When you are considering a property outside Europe, the first concern is almost always the same: is the country reliable? It is the right question to ask. A good property in an unstable setting remains a fragile investment. Let us look at what can be said about Cape Verde with reasonable certainty.
What we mean by “stable”
For anyone investing in property, stability means four things above all:
- institutions that work and changes of government that take place in an orderly way;
- a currency that does not lose value unpredictably;
- an economy with a leading sector and a clear direction;
- a peaceful daily life for those staying on the island.
The institutions
Cape Verde is a parliamentary democratic republic. In international analyses it is often cited as one of the most politically stable countries on the African continent, with regular elections and peaceful transfers of power.
This does not mean the rules never change: as in any country, laws and procedures can be updated. That is why legal and tax matters should always be checked with a professional at the time of purchase. You will find practical guidance in the guide documents and checks for buying a home on Boavista2000.com.
The currency
The Cape Verdean escudo has a fixed exchange rate with the euro. For an investor whose money is in euros, this is an important factor: it limits the currency fluctuations that, in other exotic destinations, can weigh heavily on the value of an investment. We explain this in detail in the guide the Cape Verdean escudo and the euro.
The economy and tourism
Tourism is the main driver of Cape Verde’s economy, and the figures are growing:
- 1,177,467 tourists in 2024;
- 1,248,052 tourists in 2025;
- +16.8% in the first quarter of 2026 (source: INE Cabo Verde);
- a government that aims to grow tourism further still.
A country that bets so clearly on tourism has an interest in maintaining a welcoming environment for visitors and investors. The data are discussed in the guide on tourism in Cape Verde.
Everyday life on Boa Vista
Boa Vista is a peaceful island, with a slow pace of life and a strong focus on tourism. The main town, Sal Rei, is the centre of daily life: shops, restaurants, services. Many Italians have been visiting for years, and some spend part of the year there.
As anywhere, the usual common-sense rules apply: do not leave valuables unattended, find out before heading to isolated areas, respect local customs and rhythms. For real life on the island, read the guide living in Cape Verde: costs, healthcare and safety on Boavista2000.com.
A stable country and a safe investment are not the same thing
A stable country is a necessary condition, but not a sufficient one. The safety of your investment also depends on:
- who builds and who sells: which projects they have already completed and how long they have been around;
- the contract: what it provides for, who has checked it, how payments are linked;
- ownership: whether the property is registered in your name or you are buying a share;
- management: who looks after the property when you are not there.
These are topics we explore in the guide on the risks of investing in Cape Verde and in registered ownership or a share.
The questions to ask whoever offers you a property
The country context is the starting point. Then you need precise questions:
- How many years have you been working on the island and which projects have you already completed?
- Can I visit a property or a development that has already been handed over?
- Who has checked the contract and what safeguards does it provide?
- Who looks after the property after the purchase?
If the answers are vague, stop. A full checklist is in what to check before buying on Boa Vista.
Our experience
Our group has been present on Boa Vista for over 25 years. In that time we have built and sold over 350 properties and completed the White Hotel, now in operation with 69 suites sold. The View, the new Apart-Hotel on the beach at Praia Cabral, grows out of this continuity.
If you would like to understand the context better before deciding, book a consultation or come and see the island on an exploratory trip.
Frequently asked questions
Is Cape Verde a democracy?
Yes, Cape Verde is a parliamentary democratic republic. It is often described as one of the most politically stable countries in Africa.
Is Boa Vista a safe island for tourists?
Boa Vista is a peaceful island with a strong focus on tourism. As in any destination, the usual precautions apply.
Is the stability of the country enough to feel reassured?
No. You also need to check the seller, the contract, how the property is registered and how it is managed. Legal and tax matters should always be checked with a professional.
Can the rules for foreigners buying property change?
As in any country, laws and procedures can be updated. That is why it is important to check the situation with a professional at the time of purchase.
Would you like to talk it through with a person?
Book a video call or message us on WhatsApp: we will answer your questions about Boa Vista and The View.
