Azure seas, sand blown all the way from the Sahara, and pastel-colored houses—is that what comes to mind? Cape Verde is so much more! We're excited to take you on a genuine mountain trek through oases of lush forests and along spectacular cliffs. Join us and discover the island of Santo Antão, the true Cape Verde.
During this hike, we experience a completely different side of the archipelago than what we typically associate with Cape Verde. Highlights come one after another, and the contrasts are striking. Santo Antão - the archipelago's second-largest island - offers some of West Africa's best hikes. Here, we find towering green mountain peaks, lush craters, and small villages perched on cliffs. We will walk through the mountain village of Fontainhas, which National Geographic recognized as one of the villages offering the most beautiful vistas worldwide. We alternate between staying in hotels, charming guesthouses, and with local families - cultural experiences are also an important part of this journey.
This trip offers unique natural experiences, perhaps unlike anything you've encountered before. Join us on an adventure!
Plan it your way
Want this trip just for your group? Or got something different in mind? We've got you.
We are flying to Portugal and staying overnight at an airport hotel, ready for the morning flight to São Vicente the next day.
We are flying to Portugal and staying overnight at an airport hotel, ready for the morning flight to São Vicente the next day.
After a 4.5-hour flight from Lisbon, we are ready to explore the port city of Mindelo on the island of São Vicente. This island is known for its many artists and lively music scene, and Mindelo clearly reflects that. There will be time for a short walking trip around town and perhaps a trip to the beach. You can also choose to just relax and enjoy the warm weather at our hotel. In the evening, we will have a group dinner together in the evening and go over the itinerary for the next days.
After a 4.5-hour flight from Lisbon, we are ready to explore the port city of Mindelo on the island of São Vicente. This island is known for its many artists and lively music scene, and Mindelo clearly reflects that. There will be time for a short walking trip around town and perhaps a trip to the beach. You can also choose to just relax and enjoy the warm weather at our hotel. In the evening, we will have a group dinner together in the evening and go over the itinerary for the next days.
We have breakfast and depart early towards the harbour for a one-hour ferry journey to Porto Novo on the neighbouring island of Santo Antão. Upon arrival, a local driver meets us and transports us across the northern plateau to Tarrafal de Monte Trigo on the island's western side. As we descend towards the village, we disembark from the bus and hike down to our hotel. The trail offers panoramic views of the bay, featuring a black lava sand beach. If we're fortunate, we might enjoy a swim and witness a beautiful sunset.
We have breakfast and depart early towards the harbour for a one-hour ferry journey to Porto Novo on the neighbouring island of Santo Antão. Upon arrival, a local driver meets us and transports us across the northern plateau to Tarrafal de Monte Trigo on the island's western side. As we descend towards the village, we disembark from the bus and hike down to our hotel. The trail offers panoramic views of the bay, featuring a black lava sand beach. If we're fortunate, we might enjoy a swim and witness a beautiful sunset.
Today, we embark on a coastal hike along the base of a nearly 2000-meter-high volcano. Starting directly from our guesthouse, we make our way to Monte Trigo, a secluded fishing village accessible only by foot or boat. The residents here rely primarily on fishing for their livelihood. The path winds along rugged mountains and deserted beaches, providing panoramic views of the wild coastline. After our hike, we return to Tarrafal de Monte Trigo by boat, where we spend a second night at our guesthouse. This village, nestled between the ocean and mountains, remains relatively untouched by mass tourism, offering a tranquil retreat for visitors.
Today, we embark on a coastal hike along the base of a nearly 2000-meter-high volcano. Starting directly from our guesthouse, we make our way to Monte Trigo, a secluded fishing village accessible only by foot or boat. The residents here rely primarily on fishing for their livelihood. The path winds along rugged mountains and deserted beaches, providing panoramic views of the wild coastline. After our hike, we return to Tarrafal de Monte Trigo by boat, where we spend a second night at our guesthouse. This village, nestled between the ocean and mountains, remains relatively untouched by mass tourism, offering a tranquil retreat for visitors.
After breakfast, we proceed to our next destination in the heart of the island. We'll be transported to Ribeira das Patas, where we'll embark on today's journey through cultural oases and villages inhabited by local farmers. Perhaps we'll engage in conversations with some of them? Hospitality is highly valued here, and it's easy to be charmed. We'll arrive at our accommodation for the night, greeted with warm smiles and a splendid view.
After breakfast, we proceed to our next destination in the heart of the island. We'll be transported to Ribeira das Patas, where we'll embark on today's journey through cultural oases and villages inhabited by local farmers. Perhaps we'll engage in conversations with some of them? Hospitality is highly valued here, and it's easy to be charmed. We'll arrive at our accommodation for the night, greeted with warm smiles and a splendid view.
