The best hikes in Santiago and Fogo

Trekking in the Ribeira Grande valley and exploring a verdant valley dotted with fruit trees such as banana, papaya, mango, and avocado trees, among others. The trek ends in the old town, where you will visit the main historical monuments.

Today, you will climb the highest point on Santiago Island, Mount Pico Antonio, at 1400 meters above sea level. The trail begins at the entrance to Monte Txota Natural Park and winds through a eucalyptus and pine forest to the base of the mountain. From there, the ascent begins on a steeper and rather demanding path, with a very sloping section leading to the summit. The summit offers a truly breathtaking panoramic view of the island.

The Serra Malagueta Natural Park is considered the largest green space on the island, offering a variety of trails. This particular trail begins inside the park, climbs through dense pine forest to its highest point at 1070 meters, and then descends through the Gomgom Valley, which offers panoramic views of the island. The trail then passes through the small village of Gomgom and ends in Hortelão.

Depending on the available schedule, your flight may be in the morning or afternoon. Upon arrival on the island, your guide will take you to the coastal village located an hour away on the island's coast, at the foot of the large volcano.

The first stage of the ascent of the volcano begins at an altitude of 400 meters in the rural village of Pai Antonio and crosses the large coffee and banana plantations, as well as the island's orange groves. The second part continues inside the Monte Velha Natural Park, one of the largest green spaces in the country, dense with a vast expanse of acacia, pine, eucalyptus, and other endemic plants, leading to the entrance of the Fogo Natural Park inside the volcano's crater at an altitude of 1,700 meters, with lava flows from 27 different eruptions, and continues to its new accommodation.

Considered one of the most challenging hikes in the archipelago, the Pico do Fogo trek begins in the village of Cha das Caldeiras, located at 1700 m, and traverses vineyards and apple orchards, as well as lava flows from recent eruptions, reaching an altitude of 2000 m without difficulty. From here, the ascent to the summit begins, a steep, cold, and demanding trail, but one that rewards those who reach the top with the most breathtaking views. The return trail offers a different experience, winding through the lapilli and volcanic ash landscape.

Free day at your disposal and flight to Santiago Island.

International Flight