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Santo Antão hiking

Santo Antão island - playground for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts

  • Popular Hikes: Coastal hike from Cha da Igreja to Ponta do Sol, Paul Valley hike, Cova Crater

Extensive Hiking Trails

For hiking enthusiasts, Santo Antão offers an extensive network of trails that traverse its stunning landscapes. The coastal hike from Cha da Igreja to Ponta do Sol is particularly popular, leading trekkers along breathtaking cliffs and past charming seaside villages. Additionally, the Paul Valley hike showcases the island's lush greenery and agricultural terraces, while the journey to the Cova Crater provides an overview of the island's volcanic past. These trails not only challenge adventurers but also serve as gateways to authentic experiences and beautiful panoramas.

Santo Antão: A brief guide to Hiking, Accommodation, and Travel Tips


Santo Antão offers a plethora of hiking routes, cultural experiences, and scenic vistas that are sure to captivate any traveler. Plan well, choose your accommodations wisely, and take the time to enjoy every second on this breathtaking island.

Santo Antão, one of the stunning islands in the Cape Verde archipelago, contrasts sharply with its smaller neighbor, São Vicente. While São Vicente is compact and densely populated, Santo Antão is a large island with a dispersed population and countless opportunities for hiking and trekking. In this guide, we'll explore the best ways to navigate Santo Antão, focusing on accommodation choices, travel factors, and some must-see routes and destinations.

Planning Your Stay

Travel Factors

When planning a trip to Santo Antão, several factors should come into play:

  • Length of Stay: The shorter your visit, the fewer accommodations you will want to book.
  • Number of Accommodations: Depending on your itinerary, you may need to switch places; however, too many changes can be tiresome.
  • Planned Routes: Consider the hiking and trekking routes you wish to explore, as this will influence where you should stay.

Many readers have asked about the best places to stay on the island. While it's impossible to cover every detail for everyone, understanding these factors can help you make a better-informed decision.

Ponta do Sol: An Ideal Base

Ponta do Sol has emerged as a popular place to stay on Santo Antão. This lively town offers bars, restaurants, and several routes that make it a convenient base for exploring the island. Here's why staying in Ponta do Sol could be beneficial:

  • Popular Accommodation: The town offers a range of accommodations, from cozy B&Bs like Sissi's to larger hotels.
  • Bars and Restaurants: The bustling nightlife in Ponta do Sol is a great way to unwind after a long day of hiking.
  • Coastal Route to Chã de Igreja/Cruzinha: This beautiful route brings you through the village of Fontainhas, famous for its incredible views.
  • Route to Ribeira Grande: Utilize Hiace/Aluguer transportation to make your way to Ribeira Grande and start your hikes from there.
  • Corda Walk: This walk down from Corda back to Ribeira Grande is a pleasant experience that offers breathtaking views, including Delgadim (Delgadinho).
  • Corda – Coculi Trail: A hiking trail that takes you down to the valley of Ribeira Grande.
  • Agua das Caldeiras to Xôxô Hike: From Agua das Caldeiras, hike down to Xôxô and the valley of Ribeira de Torre.
  • Cova to Paúl Hike: This popular hike brings you down to the beautiful valley of Paúl.

Other Places: Remote and Hidden Gems

Exploring other parts of Santo Antão is equally rewarding, although it comes with its own set of challenges:

  • Remote Accommodations: Staying in remote areas might limit your dining and entertainment options, so many accommodations offer meal plans.
  • Hiace/Aluguer Costs: Private transportation options are more expensive at night, so plan your trips accordingly.
  • Ferry Schedule: Public transportation is often aligned with the ferry schedule from Mindelo to Porto Novo.

One particularly remote yet rewarding destination is Tarrafal de Monte Trigo. This town is so off the beaten path that visiting it will likely take two days if you use public transportation. Renting a 4x4  could offer more flexibility and save time.

More Santo Antão Highlights: 

Santo Antão is vast and filled with stunning landscapes, so it's essential to prioritize quality over quantity:

  • Combined Hikes: Incorporate routes like Pico de Cruz, Cova, Paúl, Xôxô, and Fontainhas to experience the island's varied terrain.
  • Relaxation: Ensure you have downtime to relax between hikes. This will enhance your overall experience and let you truly appreciate the island's beauty.
  • Future Itineraries: More detailed itineraries will be shared in future posts to help you plan your visit.

General Tips

  • Strategic Planning: Plan your routes and accommodations to maximize your time on the island.
  • Limit Accommodation Changes: Minimize shifting between various accommodations to reduce travel fatigue.
  • Enjoyment and Beauty: Most importantly, take your time to soak in the incredible beauty of Santo Antão. The island's charm lies in its tranquil, awe-inspiring landscapes that deserve every moment of your appreciation.

