Weather in São Filipe: What to Expect by Season

São Filipe enjoys a warm tropical climate with minimal temperature swings throughout the year. The weather here is consistently pleasant, making it a reliable destination for travelers seeking sun and relaxation. The dry season dominates most of the year, while a brief rainy period arrives in late summer and early autumn.

From January to June, São Filipe experiences its driest months, with almost no rainfall and steady temperatures. The latter part of the year, particularly August and September, brings the only significant precipitation, though even then, downpours are usually short-lived. The ocean remains warm year-round, ideal for swimming and water activities.

Temperatures in São Filipe stay mild to warm, rarely straying far from the comfortable range. The coolest months, January and February, see average highs of +26.9 °C, while nights dip to around +20.8 °C. By April, daytime temperatures rise to +28.5 °C, and the warmth peaks in October with highs reaching +31 °C.

Even during the warmest months, the ocean helps moderate the heat. Water temperatures range from +24.1 °C in March to +28.7 °C in October, making it inviting for swimming at any time of year. The slight drop in temperatures from November to December signals the transition back to the drier, cooler part of the year.

São Filipe is one of the driest places in Cape Verde, with most months recording negligible rainfall. From January through June, precipitation is almost nonexistent, with totals under 1 mm. The dry spell continues until July, when occasional showers begin to appear.

The rainy season arrives in August and September, with August seeing the highest rainfall at 104.1 mm. Even then, rain typically falls in brief, intense bursts rather than prolonged downpours. By October, the wet season tapers off, and November returns to near-dry conditions, with just 1.7 mm of rain.

For a trip to São Filipe between January and June, pack lightweight, breathable clothing to stay comfortable in the dry heat. A light jacket or shawl may be useful for cooler evenings, especially in January and February, when temperatures can drop to +20.8 °C. Don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect against the strong tropical sun.

If visiting during the rainy season, from August to September, bring a compact umbrella or a light rain jacket, though heavy downpours are rare. Swimwear is essential year-round, as the ocean remains warm even in the cooler months. Comfortable sandals or water shoes will help you navigate the beaches and volcanic terrain around São Filipe.