WHAT OUR LOCAL FILM FIXERS HAVE TO SAY ABOUT FILMING ON LOCATION IN CAPE VERDE
Cabo Verde is a group of ten volcanic islands off the coast of West Africa and is a breath-taking location for filming. With its unique blend of African, European, and Brazilian cultures, stunning landscapes, and many pristine beaches, offering endless opportunities for filmmakers. From the rugged mountains to the golden beaches making the archipelago boasts diverse landscapes perfect for any type of film production. The unique landscape offers an abundance of filming locations. The archipelagos volcanic origin has resulted in stunning features such as rugged mountains, lush valleys, and dramatic coastlines. The crystal- clear waters surrounding the islands also provide a perfect setting for any type of film production.
*Praia Santa Monica- located on the southernmost tip of Boa Vista. This beach is known for its crystal- clear waters, fine white sand, and volcanic rock formations.
*Boa Vista- provides a combination of vast deserts, towering sand dunes, lush green valleys, and rocky cliffs.
*Sao Domingos- a picturesque town that boasts the Cova crater and the Fontainhas valley. The traditional architecture in the town provide an authentic setting for film production.
Safety & Travel
Cape Verde is a relatively safe place to visit as the country has remained a peaceful and safe place with an almost non-existent incidence of crime. No extra precautions to travel safely need to be taken, just the same as anywhere else in the world.
*Note: A major theft area in Praia is the Sucupira Market, where visitors should watch out for pickpockets and other thefts. These criminals work in groups, stay vigilant when going to crowded areas.
TAX INCENTIVES & CREDITS
At present there are no tax incentives for foreign commercials or films shooting in Cape Verde.
WHAT OUR LOCAL FILM FIXERS HAVE TO SAY ABOUT FILM PERMITS ,VISAS AND WORK PERMITS
General film permits
The Ministry of Culture is the organization that issues film permits, taking between 15-20 days to be issued. Documentation required for permits application : A letter addressed to the DGCS (Direção Geral da Comunicação Social), stating the purpose of the shoot, the locations-island, city and filming dates; copy of the passports of all crew members; list of all equipment entering the country; a letter stating the focal person in Cape Verde.
Visas & Work Permits
Visas can either be obtained from your closest Cape Verde embassy or consulate, or in person on arrival at any of the Cape Verde international airports, visas are valid for up to 90 days. Most passport holders are required to obtain a visa to enter Cape Verde.
Cost & Financing
Locations, local talent and support crew are inexpensive but since little to no filming infrastructure exists all key crew and equipment must be brought in from abroad.
WHAT OUR LOCAL FILM FIXERS HAVE TO SAY ABOUT FILM CREWS, EQUIPMENT AND TALENT
Film equipment
Bring in all camera, grip and lighting equipment from abroad.
Film crew & talent
Crews – Cape Verde has a very small pool of local directors, directors of photography and stills photographers. Key crew should be brought in from abroad.
Talent – day rates and buyouts are negotiable. Cape Verdeans are predominantly mestizos, a people of mixed African and European decent.
Required information / documentation for application of a local Drone
Drone usage is governed by the Cape Verde Civil Aviation Authority (AAC). One of the primary requirements for flying a drone in Cape Verde is obtaining a permit from the AAC