Notable Hikes

The coastal hike from Chã de Igreja to Ponta do Sol is a popular trail that showcases the stunning natural beauty of Santo Antão. This route follows the northeastern coastline of the island, winding through charming villages that are remote and lack paved access. Hikers enjoy breathtaking views of towering cliffs and terraced valleys, offering a unique blend of dramatic landscapes and rich cultural scenery. The trail's undulating path presents a mix of challenging and manageable sections, making it a rewarding experience for nature enthusiasts. Along the way, hikers may encounter local flora and fauna, adding to the trek's appeal. Overall, this hike is a fantastic way to experience the rugged beauty and tranquility of Santo Antão's coastal region.

The stunning coastal hike on Santo Antão stretches about 20 kilometers and typically takes a day to finish. Beginning at Chã de Igreja, hikers traverse the marked coastal trail, which leads them through villages such as Cruzinha, Formiguinhas, Corvo, and Fontinhas. Each section of the route provides unique perspectives and experiences, highlighting the area's natural beauty and cultural richness.


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The Paul Valley hike is one of the top activities in Santo Antão


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The best activities and excursions in Santo Antao

Day Trip to Santo Antão by Car or Trek


Experience the stunning landscapes of Santo Antão with this enriching day trip, rated highly by travelers for its beautiful scenery and cultural immersion. The excursion can start from either São Vicente, including ferry transfers, or directly from Santo Antão, based on your preference.

Begin your day with a scenic ferry ride from Mindelo to Santo Antão, where you'll be greeted by lush vegetation, towering mountains, and charming villages. Accompanied by a local guide, you'll drive along traditional cobblestone roads, passing by vibrant communities and breathtaking views.

Key highlights include a visit to Pico da Cruz for stunning panoramas, Cova Crater for its unique microclimate, and the picturesque town of Ribeira Grande for lunch. Explore the fertile valleys of Xôxô and savor local rum at a Grogue distillery.

This full-day adventure offers a perfect blend of nature and culture, showcasing why Santo Antão is a must-see destination in Cape Verde. Enjoy comfortable transportation and an informative guide throughout your journey.

Half-Day Adventure Hike in Ribeira Grande

Embark on the Cachupa hike in Santo Antão, a unique half-day adventure that combines exploration, culture, and gastronomy. As you begin your journey, you'll gather in Ribeira Grande to enjoy locally produced coffee before hitting the scenic trails.The hike leads you through lush landscapes and offers spectacular viewpoints, all while your local guide shares insights into the region's history and culture. Along the way, you'll have the chance to forage for ingredients, including cassava and bananas, which will later be used to prepare cachupa, a traditional Cape Verdean stew made with hominy, vegetables, and beans.Refreshing stops at mountain streams provide an opportunity to hydrate, while local snacks and sugar cane add an authentic touch to your experience. The tour concludes back in Ribeira Grande, where you can unwind with a cup of coffee or tea and receive assistance for your onward journey, whether to your hotel or the ferry in Porto Novo. 

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Full-Day Island Tour in Santo Antão with Lunch Included

Experience the stunning beauty of Santo Antão Island on this full-day guided tour. For 7 to 9 hours, you will explore some of the island's most picturesque spots, including the majestic Cova Crater, known for its lush flora and microclimate.Begin your day with a fresh brewed coffee or tea in either Mindelo, Porto Novo, or Ribeira Grande, allowing the guide to tailor the itinerary to your group's preferences. You'll then enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from the Delgadinho mountain ridge, followed by a delightful lunch in Ribeira Grande, where you can savor traditional local cuisine.Continue to Ponta Do Sol, one of the oldest settlements in Cape Verde, featuring a charming main square and lively harbor. The tour concludes in the beautiful Paul Valley, where you can engage with locals, enjoy more local beverages, and perhaps sample a taste of traditional Grogue rum.This small-group experience guarantees personalized attention and an authentic look into the culture and landscapes of Santo Antão.

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Santo Antão: Trekking Cova de Paúl Volcano Crater - Ribeira de Paúl

Embark on an unforgettable hiking adventure through Santo Antão's most famous trail. This 5-hour trek starts at Cova Natural Park, where you'll witness Cape Verde's largest volcanic crater, Cova de Paúl, located over 1,100 meters above sea level. Here, you'll enjoy panoramic views of lush agricultural fields nestled within the crater and breathtaking landscapes stretching toward the ocean.Your guided hike continues as you descend via a stone path into the Green Valley of Paúl. As you navigate the zigzagging trails, you will explore the island's diverse flora and fauna, view abandoned vineyards, and see cultivated areas for sugar cane, bananas, and mangoes.Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to visit a local rum distillery and taste the famous grogue. Experience Santo Antão's natural beauty and cultural richness on this satisfying trek, concluding with a return drive through picturesque villages back to your accommodation.

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Santo Antão: Hike Ponta do Sol - Fontainhas - Cruzinha

Embark on a breathtaking 7-hour hiking adventure that takes you from Ponta do Sol to the picturesque village of Fontainhas and ends in Cruzinha. Starting in Ponta do Sol, you'll stroll through this vibrant waterfront village, characterized by its colorful houses and stunning ocean views.

