Between nature and authenticity: Cape Verde in a different light
In summary
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Sports
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Duration8 days
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LevelBeginner
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DestinationAfrica / Cape Verde
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AgeFrom 16 - 75 years
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CO₂-Emissions125.35 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
English
Spanish
German
In a few words
Let yourself be captivated by an authentic immersion in the heart of Cape Verde , a destination where time seems to stand still between the sea and the mountains . This trip emphasizes a relaxed pace of life and complete disconnection through walks accessible to all. You will explore the verdant valleys of the island of Santo Antão , a true Garden of Eden nestled in the middle of the Atlantic.
The route winds its way between traditional villages and terraced fields, offering spectacular ocean views . Beyond the landscapes, the heart of this journey lies in the encounters with the locals . You'll share special moments during a local cooking workshop before returning to the comfort of warm and authentic accommodations .
This getaway is a true invitation to slow down . Between unspoiled nature , cultural heritage, and moments of relaxation, each stage has been carefully designed to offer you a soothing and emotionally rich experience. An ideal itinerary to savor the famous Cape Verdean morabeza in complete serenity.
The highlights
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Easy and scenic hikes
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Local immersion
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Varied and balanced experience
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
The expert's opinion
This circuit is accessible to everyone. The walks take place on easy trails, at a leisurely pace, with little elevation gain and no technical difficulty. Walking times are moderate, generally between 2 and 4 hours per day, with regular breaks to enjoy the scenery. An ideal experience for gently discovering the treasures of Cape Verde.
In figures
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 3h
- Average daily elevation gain: 310 m
- Average daily descent: 330 m
Management
Led by an experienced local guide with in-depth knowledge of the region, culture, and trails, this trip offers a warm and welcoming experience. They adapt to the group's pace and share their expertise throughout the stay, ensuring an authentic and stress-free adventure.
Program
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Arrival in Cape Verde: São Vicente Island
- Transportation Minibus - 00h15 - 10km
- Accommodation B&B
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Upon arrival at Cesária Évora Airport , your guide will be waiting to take you to your hotel in Mindelo . Depending on your flight time, you will have some free time to begin exploring the city or enjoy a relaxing swim at Praia da Laginha beach. In the evening, you will meet your guide for a pleasant welcome dinner, an opportunity to get acquainted and learn about your itinerary.
Day 1 -
Santo Antão Island: Walk to the Forquinha Pass – Chã de Morte
- Transportation Minibus - 00h40 - 18km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Positive elevation gain 300 m
- Negative elevation 300 m
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
In the morning, transfer to the port at 7:30 am to board the boat to Santo Antão (approximately a 1-hour crossing). Upon arrival, a driver will meet you and take you to Alto Mira, the starting point of your hike, in about 30 minutes.
You will discover unique semi-arid landscapes, blending oasis crops and impressive basalt formations. The walk continues downhill to the village of Chã de Morte, where you will spend the night in a family-run guesthouse, in an authentic and friendly atmosphere.
Day 2 -
Hiking in the Paúl Valley
- Transportation Boat - 01h15 - 35km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h30
- Positive elevation gain 450 m
- Negative elevation 550 m
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
Early morning transfer to the Paúl Valley, the true garden of Cape Verde. You will follow a verdant route through one of the most beautiful valleys in the archipelago, renowned for its lush vegetation.
As you hike, you will discover many local crops: sugar cane (used for the production of traditional rum, grogue), banana trees, cassava, coffee trees and many more.
At the end of the day, visit a traditional distillery with demonstration and tasting of grogue.
Lunch at Tania's (Sombra e Chavena restaurant).
Day 3 -
A gourmet immersion in a Cape Verdean quinta
- Transportation Plane - 00h15 - 8km
- Activity Autre
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After a short drive, you will arrive in the village of Forrador. You will participate in a cooking workshop at a charming quinta nestled in the heart of the verdant Ribeira Grande valley.
This immersive experience will allow you to discover local flavors by preparing a meal using fresh produce: natural fruit juices, papaya jam and traditional cheese, all in a warm and friendly atmosphere.
At the end of the activity, transfer to your accommodation in Ponta do Sol, a fishing village.
Day 4 -
The coastal path - Cruzinha – Ponta do Sol
- Transportation Boat - 00h40 - 12km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Positive elevation gain 500 m
- Negative elevation 500 m
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
After breakfast, departure towards the village of Cruzinha, the starting point of your hike. You will follow a magnificent coastal path, carved into the mountain and offering spectacular views of the ocean.
