Drone regulations in Cape Verde

Written by Francis Markert | Last update on 2. October 2026 | 0 comments

Cape Verde draws visitors with volcanic landscapes, dunes and long sandy beaches, ideal subjects for aerial photography. In this article, you will learn which rules the civil aviation authority of Cape Verde has set for drones and where information is scarce.

The rules of the civil aviation authority AAC

The responsible authority is the Agência de Aviação Civil (AAC). According to the AAC, you may fly a drone without a separate permit if you follow these rules:

• only outside areas with flight restrictions
• no higher than 120 meters above ground
• you are on site, no more than 100 meters from the drone, and control it directly
• only in good visibility
• at least 2,000 meters away from any airfield or landing site

Manned aircraft always have priority, and as the operator you are responsible for any damage.

Overview: Drone rules in Cape Verde

When you need a permit

If you want to fly higher than 120 meters or in an area with flight restrictions, you need written approval from the AAC. To get it, submit the “servidão aeronáutica” form at least ten working days before the flight. You will find the form and contact details on the AAC drone page.

Registration and insurance

We have not found any current rules in the AAC sources on drone registration for travelers or on mandatory insurance. The authority’s drone page dates from 2018. We do not have official confirmation on these points. Still, bring proof of drone insurance in English.

Have you flown a drone in Cape Verde? Leave us a comment below this article and tell us how entry went and whether you needed a permit. This helps everyone planning a trip to Cape Verde.

We have researched the drone rules for Cape Verde listed here to the best of our knowledge. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee that the information is correct. If you want to be on the safe side, contact the Cape Verdean civil aviation authority. You can also ask the embassy of Cape Verde in your home country for more information on the regulations. Please leave us a comment if you learn something new or have your own experience flying a drone in Cape Verde!