Santo Antão Island: Hiking at your own pace and breathtaking landscapes
In summary
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Sports
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Duration12 days
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LevelConfirmed
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DestinationCape Verde / Santo Antão
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AgeFrom 16 - 80 years
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CO₂-Emissions177.31 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
In a few words
Embark on a self-guided hiking adventure in Cape Verde , combining cultural immersion with the exploration of spectacular landscapes. This trip first takes you to São Vicente , a lively and authentic island, where you'll discover the vibrant atmosphere of Mindelo , with its music, colorful markets, and colonial heritage.
Next stop: Santo Antão , a true paradise for hikers, where you'll spend 8 days independently exploring carefully planned routes. Between verdant valleys , terraced fields , isolated villages, and mountain panoramas , each stage reveals a preserved and contrasting natural landscape.
The hikes, accessible and varied, allow you to progress at your own pace while fully enjoying the richness of the landscapes and the local welcome.
Back in São Vicente, enjoy two days of relaxation to extend the experience, explore more of the island or simply unwind after this immersion in the heart of the archipelago.
A balanced trip combining trekking , discovery and freedom, ideal for escaping to the heart of authentic Cape Verdean life.
The highlights
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Spectacular landscapes: Mountains, verdant valleys and breathtaking panoramas
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Total freedom: Explore the island at your own pace with personalized itineraries
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Cultural immersion: Discover traditional villages and authentic local life
Photos
Sport
Level
Hiking / Trekking
In figures
Trekking
- Average duration/day: 5h
- Average distance/day: 15 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 597 m
- Average daily descent: 841 m
- Exposed Passages: Yes
Management
This tour is organized as a self-guided hike. Participants are provided with a detailed route book, the necessary maps, and GPS tracks (GPX) to follow the routes independently.
The hikes mainly take place on traditional paved trails and mountain paths, sometimes with significant ascents and descents. A good level of fitness is recommended to fully enjoy the trip.
Local transfers, ferry crossings, and accommodations are arranged in advance to make your trip easier. Luggage can be transported between certain accommodations depending on the stage of the journey.
Walking times and distances are given as a guide and may vary depending on individual pace, weather conditions or trail conditions.
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 International Airport, you will be greeted by our team. Transfer to your hotel in Mindelo. Enjoy your evening relaxing or exploring the surrounding area at your own pace.
Day 1 -
Mindelo – Porto Novo (Santo Antão island) – Tope de Coroa – Chã de Feijoal
- Transportation Minibus - 01h20 - 37km
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 14 km
- Positive elevation gain 550 m
- Negative elevation 715 m
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Early morning transfer to the port of Mindelo . After an approximately one-hour ferry crossing to Porto Novo, on the island of Santo Antão, transfer to the western end of the island to the Norte plateau , a spectacular territory characterized by its arid landscapes and intensely coloured volcanic reliefs.
The hike begins on narrow goat paths, remnants of the region's traditional pastoral activity. The trail climbs gradually through a volcanic landscape to the Tope de Coroa crater , the island's highest point. From the summit, the views of the volcanic formations and the vastness of the landscape are breathtaking.
After reaching the heights, the path then descends onto slopes of volcanic gravel and reaches the bottom of a small valley leading to the peaceful hamlet of Chã de Feijoal .
You will spend the night at Casa Tony , hosted by a local farmer involved in the village cooperative. The accommodation is simple and authentic, offering a wonderful immersion into the rural life of this remote region of Santo Antão.
Day 2 -
Hiking: Chã de Feijoal – Ribeira das Patas – Alto Mira
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Distance 15 km
- Positive elevation gain 550 m
- Negative elevation 1380 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Starting from the small village of Chã de Feijoal , the trail quickly reaches the cliffs that mark the edge of the Norte plateau. From these heights, sweeping panoramas open up over a large part of the island and several regions that will be crossed over the next few days.
The route then follows an impressive paved path that descends along the cliffs towards Chã de Morte . After a short section on a paved track, the route continues on a narrower path that gradually climbs towards the Forquinha pass , through a spectacular landscape dominated by volcanic rock formations.