Today, we will hike up the steep side of the volcanic crater to its rim, where a steppe landscape unfolds. We'll enjoy our packed lunch idyllically beneath some pine trees, offering splendid views to the south. Our descent follows an ancient path, showcasing impressive stone architecture built by slaves in the 1700s, leading us back to our accommodation. This day truly highlights how lava has shaped the island's geology. The distance covered isn't extensive, but it involves significant elevation gain and loss.
Today, we will hike up the steep side of the volcanic crater to its rim, where a steppe landscape unfolds. We'll enjoy our packed lunch idyllically beneath some pine trees, offering splendid views to the south. Our descent follows an ancient path, showcasing impressive stone architecture built by slaves in the 1700s, leading us back to our accommodation. This day truly highlights how lava has shaped the island's geology. The distance covered isn't extensive, but it involves significant elevation gain and loss.
We awaken to the beautiful morning light, enjoy breakfast, and set off towards the Paul Valley on the eastern side of the island. This is one of the greenest and most cultivated valleys on the island. Today, we'll hike past natural terraces planted with coffee, bananas, guava, sugar cane, oranges, and a variety of vegetables. We'll savor lunch at a charming little restaurant nestled in the mountains. It's important to pause occasionally to fully appreciate the lush and unique landscape surrounding us. As we approach the sea, we'll reach the small coastal town of Vila das Pombas, known for its pastel-colored houses lining the beach. We'll arrive at our guesthouse, where we'll be treated to warm local hospitality.
We awaken to the beautiful morning light, enjoy breakfast, and set off towards the Paul Valley on the eastern side of the island. This is one of the greenest and most cultivated valleys on the island. Today, we'll hike past natural terraces planted with coffee, bananas, guava, sugar cane, oranges, and a variety of vegetables. We'll savor lunch at a charming little restaurant nestled in the mountains. It's important to pause occasionally to fully appreciate the lush and unique landscape surrounding us. As we approach the sea, we'll reach the small coastal town of Vila das Pombas, known for its pastel-colored houses lining the beach. We'll arrive at our guesthouse, where we'll be treated to warm local hospitality.
Another early morning finds us ready for a coastal hike along an impressive cobblestone path, meticulously maintained by the locals. As we traverse this route, we might encounter schoolchildren commuting to and from their classes. Despite the steep cliffs and the Atlantic's mighty waves crashing against the rocks below, the trail feels secure. The turquoise expanse of the ocean stretching to the horizon beautifully contrasts with the volcanic landscape we navigate. In the afternoon, we arrive at the quaint village of Fontainhas, renowned for its vibrant houses perched precariously on cliffsides. This picturesque setting has been likened to a miniature "Cinque Terre," set amidst even more dramatic surroundings. It's astonishing to witness how homes have been constructed in such rugged terrain. Our journey culminates in the fishing village of Ponta do Sol, where we might observe daily life unfolding at the harbor before returning to our guesthouse in Vila das Pombas.
Another early morning finds us ready for a coastal hike along an impressive cobblestone path, meticulously maintained by the locals. As we traverse this route, we might encounter schoolchildren commuting to and from their classes. Despite the steep cliffs and the Atlantic's mighty waves crashing against the rocks below, the trail feels secure. The turquoise expanse of the ocean stretching to the horizon beautifully contrasts with the volcanic landscape we navigate. In the afternoon, we arrive at the quaint village of Fontainhas, renowned for its vibrant houses perched precariously on cliffsides. This picturesque setting has been likened to a miniature "Cinque Terre," set amidst even more dramatic surroundings. It's astonishing to witness how homes have been constructed in such rugged terrain. Our journey culminates in the fishing village of Ponta do Sol, where we might observe daily life unfolding at the harbor before returning to our guesthouse in Vila das Pombas.
Today, we begin with breakfast at our host family's home before driving to Ribeira da Torre, a deep volcanic valley surrounded by cliffs. This area offers insight into the rural life and culture of its inhabitants. Our trail leads us, through cultivated fields of sugar cane and yams (a local vegetable used as a potato substitute) - towards the village of Rabo Curto. Along the way, we'll observe the intricate network of irrigation channels supporting local agriculture. After our hike, our driver will pick us up, and we'll return to Porto Novo via the "Estrada da Corda" or "Corda Road." This hand-built road, consisting of approximately 15 million cobblestones, winds through the mountains, offering breathtaking views of the island's diverse landscapes. Its name, meaning "rope road" aptly describes its winding nature. Back in Porto Novo, there may be time for a refreshing swim before we board the ferry to Mindelo. In the evening, we'll gather for a farewell dinner at a cozy local restaurant, perhaps indulging in a traditional seafood dish.
