# What Ottawa Travellers Need to Know About the Latest Cabo Verde Advisory
Planning a getaway to the stunning islands of Cabo Verde? If you’re an Ottawa traveller with this West African archipelago on your radar, a recent Government of Canada advisory update deserves your attention. On March 18, 2026, Canadian officials refreshed their guidance for this popular destination, and understanding what’s changed could make the difference between a dream vacation and a challenging experience.
The current advisory places Cabo Verde at **Level 2 — Exercise a High Degree of Caution**. While this doesn’t mean you should cancel your plans, it does signal that extra preparation and heightened awareness are essential for a safe trip.
## Understanding the Risk Level
A Level 2 advisory isn’t a travel ban, but it’s a clear message that conditions in Cabo Verde require more vigilance than typical beach destinations. The primary concern driving this designation is crime, which affects various islands and communities throughout the country.
## Crime Realities Across the Islands
Criminal activity presents genuine risks, particularly on certain islands. Santiago (including the capital city of Praia and Fazenda), Sal, Maio, and Boa Vista experience notably higher crime rates. The types of incidents range from opportunistic petty theft to more serious violent crimes, especially after dark.
Pickpocketing and bag snatching are common at festivals, beaches, outdoor markets, and crowded tourist spots. Thieves frequently target visitors’ phones, cameras, and valuables. A unique vulnerability exists around hillside staircases that connect neighbourhoods in towns like Praia—criminals exploit these poorly-lit pathways to target isolated individuals.
Groups of thieves, sometimes including children, use distraction techniques to separate travellers from their belongings. Poor street lighting in many areas compounds these risks after sunset.
## Smart Preparation for Ottawa Travellers
Beyond staying alert and securing your valuables, comprehensive pre-travel preparation is crucial. This means more than just booking accommodations—Ottawa travellers should prioritize a proper travel health consultation well before departure.
Different regions present varying health risks, from food and waterborne illnesses to mosquito-transmitted diseases. A certified travel health professional can assess your specific itinerary, medical history, and planned activities to recommend appropriate vaccinations and preventive medications. They’ll also help you assemble a practical medical kit tailored to Cabo Verde’s conditions.
Travel health preparation and personal safety go hand-in-hand. When you’re healthy and equipped with the right preventive measures, you’re better positioned to stay aware, make good decisions, and respond appropriately if situations arise. Falling ill abroad can make you vulnerable and limit your ability to navigate unfamiliar environments safely.
## Be Prepared, Stay Safe
Cabo Verde offers incredible experiences—from pristine beaches to vibrant culture—but these rewards require thoughtful preparation. Don’t let preventable health issues or lack of awareness compromise your safety.
Travelling to Cabo Verde? Before you go, speak with one of our ISTM-certified travel health physicians – virtually, 7 days a week. A pre-travel consultation covers vaccines, medications, and destination-specific health risks. Book your virtual consultation at Orleans Travel Clinic Pharmacy.