The 8 most beautiful walks in Cape Verde

Do you love the great outdoors, the mountains and the sea? Then discover hiking in Cape Verde through our selection of the best trails to explore during your stay.

The state of Cape Verde is an archipelago of ten islands located around 650 kilometers off the coast of Senegal in the Atlantic Ocean. The country is divided into two series of islands.

Firstly, the leeward islands known as  » Sotavento  » in the south: Brava, Fogo, Maio and Santiago, where the capital Praia is located. Then the windward islands, also known as  » Barlavento » , to the north: Boa Vista, Sal, São Nicolau, Santa Luzia, São Vicente and Santo Antão.

When it comes to scenery, Cape Verde won’t disappoint. Do you like mountains? The Fogo peak, the country’s only active volcano and its highest point, as well as the rugged terrain of the other islands are yours to explore. If you prefer the sea, admire the black or blond sandy beaches and take advantage of those where the currents are not too strong to swim.

Are you a fan of lush greenery? You’ll love it too: terraced cultivation, coconut palms, banana trees, eucalyptus and acacia forests… So take a breath, and let’s go hiking in Cape Verde!

1. From Ponta do Sol to Cruzinhas on the island of Santo Antão

Photo credit: Shutterstock – Igor Tichonow

This coastal trail is one of the most popular hikes in Cape Verde on the island of Santo Antão. Over 14 kilometers, it allows you to discover the full extent of the country’s landscapes. First, take a small paved road to the pretty village of Fontainhas.

Next, you’ll follow the terraced fields on a mule track with an incredible view of the ocean. You will then reach the ribeira do Corvo river and the village of Forminguinhas. After crossing a few more valleys, you’ll reach the village of Cruzinha.

A beautiful hike in Cape Verde, between sea and mountains, covering a wide variety of landscapes.

2. From Ponta do Sol to Chã de Igreja along the coast on Santo Antão island

Photo credit: Shutterstock – Igor Tichonow

Looking for a challenging hike in Cape Verde? This is certainly one of the most beautiful in the country. For over 15 kilometers, this coastal path offers uninterrupted views of the ocean below.

As in hike #1 above, you’ll take the path from Ponta do Sol to Cruzinhas. But instead of stopping there, you continue into the Garça valley. You’ll follow the Ribeira da Garça to the charming village of Chã de Igreja. The effort may be intense, but it’s worth it!

3. From Sao Pedro to Farol de Dona Amélia on Sao Vincente island

Photo credit: Instagram -santiagodevalpuesta

If you’re looking for an easy hike in Cape Verde, this is the one for you. This short out-and-back circuit will allow you to stretch your legs as a family, with a magnificent view over the ocean.

To begin with, you’ll walk along the white sandy beach before climbing the cliffside path that leads to the Dona Amelia lighthouse. For around 6 kilometers, you’ll walk along the cliff face, admiring the ocean below. You’ll then arrive at the lighthouse, which is open to visitors.

4. From Tarrafal to Monte Trigo via the coast on Santo Antão island

Photo credit: Shutterstock – Samuel Borges Photography

Beware: this Cape Verde hike is reserved for those with thighs that pull and knees that heat up, as it’s pretty tough. It takes you from the black sandy beach of Tarrafal to Monte Trigo, 11 km away. The difficulty of this hike does not lie in its route. You’ll follow the paved path from start to finish, and you can’t go wrong. On the other hand, the path is very steep. Along the way, you’ll see the view change to embrace the grandeur of Santo Antão’s volcanic landscapes.

For the return trip, if you make arrangements with a fisherman in Tarrafal, he’ll pick you up at the agreed time and take you back by sea at the scheduled time. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some whales!

5. From Chã das Caldeiras to Mosteiros on Fogo Island

Photo credit : Shutterstock

This 11-kilometer hike in Cape Verde takes you through the volcanic landscape of the country’s only active volcano. First, you’ll walk for about an hour along the bottom of the caldera, a depression typical of volcanoes. The path is fairly flat. When you reach the edge of the caldera, enjoy the panoramic view of the surrounding area. Then things get a little tougher. As you enter the eucalyptus and acacia forest, you start to descend.

That’s why this route is one of the most challenging in Cape Verde. The descent is long and steep, and is sure to put a strain on your thighs! On the other hand, the shady forest landscape is well worth the effort. However, be careful in places, as the path can be slippery. Don’t hurt yourself!

6. To the top of Morro de Areia hill on the island of Boa Vista

Photo credit: Shutterstock – Rangzen

If you’re looking for an easy family hike in Cape Verde, this itinerary is for you. This short circuit of around 7 kilometers will take you through part of the Morro de Areia nature reserve on foot.

Starting from Chave beach, you follow the coastline for a while before crossing the dunes. You will then reach the top of this hill, some 170 m high.

Enjoy the view of the surrounding area: ocean, white sand and unspoilt nature. You may also spot protected species such as turtles or the red-billed phaeton, a seabird.

7. Climb to the top of the Pico de Fogo volcano on Fogo Island

Photo credit: Shutterstock – Daboost

Please note that a guide is required to complete this route safely!

A must on any hike in Cape Verde, the ascent of the Pico de Fogo crater is an unforgettable experience. The route takes you through lava fields, stretches of black sand and the lush vegetation that grows on fertile volcanic soils. It’s a landscape that’s sometimes lunar, sometimes apocalyptic, and yet so impressive!

The hike can be a little tricky at times due to the nature of the terrain, but it’s accessible even to beginners. And the view from the top of the volcano is breathtaking!

8. In the Xoxo valley on the island of Santo Antao

Photo credit: Shutterstock – Igor Tichonow

Looking for the best hikes in Cape Verde? Choose the Xoxo Valley. Less frequented than theVale do Paul, it’s at least as heavenly. You’ll pass through banana fields, impressive rocky peaks and lush tropical vegetation. From Xoxo, you pass through the villages of Lombo do Pico, Rabo Curto and Losna. The highlight of the walk is the Faja de Cima lookout at an altitude of almost 1,000 metres. From here, you’ll have an impressive view of the magnificent surrounding panorama: forest, mountains, terraces and, in the distance, the ocean.

This hike in Cape Verde has a big difference in altitude, but it’s not as difficult as all that, as there are steps between the terraces at times. That said, be sure to bring plenty of water and protect yourself from the sun!