The departure point is the picturesque little village of Chã das Caldeiras, nestled in the caldera. The trail climbs rapidly up steep slopes, offering spectacular panoramic views of the valley and the volcano's secondary cones. The ascent takes about 4 to 6 hours depending on your pace, and each stage reveals a new face of Pico do Fogo. The higher you climb, the more crumbly and hot the ground becomes underfoot. The summit reveals an ocean of clouds below. The descent is done by sliding down the volcanic ash, an experience that is both fun and exhilarating.
Climb the Pico de Fogo volcano
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.
Details
Creation:
Last update:
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Activity: Walking -
Distance: 5.44 mi -
Average duration: 5h 30 -
Difficulty: Difficult -
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Back to start: Yes -
Ascent: + 3,465 ft -
Descent: - 3,458 ft -
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Highest point: 9,150 ft -
Lowest point: 5,659 ft
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Country:
Cape Verde
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City:
São Filipe -
Start/End: N 14.965403° / W 24.367112° -
Hour-by-hour weather
Description of the walk
Waypoints
- S/E : mi 0 - alt. 5,686 ft
- 1 : mi 2.87 - alt. 9,114 ft - Pico de Fogo
- S/E : mi 5.44 - alt. 5,692 ft
Notes
Wear high-top shoes or trousers to prevent small pieces from getting into your shoes.
Other walks in the area
Climb the Fogo volcano
Visorando Member5.37 mi
+3,465 ft
-3,468 ft
5h 30
Difficult
Departure from São Filipe (Cape Verde)
Climb the Pico de Fogo volcano (2,829 m) on the island of the same name, the highest point in the Cape Verde archipelago.
Cha das Caldeiras - Mosteiros
6.90 mi
+305 ft
-4,764 ft
3h 25
Difficult
Departure from São Filipe (Cape Verde)
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.
Descent to Mosteiros
5.89 mi
+331 ft
-5,449 ft
3h 00
Very difficult
Departure from Mosteiros (Cape Verde)
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.
Ascent from Mosteiros to Cha da Caldeiras
8.14 mi
+6,109 ft
-489 ft
9h 05
Very difficult
Departure from Mosteiros (Cape Verde)
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.
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