How to Call Cape Verde
Complete guide to dialing Cape Verde (country code +238)
Planning to connect with someone in Cape Verde? Whether you're calling for business or staying in touch with loved ones, understanding the correct dialing process is essential. This comprehensive guide on how to call Cape Verde will walk you through everything you need to know to make successful international calls to this beautiful island nation off West Africa's coast. Calling Cape Verde doesn't have to be complicated when you follow the right steps. We'll cover detailed dialing instructions from various countries, highlight common mistakes people make when placing calls, share important phone etiquette tips to ensure smooth conversations, and provide a list of useful numbers you might need during your stay or when contacting Cape Verdean services. Let's get you connected quickly and confidently.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
International Dialing Format Structure
To call Cape Verde, you need three components: your country's exit code, Cape Verde's country code (+238), and the local phone number. Cape Verde uses 7-digit phone numbers without area codes.
Basic Format: [Exit Code] + 238 + [7-digit local number]
Important Note: Cape Verde phone numbers don't use leading zeros, so you dial the local number exactly as given.
How to Dial from Different Countries
From USA or Canada:
- Dial 011 (exit code)
- Dial 238 (Cape Verde country code)
- Dial the 7-digit local number
From UK:
- Dial 00 (exit code)
- Dial 238 (Cape Verde country code)
- Dial the 7-digit local number
From Australia:
- Dial 0011 (exit code)
- Dial 238 (Cape Verde country code)
- Dial the 7-digit local number
Specific Dialing Examples
Example 1 - Calling a Cape Verde landline from USA:
To call +238 232 1500: dial 011-238-232-1500
Example 2 - Calling a Cape Verde mobile from UK:
To call +238 991 2345: dial 00-238-991-2345
Cape Verde mobile numbers typically start with 9 (including 99x and 98x prefixes).
Example 3 - Calling a Cape Verde landline from Australia:
To call +238 261 8900: dial 0011-238-261-8900
Example 4 - Calling from mobile phones internationally:
Most smartphones allow you to dial: +238-XXX-XXXX directly. Press and hold "0" to generate the "+" symbol, then enter 238 followed by the 7-digit number.
Quick Tips
- Save international numbers in your phone with the + format (+238XXXXXXX) for automatic dialing from anywhere
- Verify the complete 7-digit local number before dialing
- Consider time zone differences (Cape Verde uses CVT, UTC-1)
- Check international calling rates with your phone provider before dialing
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Common Mistakes
When calling Cape Verde, avoid these common mistakes:
1. Forgetting to drop the leading zero
Cape Verdean phone numbers often appear with a leading zero domestically (like 091 234 5678), but you must remove it when dialing internationally. Always dial +238 followed by the number without the zero.
2. Using incorrect exit codes
Many people dial "00" as the exit code, which works in most countries but not all. From the US and Canada, dial "011" instead. Using "+" is universal and works from any mobile phone, eliminating confusion.
3. Confusing the country code with an area code
Cape Verde (+238) doesn't use area codes—it's a small island nation with a unified numbering system. After dialing +238, proceed directly with the 7-digit local number.
4. Including unnecessary spaces or symbols
While spaces help readability, they can cause errors when dialing. The correct format is: +238 XXX XX XX (for reference) but dial continuously without pauses.
5. Using outdated number formats
Cape Verde updated its numbering system in recent years. Ensure you have current 7-digit numbers, not older 6-digit formats.
Cultural Etiquette
Cape Verdean phone etiquette reflects the islands' warm, relationship-focused culture while maintaining professionalism in business contexts.
When answering calls, Cape Verdeans typically greet with "Olá" (Hello) or "Bom dia/Boa tarde" (Good morning/afternoon). It's considered polite to identify yourself and ask how the other person is doing before diving into the conversation's purpose. This brief social exchange shows respect and maintains the friendly atmosphere Cape Verdeans value.
For business calls, maintain a professional yet cordial tone. Address people formally using titles like "Senhor" (Mr.) or "Senhora" (Mrs.) unless invited to use first names. Personal calls tend to be more relaxed and can last longer, as building relationships is culturally important.
The best times to call are between 9 AM and 8 PM on weekdays. Avoid calling during lunch hours (1-3 PM) when many people rest. Sundays are reserved for family time, so only make urgent calls.
