Summary
Our Cape Verde Walking holiday on Santiago takes you through high mountains, vibrant valleys, and idyllic coastal towns.
Highlights
- Santiago is the real Cape Verde with stunning mountains and bustling towns.
- Walk with your private guide to the island's summit: Pico d'Antonia
- Relax in Tarrafal and swim in this safe and sheltered bay.
The Details
This is an exciting, busy and varied walking holiday! This private, guided week of walking on Santiago in Cape Verde includes hikes which vary from three to seven hours, through a mixture of Santiago’s high mountains, fertile valleys and forests.
You’ll have the opportunity to climb Santiago’s highest peak, Pico d’Antonio (1,392m), walk the deep and lush valleys of the beautiful Serra Malagueta Natural Park, and hike to the fascinating coastal town of Cidade Velha.
You will be staying in three very different places on the island: just outside the mountain town Assomada; the idyllic harbour and beach town of Tarrafal on the north coast; and Cape Verde’s bustling, African-feeling capital city of Praia.
We have included five interesting walks on this Santiago walking holiday. Most are suitable for all ages, but many can be adapted to your abilities and experience. If you’d like to try some other activities whilst you’re here we’re more than happy to arrange these for you.
Most meals are included in this holiday and as the guiding is private and just for you, our guides will be able to tailor the routes according to the conditions and your needs.
Suggested Itinerary
Depart Heathrow and fly via Lisbon to Santiago in Cape Verde. On arrival transfer to Hotel Oasis Praia Mar where you stay for two nights.
This morning you will be picked up by your guide and driven Calabaciera where you start you walk to Cidade Velha. Hike through the fertile ribeiras and sugar cane fields to Cidade Velha in around three hours, where you also have your lunch. Your guide will then take you on a historical stroll to Rua Banana, the Nossa Senhora do Rosario church and the Pelourinho (pillory). You may also wish to visit the fort which overlooks the bay. Return to your hotel and have the rest of the day free
Very early morning drive to the start of your walk to climb Pico d'Antonio (1392m) - the highest peak on Santiago. This is subject to the weather and how comfortable you are on steep ground but an alternative walk can be arranged. There are several ways to reach the top of Pico d' Antonio and you can discuss the most suitable options with your guide. The path to the top is not clear and you need to be sure-footed on the loose rock. The walk is difficult and takes up to 6 hours. Lunch is included and at the end of your walk, you will be transferred to the Pousada Vassora where you stay for two nights.
Accompanied by your guide you visit the colourful African market in Assomada, where not only fruit and vegetables are being sold, but also chickens and other livestock. You will then be driven to the Serra Malagueta Natural Park where you walk the moderate and very scenic Gongon trail (4hrs). The first part of the walk takes you to the ridge where you have great views of the plains below you. For here the walk is mainly downhill, so bring your walking poles as it can be hard on your knees. The views along this green and verdant valley are pretty amazing until you reach the village of Hortolao, where your transfer will be waiting for you. A packed lunch is included.
From your Pousada, walk along a shallow river to the village of Boa Entrada, in the centre of the island. This village is famously known for its giant Kapok tree. This magnificent tree is home to a colony of Purple Heron, a bird endemic to Santiago. You'll be picked up and transferred to the small fishing town of Tarrafal in the north of the island. Stay at the Residence Tarrafal for two nights.
Free day to relax. Why not go to the lovely cove and its white sandy beach near the main square, where there is always lots going on. It's very popular with locals and a safe bathing and swimming spot. Or watch the fisherman come on shore with their daily catch.
Return to Praia with your guide and en-route to the Hotel Oasis Atlantico Praiamar, visit the bustling plateau in Praia and crowded Sukopira market. You will be dropped off near the main square which is surrounded by some impressive buildings like the old Catholic cathedral and the nearby Palace of the Council, the Presidential Palace and the Palace of Justice. Don't forget to take a picture of the statue of Diogo Gomes who after all was one of the people who discovered Cape Verde.
Free day (day room only) until it is time for your late night transfer to the airport for your overnight flight home via Lisbon.
Suggested places to stay
The combination of accommodation we choose for your trip is part of the key to an unforgettable holiday. Throughout your trip you will be staying in some of the most amazing places.
From a tastefully designed Pousada to a simple but comfortable hotel on the coast - Santiago has some great accommodation choices and the hotels on this trip have been specially selected for you.
All the accommodation will be on B&B basis apart from the more remote places where dinner will be included.
Gallery
From £2,500 per person
Price included
The price is based on two people sharing a twin or a double room, activities as described and includes flights from the UK.
For a personalised itinerary and full list of what's included, please get in touch.
