Best eSIM for 🇨🇻 Cape Verde

Unit Mobile is your safest bet for an eSIM in Cape Verde. They use the CV Móvel network, which has the best coverage across the islands, especially outside the main tourist hubs like Sal and Boa Vista. You might hit dead zones on smaller islands or in very rural parts of Santiago, but for most travellers sticking to the main routes, Unit Mobile works.

A decent data pack, say 5GB for 15 days, will run you around $15-$20. You can find cheaper deals, but they often come with tiny data caps or short expiry dates. Anything less than 5GB will disappear in a week if you're using maps or streaming any video.

Activating your eSIM is usually straightforward, but here's where it gets sticky. Don't just switch to airplane mode and back. Completely power off your phone for 30 seconds, then power it back on. This forces the phone to re-register with the network properly. If you have a dual-SIM phone, especially one with Chinese hardware variants, sometimes the second SIM slot can cause issues. You might need to temporarily disable your primary physical SIM during activation. And that QR code? Scan it immediately after downloading. Some activation links expire within minutes.

The biggest country-specific gotcha is that all SIM cards, physical or eSIM, need to be registered with your passport details. Unit Mobile handles this during the eSIM purchase process, but it's a mandatory step. If you try to buy a local SIM on arrival without your passport, you'll be sent away.

Cape Verde eSIM FAQ

Which operator has the best coverage in Cape Verde? CV Móvel is the network with the widest reach across the islands, including more remote areas. Unit Mobile uses this network for their eSIMs.

How much data do I actually need? For a 1-2 week trip, aim for at least 5GB. This allows for daily map use, messaging, and occasional social media browsing.

Can I use my eSIM as a hotspot? Yes, most eSIM plans allow tethering, but check your specific plan details. Heavy hotspot use will drain your data allowance quickly.

What if my eSIM doesn't activate? Ensure your phone's software is up to date. Try the full power-off and restart method. If problems persist, contact Unit Mobile support directly.