Is it safe to withdraw cash in Cape Verde or not?
ATMs worked fine during the day and evening, but some of the smaller islands had only one or two machines - and they didn’t always have cash. I planned withdrawals in the day just to avoid running into trouble later.
In Mindelo on São Vicente, I used a Banco Interatlântico ATM after dinner. The area was still active with music and locals socializing. Didn’t feel unsafe. Cape Verde has a relaxed energy at night, especially near central zones.
On Sal Island, most tourists used the BCA ATM inside the airport or at Santa Maria’s main square. I withdrew around 8:30 PM - no trouble, a few others queuing. Withdrawing money at night in Cape Verde is quite normal in tourist hubs, though rural areas don’t offer the same access.
In Praia, I used a Caixa Económica ATM after 9 PM near the Plateau area. The street was lively and the machine was built into a lit, guarded kiosk. Nighttime ATM safety in Cape Verde felt solid in the capital, but I wouldn’t try the same in quieter residential parts of town.