Cape Verde walks

On the island of Santo Antão, a hike along the coast, on a trail overlooking the sea at all times, certainly the most beautiful route in Cape Verde... Fontainhas, Cruzinha, Cha de Igreja.

A superb hike along the ocean on a paved path on the island of Santo Antão in Cape Verde. A coastal hike from the small port of Tarrafal and its black sand beach to the village of Monte Trigo. This village is only accessible via this paved and very steep path, or by boat from the sea.

A beautiful hike to discover the island of Santo Antao, with no difficulty in finding your way on a wide path.

The route on the island of Fogo begins with an hour of flat walking in the caldera, followed by a descent in the shade of eucalyptus and acacia trees.

A hike with plenty of elevation gain from the Cova de Paùl crater. Can also be done uphill. A good introduction to mountain culture in Cape Verde and water management.

Climb up the cliff that closes the Ribeira das Patas cirque to reach the Norte plateau. Descend via the Bordeira do Norte trail, one of the most impressive paths in the archipelago.

Climb the Pico de Fogo volcano (2,829 m) on the island of the same name, the highest point in the Cape Verde archipelago.

This walk takes you to the Farol de Dona Amélia lighthouse, located at the westernmost point of Sao Vicente (Cape Verde). Starting from Sao Pedro, this walk begins along a magnificent white sand beach, then the path clings to the side of the rock with the ocean below until you reach the lighthouse. This is a very easy hike, which can be done as a round trip along the same path.

Hike to reach the small village of Cha de Igreja from Boca des Ambas. Magnificent panoramic views of the landscapes of Santo Antao. This hike is less well known than the coastal trail or the descent from Cova to Paul, but in my opinion, it is well worth the effort. Hike with few navigation difficulties (paved path).

This hike allows you to visit the hinterland of Santo Antao, passing through various small villages and offering a glimpse of Cape Verdean agriculture in Santo Antao, particularly the terraces clinging to the mountainside.

This varied hike leads to Pico Antonia, the highest point on Santiago, offering panoramic views of the island as well as its neighbour Fogo and its volcano, all while passing over ridges with breathtaking views of the Ribeira de Gouvada valley.

The route takes you from the coast to the volcano and its caldera above the clouds, passing through coffee plantations and a eucalyptus forest. The landscape changes and becomes more dramatic as you climb. The powerful atmosphere will not leave you indifferent and will reward your efforts.

Among the most beautiful views of Santo Antao, varied landscapes between the valley, the ocean, the neighbouring islands, plantations and the mountains in the west of the island. It's a steep descent, especially at the end, through scattered houses.

After reaching the summit of Pico do Fogo, one of the most memorable moments is the descent to Mosteiros, on the north-west coast of the island. The path winds through contrasting landscapes, passing from austere volcanic terrain to lush green crops that herald coastal life. The descent often follows a path marked by black ash, allowing you to slide slightly with each step, making the descent both athletic and fun. As you descend, the panoramic views gradually widen, revealing the Atlantic Ocean on the horizon. Mosteiros, a charming coastal town, appears as a natural reward after your efforts. The cool sea breeze helps you along the way. Descending towards Mosteiros is the perfect way to end a volcanic adventure, immersing yourself in the culture and wild beauty of Cape Verde. A right of way fee of 100 ecv per person must be paid before tackling the long descent.

In the heart of the island of Fogo stands Pico do Fogo, the highest peak in Cape Verde, rising to an altitude of 2,829 metres. This hike is much more than a simple climb: it is an immersion in a raw and fascinating landscape, born of the force of the volcano.

The Cape Verde islands are home to many tourist attractions that are not always promoted to hikers. The island of Sal, in Santa Maria, is no exception to the beach-swimming clichés. If you have a day to spare before heading to the other islands, you can still go hiking and discover the salt flats and the sky surfing beach, then return along the coast to the fish market. You'll end up back in the shopping street of Santa Maria.

This is a typical route for exploring the island of Santo Antao.