As you hike the scenic paths along rocky cliffs, you'll reach Fontainhas, often recognized as one of the world's most beautiful villages, according to National Geographic. The route then guides you down to Praia das Aranhas, a black sandy beach known for turtle nesting, where you can relax and possibly take a refreshing swim (subject to sea conditions).

Continuing your journey, a 2.5-hour hike through volcanic landscapes leads you to Cruzinha, a charming fishing village. Pack your camera for this spectacular hike and book your picnic lunch in advance, ensuring you enjoy a delightful meal with ocean views. This unforgettable experience offers both natural beauty and cultural insights in the heart of Santo Antão.

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Santo Antão: Full-Day Island Tour & Visit to Cova de Paúl Volcano Crater

Experience the breathtaking natural beauty of Santo Antão, Cape Verde's westernmost island, on this full-day sightseeing tour. Lasting between 6 to 7 hours, this adventure begins with a pickup from your accommodation and takes you through stunning landscapes, including the Delgadinho Mountains and the lush Paul Valley.Your first stop will be at the Cova de Paúl Crater, where you can admire panoramic views from over 1,000 meters above sea level and see the expansive green plains below, used for agriculture. Next, explore the charming villages of Ponta do Sol and Fontainhas, recognized for their scenic beauty and traditional architecture.Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, then continue your journey to the greenest valley in Cape Verde, Vale de Paúl. Here, you'll have the chance to visit a local rum distillery and taste the famous grogue. This tour promises an unforgettable experience, showcasing the rich culture and landscape of Santo Antão.

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Santo Antão: Full-Day Island Tour & Visit to Cova de Paúl Volcano Crater

Experience the breathtaking natural beauty of Santo Antão, Cape Verde's westernmost island, on this full-day sightseeing tour. Lasting between 6 to 7 hours, this adventure begins with a pickup from your accommodation and takes you through stunning landscapes, including the Delgadinho Mountains and the lush Paul Valley.Your first stop will be at the Cova de Paúl Crater, where you can admire panoramic views from over 1,000 meters above sea level and see the expansive green plains below, used for agriculture. Next, explore the charming villages of Ponta do Sol and Fontainhas, recognized for their scenic beauty and traditional architecture.Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, then continue your journey to the greenest valley in Cape Verde, Vale de Paúl. Here, you'll have the chance to visit a local rum distillery and taste the famous grogue. This tour promises an unforgettable experience, showcasing the rich culture and landscape of Santo Antão.

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Private Day Trip to Santo Antão with Lunch

Experience the enchanting landscapes and rich culture of Santo Antão Island on this private day trip, ideal for those seeking a personalized adventure. Designed for up to five hours, the tour begins with a warm welcome from your driver at the port of Porto Novo, who will guide you along the scenic "Corda" road. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of the island's renowned mountains and valleys.Your first stop is at the impressive Cova de Paúl volcano crater, where you can take stunning photographs and appreciate the surrounding natural beauty. Afterward, you'll travel to the picturesque fishing village of Ponta do Sol, where you'll enjoy a delicious traditional Cape Verdean lunch.The journey continues to the lush Paul Valley, often considered the most beautiful on the island. Here, you'll stroll along small paths connecting charming hamlets, surrounded by vibrant plantations where coffee, oranges, guavas, and various vegetables are grown. Don't miss the opportunity to visit a local rum distillery to learn about the rum production process and savor the flavors of Santo Antão. This private tour ensures a unique and immersive experience, showcasing the best of the island's natural and cultural heritage

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Best of Santo Antão: 3-Day Hiking Tour

Embark on an unforgettable 3-day hiking adventure across the stunning landscapes of Santo Antão, Cape Verde. This comprehensive tour combines breathtaking hikes with cultural experiences, offering an immersive journey through the island's natural beauty and vibrant local life.

Day 1: Arrival and Cova de Paúl

Start your adventure with a ferry ride to Santo Antão, where you'll be greeted at Porto Novo and taken on a scenic drive through "estrada da velha." After lunch in Paul, enjoy a leisurely hike through the lush Paul Valley, exploring terraced crops like sugar cane, banana, and coffee. Visit a traditional distillery to learn about grogue, the local rum.

Day 2: Coculi to Cha de Pedras

Begin with breakfast in Paul before hiking through the breathtaking Coculi Valley for 4 to 5 hours. Experience stunning landscapes and local agricultural practices, then enjoy lunch with panoramic views. Continue your trek to Cha de Pedras, where you can learn about the local flora and fauna.

Day 3: Cruzinhas to Fontainhas

On your final day, hike along the coast, stopping at Praia d'Aranhas to observe nesting turtles. Explore the abandoned village of Formiguinhas before reaching Fontainhas, known for its extraordinary views. Enjoy lunch in this picturesque village before finishing your journey in Ponta Do Sol, with options to extend your stay or arrange transportation back to Porto Novo.With experienced guides and quality accommodations, this tour promises a unique experience of Santo Antão's unspoiled charm and vibrant culture.