Distance: this is a linear walk of approximately 5 miles (9 km) and generally takes around 4 to 5 hours. It is moderately challenging and has some exposed sections. Aside from a short uphill section at the start, you will be descending for 1,200 m, so consider using walking poles.
There are many beautiful valleys on Santo Antao and the Xoxo Valley is particularly iconic, due to an impressive rock needle that guards the valley, known as Lomba de Pico. Carved out over millions of years of wind and rain erosion, this vertical pinnace is surrounded by the lush greenery of the Xoxo Valley (Ribeira da Torre). It really is a spectacularly beautiful place and is accessible by road.
The mountain trail that connects the high plateau of Agua das Caldeiras with Xoxo can be walked in either direction. Those who prefer an uphill challenge will start in Xoxo, but most opt to descend into the Xoxo Valley, so we will describe it that way.
Your walk starts at a place called Pedra Rachada, on the high plateau of Agua das Caldeiras, just a little beyond the Cova Crater. The trails starts through a beautiful woodland of pine and eucalyptus. Though the walk it predominantly downhill, you start with about 210ft/64 meters of elevation gain, so it’s a good idea to start early, in cooler temperatures.
Once you reach the high point of the route, at 4800ft, you start your descent into the valley. The path is reasonably well established, a combination of paved rock and dirt tracks. You need to be comfortable with exposer because some parts of the path are rather excising, weaved into the valley close to vertical drops. For those who are comfortable at height, the views are just incredible.
As you get into lower elevations you will see terraced slopes with a range of tropical fruits: banana, papaya, mango, quince, and, of course, sugar cane. As you get closer to Xoxo, the iconic rock needle looms into view.
Optional Waterfall Walk to Cachoeira de Vinha
There is a popular walk to a waterfall called Cachoeria de Vinha, starting from Xoxo. The walk takes about 1 hour 45 minutes, so talk with your guide if you think you might be interested in including this in your day. Do bear in mind that the trail is very narrow in sections, and a little precarious in parts, so you need to be sure-footed. Bring swimming things if you want to have a dip in the pool at the bottom of the waterfall. This walk is best after Cape Verde’s rainy season (August to October), when the waterfall will be in full flow.
To find out more about the walking trails on Santo Antão: team@archipelagochoice.com ????
Or check out some popular walks in our Guided Walking in Cape Verde travel guide.