Despite this rugged, rocky environment, the presence of natural springs allows for small cultivated areas, creating touches of greenery in the heart of the mountains. In the afternoon, the trail finally reaches the Alto Mira region, renowned for its agricultural terraces and rural landscapes. Overnight stay in a guesthouse.
Day 3 -
Hike: Alto Mira – Salto Preto – Lagoa plateau – Lagoinha
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 16 km
- Positive elevation gain 670 m
- Negative elevation 1230 m
- Accommodation Staying with a local resident
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Early in the morning, the trail crosses the last cultivated and irrigated areas of Alto Mira before beginning the ascent of the impressive cliffs of Salto Preto . Once at the top, the route continues its progress through lightly wooded hills, then descends towards the Lagoa plateau , following the edge of an ancient collapsed crater where corn and beans are grown during the rainy season.
The hike then follows a panoramic ridge : to the left stretches the northern slope of the island, greener and inhabited, with its cultivated valleys; to the right appear the southern slopes, drier and steeper, marked by a distinctly more arid landscape.
The trail eventually leads to the small village of Lagoinha , where you will spend the night with a local family .
Day 4 -
Hiking: Lagoa – Caibros
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 11 km
- Positive elevation gain 300 m
- Negative elevation 200 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
The region is renowned for its traditional agriculture : the inhabitants cultivate maize and beans in the fertile soils of the ancient volcanic crater, particularly during the rainy season.
From Lagoa, the trail heads towards the small rural hamlet of Compainha , following paths used daily by the inhabitants and farmers of the region.
After Compainha, the route begins its descent towards Ribeirão , following a scenic path that winds along the mountainside. As you progress, the landscape gradually becomes greener as you approach the valley, where agricultural terraces and small houses appear.
The hike ends in the peaceful village of Caibros , a traditional farming community surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery and terraced fields .
Day 5 -
Hiking: Caibros – Mocho – Chã de Igreja
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Distance 14 km
- Positive elevation gain 600 m
- Negative elevation 800 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation B&B
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
The hike begins in the rural village of Caibros, following traditional mountain paths used by local farmers. The trail gradually ascends to Boca de Ambas as Ribeiras , a panoramic pass offering stunning views of the surrounding valleys and rugged terrain.
From this point, the route continues towards Mocho , passing through small cultivated areas and a few isolated houses that bear witness to the traditional rural life of Santo Antão Island. The landscape alternates between rocky slopes and verdant terraces.
The final part of the hike descends into the beautiful Chã de Igreja valley, where the landscape becomes greener and more fertile, leading to this peaceful village on the island's north coast. Overnight stay in a guesthouse.
Day 6 -
Hike: Chã de Igreja – Cruzinha – Ponta do Sol
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 17 km
- Positive elevation gain 650 m
- Negative elevation 650 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation 4-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
After breakfast, you'll set off on a pleasant coastal hike along a sunlit path carved into the mountainside. The route passes through the villages of Formiguinhas , Corvo, and Fontainhas , the latter being a famous hilltop village.
The walk then continues to Ponta do Sol , a fishing village located on the north coast of the island, where you will spend the night.
Day 7 -
Hike: Xoxo – Cova Crater – Paul Valley
- Transportation Minibus - 00h15 - 8km
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Distance 14 km
- Positive elevation gain 1000 m
- Negative elevation 1000 m
- Exposed passages Yes
- Accommodation B&B
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
The day begins with a short transfer from Ponta do Sol to the Ribeira da Torre valley , to the village of Xoxo , the starting point of the hike.
The trail climbs gradually towards the impressive Cova crater , an ancient volcanic crater located in the highlands of Santo Antão Island. During the ascent, the path crosses cultivated terraces and small rural hamlets , offering superb views of the surrounding valleys.
Upon reaching the summit, the landscape opens up to the spectacular Cova crater . The trail then begins an impressive descent towards the verdant Paul Valley , winding through terraces cultivated with sugarcane, banana trees and other crops, and passing through several traditional villages before reaching the valley floor.