Today, we begin with breakfast at our host family's home before driving to Ribeira da Torre, a deep volcanic valley surrounded by cliffs. This area offers insight into the rural life and culture of its inhabitants. Our trail leads us, through cultivated fields of sugar cane and yams (a local vegetable used as a potato substitute) - towards the village of Rabo Curto. Along the way, we'll observe the intricate network of irrigation channels supporting local agriculture. After our hike, our driver will pick us up, and we'll return to Porto Novo via the "Estrada da Corda" or "Corda Road." This hand-built road, consisting of approximately 15 million cobblestones, winds through the mountains, offering breathtaking views of the island's diverse landscapes. Its name, meaning "rope road" aptly describes its winding nature. Back in Porto Novo, there may be time for a refreshing swim before we board the ferry to Mindelo. In the evening, we'll gather for a farewell dinner at a cozy local restaurant, perhaps indulging in a traditional seafood dish.
In the morning, we will be driven to the airport and wave goodbye to our skilled and friendly local guide. We will stay overnight at the Lisbon airport again.
In the morning, we will be driven to the airport and wave goodbye to our skilled and friendly local guide. We will stay overnight at the Lisbon airport again.
We return home with great memories and amazing stories of how one island can have so many dimensions of nature.
We return home with great memories and amazing stories of how one island can have so many dimensions of nature.
We are flying to Portugal and staying overnight at an airport hotel, ready for the morning flight to São Vicente the next day.
After a 4.5-hour flight from Lisbon, we are ready to explore the port city of Mindelo on the island of São Vicente. This island is known for its many artists and lively music scene, and Mindelo clearly reflects that. There will be time for a short walking trip around town and perhaps a trip to the beach. You can also choose to just relax and enjoy the warm weather at our hotel. In the evening, we will have a group dinner together in the evening and go over the itinerary for the next days.
We have breakfast and depart early towards the harbour for a one-hour ferry journey to Porto Novo on the neighbouring island of Santo Antão. Upon arrival, a local driver meets us and transports us across the northern plateau to Tarrafal de Monte Trigo on the island's western side. As we descend towards the village, we disembark from the bus and hike down to our hotel. The trail offers panoramic views of the bay, featuring a black lava sand beach. If we're fortunate, we might enjoy a swim and witness a beautiful sunset.
Today, we embark on a coastal hike along the base of a nearly 2000-meter-high volcano. Starting directly from our guesthouse, we make our way to Monte Trigo, a secluded fishing village accessible only by foot or boat. The residents here rely primarily on fishing for their livelihood. The path winds along rugged mountains and deserted beaches, providing panoramic views of the wild coastline. After our hike, we return to Tarrafal de Monte Trigo by boat, where we spend a second night at our guesthouse. This village, nestled between the ocean and mountains, remains relatively untouched by mass tourism, offering a tranquil retreat for visitors.
After breakfast, we proceed to our next destination in the heart of the island. We'll be transported to Ribeira das Patas, where we'll embark on today's journey through cultural oases and villages inhabited by local farmers. Perhaps we'll engage in conversations with some of them? Hospitality is highly valued here, and it's easy to be charmed. We'll arrive at our accommodation for the night, greeted with warm smiles and a splendid view.
Today, we will hike up the steep side of the volcanic crater to its rim, where a steppe landscape unfolds. We'll enjoy our packed lunch idyllically beneath some pine trees, offering splendid views to the south. Our descent follows an ancient path, showcasing impressive stone architecture built by slaves in the 1700s, leading us back to our accommodation. This day truly highlights how lava has shaped the island's geology. The distance covered isn't extensive, but it involves significant elevation gain and loss.
We awaken to the beautiful morning light, enjoy breakfast, and set off towards the Paul Valley on the eastern side of the island. This is one of the greenest and most cultivated valleys on the island. Today, we'll hike past natural terraces planted with coffee, bananas, guava, sugar cane, oranges, and a variety of vegetables. We'll savor lunch at a charming little restaurant nestled in the mountains. It's important to pause occasionally to fully appreciate the lush and unique landscape surrounding us. As we approach the sea, we'll reach the small coastal town of Vila das Pombas, known for its pastel-colored houses lining the beach. We'll arrive at our guesthouse, where we'll be treated to warm local hospitality.