Along the way, you'll pass through several picturesque villages such as Formiguinhas, Corvo, and Fontainhas, famous for its colorful houses perched on the cliffside. The hike ends in Ponta do Sol, a charming fishing village, where you'll spend the night.
Day 5 -
Loop in the Ribeira da Torre valley – Vinha waterfall – Xoxo – Return to Mindelo
- Transportation Minibus - 01h30 - 36km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Positive elevation gain 300 m
- Negative elevation 300 m
- Accommodation B&B
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
After a short transfer by vehicle, you reach the stunning Ribeira da Torre valley, a deep volcanic valley surrounded by impressive cliffs and spectacular peaks.
During this hike, you will discover rural life and local cultures amidst lush landscapes. Crossing fields of sugarcane and yams, you will enjoy the natural beauty of the valley, with a highlight being a visit to the magnificent Vinha waterfall.
After the hike, you will take the spectacular Corde road, winding along the island's heights. You will pass by the Cova crater, an ancient volcano now cultivated and surrounded by verdant landscapes.
Continue to Porto Novo, then board the boat for the return trip to São Vicente (departure around 4 pm). Upon arrival in Mindelo, you will be met by our team and transferred to your accommodation.
Day 6 -
Sao Vicente Island Tour: Mindelo – Monte Verde – Baía das Gatas – Calhau
- Transportation Minibus - 05h - 40km
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 0h45
- Accommodation B&B
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
Departure from Mindelo around 9:30 am for a day exploring the island of São Vicente. You will begin with the ascent of Monte Verde, the island's highest point, offering exceptional panoramic views of Mindelo and the surrounding islands.
You will then continue to Baía das Gatas, famous for its peaceful bay and much loved by locals. The road continues along the magnificent Praia Grande beach to the fishing village of Calhau.
On site, there is the possibility of taking a short walk of about 45 minutes around an old volcano by the sea, discovering unique volcanic landscapes (solidified lavas, impressive natural formations).
Return via the Calhau oasis, where local cultures contrast with the island's arid landscapes. At the end of the day, return to Mindelo.
Day 7 -
Return flight
- Transportation Boat - 00h15 - 10km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
After breakfast, and depending on your flight schedule, you will have some free time to enjoy the city's atmosphere one last time or do some souvenir shopping. Afterwards, a transfer will take you to the airport for your return flight to France. (Flight not included)
Day 8
Accommodation
A small, family-run guesthouse located in the village of Chã de Morte, in the Ribeira das Patas region. This simple and welcoming accommodation offers a warm and authentic atmosphere, ideal for travelers wishing to discover the rural life of this part of the island.
- Single room
- Double room
- Twin room
- Triple room
The property offers simple but comfortable facilities. Guests have access to Wi-Fi, hot water in the bathrooms, as well as common areas and a terrace where they can enjoy the peace and quiet of the village and the surrounding landscapes.
Meals are generally prepared on-site using local and seasonal produce. The cuisine is home-style and traditional, showcasing Cape Verdean specialties in a friendly atmosphere.
It offers comfortable and well-equipped rooms, providing a pleasant setting for visitors wishing to explore the region. The rooms generally feature a private bathroom, a balcony, air conditioning, a television, and Wi-Fi access, ensuring guests' comfort and relaxation during their stay.
- Single room
- Double room
- Twin room
The hotel offers a variety of amenities and services for guests' comfort. These include a reception area, Wi-Fi access, a relaxation area, a terrace with sea views, and a bar. The hotel also provides services such as visitor assistance and common areas where guests can unwind in a peaceful and pleasant environment.
Hotel Paul Mar features a restaurant where guests can enjoy their meals. The restaurant serves breakfast as well as other meals throughout the day. Visitors can discover Cape Verdean cuisine and some international specialties, offering a diverse culinary experience during their stay.
- Single room
- Double room
- Twin room
- Triple room
Access
Go to the starting point
Price details
The price includes
- Accommodation as indicated in the program (based on a shared double room)
- Meals listed as "included" in the itinerary
- The ground transfers with driver indicated in the itinerary
- The maritime transfers indicated in the program
- The activities listed in the itinerary
- A French-speaking tour guide from Day 1 to Day 7
The price does not include
- International flights
- Meals not included in the program (from €10 to €18 per meal)
- Drinks (water and others)
- Tips
- The optional single supplement (€210/person)
- Personal expenses
- Visa fees (€30/person)
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
The Adilson team
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