Day 8 -
Hiking: Paul Valley – Boca de Figueiral – return to Mindelo
- Transportation Minibus - 00h45 - 40km
- Activity Trekking
- Duration of the activity 5h
- Distance 15 km
- Positive elevation gain 450 m
- Negative elevation 750 m
- Accommodation 4-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
The hike starts directly from your accommodation in the Paul Valley. Following small paths through the valley, the route crosses lush terraces of sugar cane, banana trees and other tropical crops , as well as several traditional villages where local life unfolds at a peaceful pace.
Along the way, you will enjoy magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and the agricultural landscapes that make the Paul Valley famous.
The hike ends at Boca de Figueiral , where you will visit a traditional grogue distillery , the local Cape Verdean rum, to discover the different stages of its production and to taste it.
After the visit, a transfer along the scenic coastal road takes you to Porto Novo to catch the 4:00 PM ferry to Mindelo. Upon arrival on the island of São Vicente, you will be transferred to your accommodation.
Day 9 -
Free days in Mindelo
- Accommodation 4-star hotel
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Enjoy this day at your own pace by strolling through the colorful streets of Mindelo or relaxing on Laginha beach, located just a few minutes' walk from your accommodation.
You can also choose from several optional activities (not included):
- Traditional fishing with the fishermen of the village of São Pedro
- Swim with the turtles in the crystal-clear waters of São Pedro
- Cultural tour of Mindelo city centre to discover its architecture and main monuments
- Musical workshop to explore the rhythms and sounds typical of Cape Verde
This flexible day allows you to organize your program according to your wishes and to fully enjoy the atmosphere of the city, the beach and the local culture.
Days 10 to 11 -
Return flight from São Vicente
- Transportation Minibus - 00h15 - 10km
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
This morning, after breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport according to your flight schedule for your return journey. Enjoy your last moments in Mindelo and take home wonderful memories of your stay in Cape Verde.
Day 12
Accommodation
A small, welcoming guesthouse, appreciated for its simplicity and warm hospitality. The establishment offers a peaceful atmosphere, well integrated into its natural, rural surroundings. The rooms are clean and comfortable, providing ideal conditions for rest and relaxation after a day of hiking.
- Single room
- Double room
- Twin room
- Triple room
The accommodation offers simple and authentic facilities, suited to the rural environment. The rooms provide essential comfort for a stopover on a hike. The bathrooms are shared and do not have hot water, and Wi-Fi is not available, allowing guests to fully enjoy the peace and quiet of the location.
Meals are prepared on-site using local and seasonal produce, in a simple and family-friendly atmosphere. The kitchen typically offers traditional Cape Verdean dishes, allowing guests to discover local flavors in a convivial setting.
Residencial Amadeu Ramos guest house is located in Alto Mira, in the municipality of Porto Novo, on the island of Santo Antão, approximately 17.7 km from the city center.
This welcoming guesthouse is ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful stay. It is particularly suitable for nature lovers, families, and those wishing to enjoy an authentic countryside experience. Its tranquil location and friendly atmosphere make it a pleasant place to relax and admire the surrounding landscapes of Santo Antão.
- Single room
- Double room
- Twin room
- Triple room
The rooms are simple, clean, and comfortable, suitable for a stopover on a hike. They generally have single or double beds, a private bathroom with hot water, and basic furnishings. Some rooms offer views of the Alto Mira valley and the surrounding landscapes.
Guests can enjoy Wi-Fi, hot water in the bathrooms, and a small swimming pool, ideal for relaxing after a day of hiking. Common areas and a terrace also allow guests to enjoy the peace and quiet and the natural surroundings of the Alto Mira valley.
Meals are prepared on-site using local and seasonal produce. The cuisine is simple and home-style, inspired by traditional Cape Verdean flavors. Meals are generally served in a convivial atmosphere, offering an opportunity to share a meal with the guests.
Casa Lela is a small guesthouse located in the village of Lagoa, on the eastern plateau of Santo Antão Island. The accommodation is run by Lela, president of the local Lagoa association, who is very involved in the village's community development.