Voice messages should be clear and concise, but don't be surprised if people prefer calling back rather than listening to lengthy recordings. Many Cape Verdeans find direct conversation more personal and efficient.
Remember that patience is valued—conversations may include small talk about family or health before addressing business matters. This isn't wasted time but rather essential relationship-building in Cape Verdean culture. Being rushed or abrupt can seem disrespectful and damage professional relationships.
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Emergency Numbers
Essential Emergency Numbers:
- Police: 132
- Ambulance: 130
- Fire Department: 131
- Maritime Emergency/Coast Guard: 138
- General Emergency Number: 112 (EU standard number)
Important Information:
All emergency numbers are accessible from both landlines and mobile phones free of charge. The 112 number connects to emergency services and works throughout Cape Verde, following European standards.
Most operators speak Portuguese and Cape Verdean Creole (Kriolu). English-speaking operators may be limited, so having a local phrase or translator app ready is advisable. All services operate 24/7.
Response times can vary significantly between islands and urban versus rural areas. In remote locations, expect longer wait times. Major cities like Praia and Mindelo generally have faster response capabilities than smaller islands or countryside areas.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- 102: National directory assistance for local phone numbers
- 118: International directory assistance
International Services
- 099: International operator for assisted calls and billing inquiries
Tourist Information
- (+238) 2608650: Cape Verde Tourism Board (Cabo Verde Investimentos)
- Hotels and tour operators often provide 24-hour guest assistance lines
Embassy Contacts
Contact your embassy before traveling for current numbers. Major embassies are located in Praia (Santiago Island).
Other Useful Numbers
- 1516: CV Telecom customer service
- (+238) 2604636: Amilcar Cabral International Airport (Sal)
- (+238) 2608930: Nelson Mandela International Airport (Praia)
Weather & Marine Information
- (+238) 2615727: National meteorological service for marine and aviation forecasts
Keep these numbers accessible throughout your stay for smooth travel assistance.
Tips for Calling Cape Verde
When calling Cape Verde, remember the country operates on Cape Verde Time (CVT), which is UTC-1 year-round with no daylight saving time changes. Calculate the time difference carefully before dialing to avoid early morning or late evening calls.
For personal calls, aim for evenings between 6-9 PM CVT when people are home and relaxed. Business calls work best during standard office hours: Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM, with many businesses closing for lunch between noon and 2 PM.
Always schedule business calls in advance via email to demonstrate professionalism and accommodate both parties' schedules. Avoid calling during major holidays including Independence Day (July 5), Christmas, New Year's, and municipal festival days, which vary by island.
Consider off-peak calling times (typically evenings and weekends) if using international calling plans to reduce costs. Peak business hours often mean busier lines and shorter conversations.
For clear communication, speak slowly and confirm important details via follow-up email. Portuguese is the official language, though Cape Verdean Creole is widely spoken. Many business professionals speak English, but confirming language preferences beforehand ensures smoother conversations.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Cape Verde is +238. You need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Cape Verde from any country. The country code is essential for routing your call correctly to Cape Verde's telephone network.
To dial Cape Verde from your cell phone, start with the plus sign (+) or your country's international access code, then dial 238 (Cape Verde's country code), followed by the 7-digit local phone number. For example: +238 XXX XXXX.
Cape Verde phone numbers do not use a leading zero in their local number format. Simply dial +238 followed by the 7-digit local number. There is no trunk prefix to remove when calling Cape Verde from abroad.
The cheapest way to call Cape Verde is using ZippCall, which offers affordable pay-as-you-go international calling rates. With ZippCall, you can call from your web browser, iPhone, or Android device with no contracts, no subscriptions, and no hidden fees—just transparent, low-cost rates for calling Cape Verde.
In Cape Verde, the main emergency numbers are: 130 for police, 131 for fire services, and 132 for medical emergencies/ambulance. These numbers can be dialed free of charge from any phone within Cape Verde for urgent assistance.
Yes, you can call Cape Verde directly from your web browser using ZippCall. Simply visit the ZippCall website, enter the Cape Verde phone number with the +238 country code, and make your call online without needing to download any software.
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