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On the Trails of Cape Verde

São Vicente, Santo Antão, Fogo and Santiago

On the Trails of Cape Verde

Number of part.

From 2

Duration

20 days

Price

1950€ per person

Private tours, flight tickets, all inclusive, ...

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DESCRIPTION

A comprehensive itinerary exploring four iconic Cape Verdean islands: São Vicente, Santo Antão, Fogo, and Santiago. This journey immerses you in volcanic landscapes, tropical valleys, and authentic villages. From Mindelo to Cidade Velha, via the trails of Santo Antão and the black earth of Fogo, each stop offers an unforgettable cultural, natural, and human immersion.

Diversity

Volcanoes

Meetings

Culture

To customize your trip, click here

GENERAL

Level: 🥾🥾🥾
Tour Type: Itinerant
Duration: 20 days / 19 nights
Portage: Only your daily belongings
Transfers: By private vehicle, inter-island boat, and domestic flights
Accommodation: Hotels, guesthouses, homestays
Guide: Local French-speaking guide

ITINERARY

Day 1 – Arrival in Cape Verde: São Vicente Island

Arrival at Cesaria Evora airport then transfer by our driver to your hotel where you will spend the night.

Meals not included

Type of accommodation: in a hotel (Mindelo Residencial or similar)


Day 2 - Cultural visit of Mindelo

The island of Mindelo, considered the cultural capital of Cape Verde, is characterized by its colonial buildings, cobblestone streets, and ancient buildings that today house numerous institutions and offer visitors a wealth of information about our ancestors.

Breakfast included

Type of accommodation: in a hotel (Mindelo Residencial or similar)


Day 3 - Excursion to the island of Sao Vicente: Mindelo - Monte Verde - Baia das Gatas – Calhau

Departing from Mindelo, set off on an unforgettable adventure to discover the treasures of São Vicente.

Begin by climbing Monte Verde, the highest point on the island, from where you'll enjoy breathtaking views of Mindelo and the neighboring islands. On the way back down, head to the charming Baía das Gatas, famous for its calm, crystal-clear waters, a favorite with both locals and visitors.

You'll then walk along the splendid golden sands of Praia Grande to the peaceful fishing village of Calhau. There, a short hike of about 45 minutes awaits you around an ancient volcano. Along the way, be amazed by stunning rock formations, ancient wind tunnels, and other geological wonders.

To conclude this day full of discoveries, you will reach Mindelo by crossing the green oasis of Calhau, a true haven of peace in the heart of a volcanic landscape.

Breakfast included.

Type of accommodation: in a hotel (Mindelo Residencial or similar)


Day 4 - Santo Antao Island - Cova Volcano Hike – Aguada

Morning transfer to the port of Mindelo for a boat trip of approximately 1 hour to Porto Novo, on the island of Santo Antão.

You'll then take the famous Corda road to the Cova crater, stopping to admire the view. The hike begins here, through a lush valley of tropical crops: sugarcane, yams, cassava, and more.

Your luggage will be carried by donkeys to the remote village of Aguada, accessible only on foot. Spend the night in a local's home for an authentic and friendly experience.

Breakfast, picnic and dinner included

Walking time: 3 hours

Elevation gain: - 700 m

Accommodation: with locals (Chez Judith)


Day 5 - Cha de Pedras Valley - Caibros – Cha de Igreja

After breakfast, you leave the village of Aguada for a new day of discovery in the heart of Santo Antão.

Crossing the Chã de Pedras Valley, you'll take a stunning balcony trail offering spectacular views of the island's lush green valleys and rugged terrain. You'll then reach the charming village of Caibros, nestled in the mountains.

In the afternoon, transfer to the village of Chã de Igreja, where you will settle in for the night in a warm and welcoming guesthouse.

Walking time: 4h30

Elevation gain: +650m / Elevation loss: -650m

Breakfast, picnic and dinner included

Accommodation: in guesthouse (casa de Adilsa or similar)


Day 6 – Cruzinha - Ponta do Sol Hike

After breakfast, continue the adventure to the village of Cruzinha, the starting point of a superb coastal hike.

This spectacular trail, carved into the mountainside, winds between the sea and the cliffs, offering striking landscapes and a unique light. Along the way, you'll pass through the authentic hamlets of Formiguinhas and Corvo, before reaching Fontainhas, one of the island's most iconic villages, perched on the cliffside.

You will end the day in Ponta do Sol, a charming seaside town, where you will spend the night.