- Single room
- Double room
- Twin room
- Triple room
The rooms are simple, clean and functional , suitable for a stopover on a hike. They generally have single or double beds and basic furniture, offering the necessary comfort to rest after a day's walk.
The accommodation offers simple and welcoming facilities. Guests have access to comfortable rooms, common areas, and a terrace where they can enjoy the peace and quiet of the village and the surrounding landscapes.
Meals are prepared on-site using local and seasonal produce, often sourced from the plateau's farms. The cuisine is home-style and traditional, offering travelers the opportunity to discover Cape Verdean flavors in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Casa Zeca Santos is a family-run guesthouse located in the village of Caibros, on the island of Santo Antão. Known for its warm welcome and authentic atmosphere, it offers simple but comfortable accommodation.
Travelers can enjoy a peaceful rural setting, surrounded by mountains and agricultural terraces typical of the region. The house also offers homemade meals using local produce in a friendly atmosphere, allowing visitors to discover the daily life and traditions of the island.
- Single room
- Double room
- Twin room
- Triple room
The rooms are simple, clean and comfortable, suitable for a stopover on a hike. They generally have single or double beds, a private bathroom with hot water, and basic furniture.
Offers simple yet comfortable facilities for travelers. Rooms have private bathrooms with hot water, and the property also provides Wi-Fi access. Common areas and a terrace allow guests to relax and enjoy the peaceful village setting and surrounding landscapes.
Meals are prepared on-site using local and seasonal produce. The cuisine is home-style and traditional, showcasing Cape Verdean specialties. Meals are generally served in a friendly atmosphere, offering travelers the opportunity to share a pleasant moment with the hosts.
Casa Adilsa is a comfortable and welcoming guesthouse offering well-appointed rooms with private or shared bathrooms. Guests can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and experience local life, with friendly staff available to help and offer advice. This accommodation is ideal for travelers seeking comfort and an authentic experience during their stay.
- Single room
- Double room
- Twin room
- Triple room
The rooms at Casa Adilsa are comfortable, clean, and well-appointed, offering a pleasant setting to relax after a day of exploring or hiking. They generally feature single or double beds, functional furniture, and good natural light.
The guesthouse offers simple and comfortable amenities for a pleasant stay. The rooms are well-appointed and have either private or shared bathrooms. Guests can also enjoy common areas and a terrace for relaxation. The property provides a friendly atmosphere and attentive service, allowing guests to fully enjoy their stay.
Meals are generally prepared on-site using local and seasonal produce. The cuisine is simple and home-style, showcasing the flavors of Cape Verdean gastronomy. Meals are served in a warm and welcoming atmosphere, offering an opportunity to share a meal with the hosts and other travelers.
The Tiduca Hotel is a 4-star property located in Ponta do Sol. It offers guests a terrace, a shared lounge, a restaurant, and a bar. The hotel also features a fitness center and offers air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi and private bathrooms. Other services include room service, a 24-hour front desk, and luggage storage.
The rooms are equipped with a desk and a flat-screen TV. Each room also includes a safe, and some have a balcony or city view. Bed linen and towels are provided in all rooms.
A continental breakfast is served every morning at the Tiduca Hotel.
- Single room
- Double room
- Twin room
- Triple room
The rooms are comfortable and well-equipped. They feature air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a desk, a safe, and a private bathroom. Some rooms also offer a balcony or city views. Bed linen and towels are provided, ensuring a pleasant and relaxing stay.
The Tiduca Hotel offers modern amenities for a comfortable stay. The hotel features free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and a terrace and common areas for relaxation. Guests can also enjoy a bar, restaurant, room service, a 24-hour front desk, and luggage storage. The rooms are air-conditioned, and the hotel provides a pleasant setting in the heart of the city.
The hotel features a restaurant where guests can enjoy a variety of cuisine inspired by local gastronomy. A continental breakfast is served each morning. Travelers can also enjoy the hotel bar, ideal for relaxing after a day of exploring or hiking.
