Is Tarrafal Tap Water Safe To Drink?
No, it's not advisable to drink the tap water.
Tap water in Tarrafal, Cape Verde, is generally treated but may not consistently meet international drinking water standards. Boiling is recommended.
Local reports indicate occasional contamination risks due to aging infrastructure and intermittent supply. Bottled water is commonly used for drinking.
Visitors and residents should use water purification methods or consume bottled water to avoid waterborne illnesses, following health advisories from local authorities.
Last checked: 2025-08-16
Source of Water in Tarrafal, Cabo Verde
Tap water in Tarrafal, Cape Verde, primarily comes from groundwater sources such as wells and boreholes. These tap into underground aquifers.
Supplementary sources include surface water from small reservoirs and catchment areas, although availability is limited due to the dry climate.
Desalination plants contribute to the water supply in some parts of Cape Verde, helping meet demand during dry periods and reduce reliance on groundwater.
Tarrafal Drinking Fountains
Public drinking fountains in Tarrafal, Cape Verde, may not consistently provide safe water due to potential contamination and maintenance issues. Caution is advised.
Water quality varies, and fountains might not be regularly tested or disinfected, increasing risk of waterborne illnesses for users.
Using bottled or treated water is recommended over public fountains to ensure safety, especially for tourists or individuals with sensitive health.
Drinking Water Map
Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Tarrafal. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions.
Nearby Places
- Praia
(46 km)
- Freetown
(1370 km)
- Maspalomas
(1623 km)
- Playa del Ingles
(1623 km)
- Tenerife
(1656 km)
- Monrovia
(1730 km)
About the Author

Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.
I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.
Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job — it's something I truly care about.