Current Time in CaboVerde
Time culture in Cape Verde
Time culture in Cape Verde
Relaxed "Que Morabeza" culture
The term "Que Morabeza" is deeply rooted in Cape Verdean life, which means "friendliness" and "tolerance," but it is also reflected in the sense of time. Late starts are common, and people tend to value the human relationships and atmosphere of the place rather than strictness in time.
Events and gatherings start slowly
Public events such as weddings, community events, and concerts generally do not start at the scheduled time. Visitors and organizers also act on this premise, and some delays are not considered a problem.
Daytime activities are adjusted to avoid heat
Because the climate is dry and hot, people tend to take breaks and slow down after lunch. It is common to concentrate major activities in the morning and evening hours.
Cape Verde's values regarding time
Human relationships are important, and time is flexible
This culture values human relationships in the moment more than strict punctuality. Since relationships with the person you are talking to take priority, it is acceptable for other plans to be delayed.
Emphasis on calmness over efficiency
Being busy or being chased by a schedule is not considered a virtue, and there is a value system that respects peace of mind and calmness over efficiency.
Time is recognized as something that "flows"
Rather than being bound by the hands of a clock, it is common to grasp time according to the rhythm of nature and the flow of life. There is little sense of being "chased" by time, and a mentally calm lifestyle is preferred.
Things about time that foreigners should know when traveling or moving to Cape Verde
Consider appointment times as a "guideline"
When making appointments with local people or starting events, it is necessary to act on the assumption that there will be a certain amount of delay. Delays of 10 to 30 minutes are common, and blameless attitudes should be avoided.
Public transport does not depend on timetables
Public transport such as buses and minibuses do not have fixed departure times, but depart when a certain number of passengers have gathered. Don't expect punctual operation, and it is important to schedule with ample time.
Loose adjustments are necessary in business situations
Even in business situations, people have a flexible sense of time. However, a certain degree of accuracy is required when dealing with foreign companies, so it is effective to check and remind in advance.
Interesting facts about time in Cape Verde
"Cape Verde time" is a phrase used jokingly
When someone is late in Cape Verde, people sometimes laugh and accept it by saying, "This is Cape Verde time." This expression symbolizes the cultural tolerance towards time.
Lunch breaks can last more than two hours
Lunchtime around noon is very important, and restaurants and shops sometimes take longer breaks. The afternoon silence is part of the rhythm of the region.
Cape Verdean music is also a symbol of the "slow-paced" culture
Music genres such as moravente and coladeira are characterized by gentle rhythms and poetic lyrics, reflecting the rhythm of life itself. The unhurried way of life is reflected in the music.