Aldeia Panorâmica is a charming hotel located in the verdant Paul Valley on the island of Santo Antão. Surrounded by mountains and tropical vegetation, it offers magnificent panoramic views of the valley.
The hotel offers comfortable bungalow-style rooms, a restaurant serving local specialties and a peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal place to relax after a day of hiking.
- Single room
- Double room
- Twin room
- Triple room
The rooms are located in small, comfortable bungalows surrounded by tropical vegetation. They generally have single or double beds, a private bathroom, and an outdoor area where you can enjoy views of the mountains and valley. The atmosphere is calm and welcoming, ideal for relaxing after a day of hiking.
The hotel offers comfortable amenities that allow travelers to fully enjoy their stay in the valley. Guests can take advantage of pleasant common areas, a terrace with panoramic views of the valley, and an outdoor swimming pool surrounded by tropical gardens. The property also offers Wi-Fi access in public areas, creating an ideal setting for relaxation amidst nature.
The hotel features a restaurant serving Cape Verdean-inspired cuisine. Meals are prepared with local and seasonal ingredients, allowing guests to discover the flavors of the region. The restaurant also offers panoramic views of the Paul Valley, creating a pleasant and welcoming atmosphere.
The Ouril Mindelo Hotel , which offers free Wi-Fi, is located approximately a 9-minute walk from the Belém Tower and close to the Fortim do Rei, the Palácio do Povo, and Laginha Beach. Porto Grande Bay is also about a 13-minute walk away.
This 4-star hotel has 124 rooms, each equipped with a balcony, satellite TV, a minibar, and a private bathroom with a shower. The property also features an outdoor pool, a jacuzzi, a hot tub, a lounge bar, and two restaurants, including Americas.
- Single room
- Double room
- Twin room
- Triple room
The hotel has 124 comfortable and well-equipped rooms. They generally feature a balcony, satellite TV, a minibar, and a private bathroom with a shower. The rooms are air-conditioned and furnished with modern furniture, providing a pleasant setting for relaxation.
The Ouril Mindelo Hotel offers modern amenities for a comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy an outdoor pool, as well as common areas and a lounge bar for relaxation. The hotel also features free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour reception, and pleasant spaces to unwind after a day exploring the city.
The hotel features two restaurants, including Americos, where guests can enjoy a diverse menu inspired by local and international specialties. Breakfast is served each morning, and guests can also relax in the lounge bar, perfect for unwinding with a drink.
Access
Go to the starting point
Price details
The price includes
- 11 nights' accommodation included
- Round trip ferry crossing (São Vicente / Santo Antão)
- Transfers by private vehicle as per the quote
- Luggage transfer between accommodations
- Accommodation from day 1 to evening day 11
- Meals as indicated in the program
- Map and GPS tracks (GPX) for hiking
- Tourist tax in effect for overnight stays on site
- 24/7 agency assistance during your stay
The price does not include
- International flights
- Tour guide
- All meals not mentioned in the program (including water and other drinks)
- TSA – Airport Security Tax
- Excursions and activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Tips and personal purchases / souvenirs
- Anything not mentioned in the previous section
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
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.
Equipment
Clothing to bring
Hiking on the island of Santo Antão takes place on mountain trails that are often paved, sometimes uneven, with ascents and especially long descents.
For comfortable walking, it is recommended to use walking poles, which are helpful for balance and to relieve pressure on the knees. Also, remember to bring a water bottle, as some sections of the route may be exposed to the sun.
We also recommend a cap or hat, sunglasses, and, depending on the season, a rain poncho. Finally, good hiking boots with grippy soles are essential to fully enjoy the trails.
The Adilson team
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- ✅ A 100% identical offer: Same dates, same services, same sales conditions.
- ✅ A public and accessible price: The offer must be proposed by a French professional website, in euros.
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- You pay a 30% deposit today to reserve your stay.
- The balance (the remaining 70%) must be paid no later than 30 days before departure.
- ✅ Of an amount greater than €300.
- ✅ Whose departure is in more than 30 days.