Walking time: 5 hours

Elevation gain +: 550m / Elevation loss –: 550m

Breakfast and picnic lunch included. Dinner not included.

Accommodation: guesthouse (Casa Celeste or similar)


Day 7 - Local cuisine at Forrador's farm

Head for an authentic culinary experience in the heart of the lush Ribeira Grande Valley.

In a charming quinta surrounded by nature, you'll participate in a friendly and immersive cooking workshop. On the program: preparing a delicious meal with local flavors, fresh fruit juices, homemade papaya jams, local cheese... and to top it all off, a shared barbecue in a warm and relaxed atmosphere.

Between two preparations, you can relax by the pool, lulled by the birdsong and the serenity of the place.

At the end of the day, return to your accommodation, with a light soul and a happy stomach!

Breakfast and lunch included

Accommodation: guesthouse (Casa Celeste or similar)


Day 8 - Loop, Ribeira da Torre Valley – Vinha Waterfall - Xoxo

You'll explore the lush Xoxo Valley, a veritable agricultural haven nestled between the mountains. Then, you'll continue to the majestic Vinha Waterfall, where water cascades through a lush setting. Let yourself be lulled by the soothing murmur of the water and immerse yourself in the energy of this peaceful place.

A perfect break to reconnect with nature and savor the island's wild beauty. At the end of the day, transfer to the Paul Valley, where you'll spend the night in a lush green setting.

Breakfast and lunch included. Dinner not included.

Walking time: 3 hours

Elevation gain: + 300 m and - 300 m

Accommodation: in a guesthouse (Luz do Sol or similar)


Day 9 - Paul - Vila das Pombas – Cha de Morte

From your accommodation, you will take the coastal road to the eastern end of the Paúl Valley, the starting point for an unforgettable hike.

You'll cross one of Santo Antão's most spectacular valleys, featuring terraced crops, lush green peaks, crystal-clear rivers, and traditional villages. The Cabo de Ribeira cirque, a vibrant agricultural heartland, will reveal the richness of local life. A stopover at a local's home will allow you to sample the flavors of Cape Verdean cuisine in a friendly and authentic atmosphere.

You'll also visit a traditional grogue distillery, the famous local rum, to discover the secrets of its production. At the end of the tour, your driver awaits for a transfer to Chã de Morte, where you'll spend two nights in a welcoming guesthouse.

Breakfast, lunch at the local's house and dinner included.

Walking hours: 4h30h

Elevation gain: +550m / Elevation loss: -750m

Accommodation: in a guesthouse (Chez Suzete or similar)


Day 10 - Alto Mira Hike - Forquinha Pass - Cha de Morte

After a short transfer to Alto Mira, you'll begin your final hike through the contrasting landscapes of Ribeira das Patas. Between semi-arid lands, unexpected oases, basalt rock formations, and farming hamlets, this walk offers a fascinating last glimpse of Santo Antão's natural diversity. You'll descend on foot to Chã de Morte, where your adventure comes to an end. Then, transfer to Porto Novo to board the 4 p.m. boat to Mindelo. Upon arrival, you'll be met and taken to your accommodation in the city center.

Breakfast and picnic included

Walking time: 3 hours

Elevation gain +: 250 m / -: 500 m

Accommodation: in a hotel (Mindelo Residencial or similar)


Day 11 – Flight São Vicente – Fogo via Praia

Transfer to the airport according to your flight schedule to Fogo Island.

Upon arrival, our driver will greet you and take you to your accommodation in the heart of Chã das Caldeiras, a unique location nestled at the foot of the volcano. Depending on your flight time, you'll have the opportunity to take a pleasant stroll through the village, discovering its unique atmosphere, lunar landscapes, and local life shaped by the lava flows. Stay for two nights in this exceptional volcanic setting.

Breakfast and dinner included

Type of accommodation: in a guest house (Casa Alcindo or similar)


Day 12 – Hike to Petit Pico de Fogo

From Chã das Caldeiras, set off with your guide for a hike to Pico Pequeno (1,920 m), in the heart of the 2014 lava flows.

This is an opportunity to discover the impact of the eruption and admire the village in its many shades of black. Then, descend to the village of Portela. If the hike is too difficult, a visit to the cooperative winery and a local farm is possible.

Check into your guesthouse, at the foot of the volcano.

Breakfast, picnic and dinner included

Optional walking time: 5h30

Type of accommodation: in a guest house (Casa Alcindo or similar)


Day 13 – Hike Chã das Caldeiras - Mosteiros

After breakfast, descend the volcano to the sea, passing through eucalyptus and mimosa forests, as well as orange and coffee orchards. From Mosteiros, transfer by car along the coastal road to São Filipe, a charming village with flower-filled squares, old colonial mansions, and a picturesque beach.

