Why visit
Praia is the capital of Cape Verde. A practical starting point for museums, food, and onward routes into the country.
Cape Verde at a glance
Country center
16.0°, -24.0°
Coast
Has coastline
Country area
4,033 km²
1,557 mi²
Country population
520k
129/km²
Subregion
Western Africa
Currency
Cape Verdean escudo (Esc)
CVE
Dial
+238
Language
Portuguese
Demonym
Cape Verdian
Internet
.cv
UN
Member state
ISO code
CV / CPV
Where in the world
16.0° · -24.0°
Cape Verde
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Click the map to open in Google Maps. Outline via svg-maps/world · CC BY 4.0
Did you know
- Cabo Verde is an archipelago of 10 volcanic islands off West Africa, uninhabited until the Portuguese arrived in 1462.
- The country's best-known musical export is morna, popularized globally by Cesária Évora, "the barefoot diva".
- Pico do Fogo, an active volcano, last erupted in 2014 and destroyed the village of Chã das Caldeiras.
Plan checks
- Choose a neighborhood first: many capitals have tourist centers that are not the best places to stay.
- Public transport passes usually beat taxis and rideshares for multi-day visits.
Explore more
Frequently asked about Praia
What currency is used in Praia?
Praia uses the Cape Verdean escudo (Esc), ISO code CVE.
What languages are spoken in Cape Verde?
The primary language is Portuguese.
What is the international calling code for Cape Verde?
The calling code is +238.
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