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Cape Verde

Plan your dives in Cape Verde

✅ 32 dive sites • 📸 0 photos • 🗓 Best months: April to November, due to calm seas and increased marine activity.

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About Diving in Cape Verde
Cape Verde, an archipelago off the coast of West Africa, offers a captivating scuba diving experience characterized by its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life. The islands boast a unique blend of tropical and Mediterranean climates, providing an ideal setting for underwater exploration. Divers can expect to encounter everything from volcanic underwater landscapes to vibrant coral gardens. Typical dive sites include shipwrecks teeming with life and dramatic rock formations. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, with local dive operators offering a range of services for both beginners and seasoned divers. The best time to dive is from April to November, when conditions are optimal and marine life is most abundant. An interesting fact about Cape Verde is its position as a migratory route for humpback whales, offering divers a chance to witness these majestic creatures during the right season.
Diving Overview
Cape Verde offers diverse diving opportunities, with a mix of volcanic topography, shipwrecks, and coral reefs. The warm waters and rich marine biodiversity provide an exciting experience for divers of all levels.
Diving Conditions
  • Water Temperatures: 22°C to 27°C (72°F to 81°F)
  • Visibility: 15 to 30 meters (50 to 100 feet)
  • Currents: Generally mild, but can vary by site
  • Skill Level: Suitable for all levels, with some sites recommended for advanced divers due to currents or depth.
Top Dive Sites
  1. Santo Antão (Northwest Cape Verde)
    Dramatic underwater topography with canyons and caves.
  2. Santa Maria (Sal Island)
    Famous for its vibrant coral gardens and schools of fish.
  3. Buracona (Sal Island)
    Known for its stunning underwater tunnels and blue eye phenomenon.
Marine Life
Divers can expect to see a variety of species including parrotfish, moray eels, barracudas, and occasionally, sea turtles and dolphins. Humpback whales may be spotted during their migration season.
Reef Type
Fringing and patch reefs
Reef Condition
Generally healthy, but some areas show signs of stress from climate change and human activity.
Conservation
Cape Verde has several marine protected areas, and local regulations are in place to conserve marine biodiversity. Divers are encouraged to follow sustainable diving practices to protect the delicate ecosystems.
Best Time to Dive
April to November, due to calm seas and increased marine activity.
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