Breakfast and picnic included. Dinner not included.

Walking time: 4 hours / Elevation gain: - 1000m

Type of accommodation: in a hotel (Savana hotel or similar)

Breakfast and picnic included. Dinner not included.

Walking time: 4 hours / Elevation gain: - 1000m

Type of accommodation: in a hotel (Savana hotel or similar)


Day 14 – Flight Fogo – Praia

Meet our driver for a transfer from your hotel to the airport in preparation for your flight to Praia. Upon arrival, you'll be met at the airport and transferred to Praia town center, where you'll settle into your accommodation.

Breakfast included, lunch and dinner not included

Accommodation: in a hotel (Hotel Cesaria or similar)


Day 15 - Cidade Velha (former capital of Cape Verde)

In the morning, depart to explore the Plateau, the historic heart of Praia. You'll stroll through its picturesque streets, Albuquerque Square, the Catholic Church, and the municipal market, a veritable explosion of color. Then, descend to Sucupira, the largest market in Cape Verde, a bustling labyrinth to explore.

Late in the morning, head to Cidade Velha, the former capital and first colonial trading post of the country, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You'll have lunch by the sea, then visit the São Filipe Fort, the Pillory, where slaves were chained, the old cathedral, the church, the convent, and the famous Rua Banana. After this historical immersion, transfer to your hotel in Rui Vaz.

Breakfast included. Lunch and dinner not included.

Type of accommodation: in guest house (Quinta da Montanha or similar)


Day 16 - Hike to Rui Vaz - Longueira and Pico d’Antónia

Depart in the morning for Rui Vaz, a fertile plateau offering stunning panoramas. The hike passes through agricultural landscapes and traditional villages, and offers spectacular views from the summit. After the hike, transfer to Assomada for two nights in a comfortable hotel.

Walking time: Approximately 4-5 hours.

Elevation gain: +700 m / -700 m.

Breakfast and picnic included. Dinner not included.

Type of accommodation / in a guest house (French coast or similar)


Day 17 - Hiking in the Serra Malagueta Natural Park / Gongon Valley

Depart early in the morning for Serra Malagueta, where you'll begin a hike through high-altitude forests, offering breathtaking views of the north coast. The descent to Gongon will take you through isolated villages, allowing you to experience an authentic immersion in Cape Verdean nature.

After the hike, transfer to Tarrafal, where you will check into a beachfront hotel for two nights.

Walking time: About 4 hours

Elevation gain: +200 m / -1000 m.

Breakfast and picnic included. Dinner not included.

Type of accommodation / in hotel (Hotel Viajante or similar)


Day 18 and Day 19 - Free time in Tarrafal

Enjoy these two days relaxing on Tarrafal Beach, famous for its turquoise waters and white sand. Water activities such as diving, snorkeling, and kayaking are available on site.

Breakfast included

Type of accommodation / in hotel (Hotel Viajante or similar)


Day 20 - Return Flight

Transfer to the airport according to your flight schedule for your return.

Breakfast included

PRICE DETAILS

Price per person based on 2 people : 2750€
Price per person based on 3 people : 2250€
Price per person based on 4 people : 2100€
Price from 5 people : 1950€

What the price includes:

  • 19 nights included

  • Sao Vicente – Santo Antao round-trip ferry tickets;

  • Internal Flights (São Vicente – Fogo) (Fogo-Santiago)

  • Luggage transfers and transfers necessary by private car for the normal course of the trip;

  • Tourist tax €2/person/night;

  • Meals mentioned as included

  • Visit to a distillery in Paul

  • French-speaking guide for activities

  • Activities included as indicated in the quote



What the price does not include 

  • Drinks (water & others)

  • Meals not mentioned as included (count around €5 for lunch, €12 for dinner, excluding drinks)

  • Accommodations not mentioned as included

  • The flight plan

  • Personal expenses and tips

  • The TSA (Airport Security Tax)

  • Repatriation insurance. Below is the link where you can purchase travel insurance: link

  • Anything not listed in "Prices include"

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

WHAT THEY SAY

Helene Christophe

Thank you to the entire Actour Trekking team. Our guide, Luis, was very welcoming and caring, and he introduced us to his island, Santo Antao. The landscapes were breathtaking, our hosts for the evening were friendly and warm, the food was delicious and abundant, and the drivers were always punctual and friendly.

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