Another early morning finds us ready for a coastal hike along an impressive cobblestone path, meticulously maintained by the locals. As we traverse this route, we might encounter schoolchildren commuting to and from their classes. Despite the steep cliffs and the Atlantic's mighty waves crashing against the rocks below, the trail feels secure. The turquoise expanse of the ocean stretching to the horizon beautifully contrasts with the volcanic landscape we navigate. In the afternoon, we arrive at the quaint village of Fontainhas, renowned for its vibrant houses perched precariously on cliffsides. This picturesque setting has been likened to a miniature "Cinque Terre," set amidst even more dramatic surroundings. It's astonishing to witness how homes have been constructed in such rugged terrain. Our journey culminates in the fishing village of Ponta do Sol, where we might observe daily life unfolding at the harbor before returning to our guesthouse in Vila das Pombas.
Today, we begin with breakfast at our host family's home before driving to Ribeira da Torre, a deep volcanic valley surrounded by cliffs. This area offers insight into the rural life and culture of its inhabitants. Our trail leads us, through cultivated fields of sugar cane and yams (a local vegetable used as a potato substitute) - towards the village of Rabo Curto. Along the way, we'll observe the intricate network of irrigation channels supporting local agriculture. After our hike, our driver will pick us up, and we'll return to Porto Novo via the "Estrada da Corda" or "Corda Road." This hand-built road, consisting of approximately 15 million cobblestones, winds through the mountains, offering breathtaking views of the island's diverse landscapes. Its name, meaning "rope road" aptly describes its winding nature. Back in Porto Novo, there may be time for a refreshing swim before we board the ferry to Mindelo. In the evening, we'll gather for a farewell dinner at a cozy local restaurant, perhaps indulging in a traditional seafood dish.
In the morning, we will be driven to the airport and wave goodbye to our skilled and friendly local guide. We will stay overnight at the Lisbon airport again.
We return home with great memories and amazing stories of how one island can have so many dimensions of nature.
Oslo - São Vicente, round trip.
Norwegian-speaking guide on programs with Norwegian language.
English-speaking local guide.
All transportation as specified in the program.
In a shared double room.
Meals as specified in the program.
For trips where flights are not included, please check our website to confirm that the departure is guaranteed before booking your own plane tickets. For each trip, we require a minimum number of confirmed participants before the departure can be guaranteed.
To local guides and assistants. Tips are a common and expected part of being a tourist in many of the destinations we visit. These are given in cash during the trip and therefore cannot be included in the trip price.
Available upon request, limited quantities.
In addition to those provided during included meals.
Request quotes from other cities in Norway
We reserve the right to change prices. The day by day program is indicative and changes may occur. We also refer to our general travel conditions.
On all our trips, we require you to have full health and accident insurance which will also cover any transport home. Read more about travel insurance.
For departures with Norrøna Adventure guides:
On our trips, it is important to understand that we often will be traveling far off the beaten track. We will, of course, do everything we can to assist if anything should happen, but a potential rescue operation can be demanding. It is therefore extremely important that all participants arrive well-prepared and ready to handle unforeseen situations.
We need to exert some effort to reach our destination. With a good level of fitness and determination, these journeys are manageable for the majority of participants. Being active in daily life is a beneficial preparation.
Simple to good quality inns, such as small family hotels, B&Bs and agrotourism (farmhouses), usually with private bathrooms.
Activities/trips with little risk. There are usually few incidents and they are usually of such a nature that they can be dealt with locally.
This is a moderate-level hike, featuring daily treks of up to six hours through occasionally rugged terrain. We maintain a relaxed pace, allowing ample time to appreciate the natural surroundings. The elevation gain can be up to 1,000 meters, so it's important to be prepared for the ascent and descent.
Luggage transport is provided, so you only need to carry a daypack during the daily hikes.
You should be accustomed to hiking and in generally good physical condition to participate. Longer hikes in the forest or "hut-to-hut" treks are excellent preparation.
Before embarking on our journey together, we kindly remind all trip participants to check their respective country's visa status and vaccination requirements. Ensuring your travel documents are in order is a crucial step in guaranteeing a smooth and hassle-free adventure.
Participants need a valid passport (normally valid for at least 6 months after the date of return). Check for your country's current visa rules.
If you are over 67 years old, you should have a thorough medical check-up before your trip. Make your doctor aware that this is a trip involving physical exertion and moving off the beaten track.
It is important that you complete all parts of the registration form (especially where we ask for information about health and allergies), and let us know if there is anything we need to be aware of prior to and during the trip. Relevant health information that may affect the trip should also be communicated to the guide at the start of the trip. *Note* - If you are on regular medication, have known allergies or anything similar, you must always bring your personal medication with you.
See the overview on FHI´s pages on travel health advice. For vaccination and guidance, please contact Sentrum Reisemedisin: Reisemedisin.no.
For trips where flights are not included, please check our website to confirm that the departure is guaranteed before booking your own plane tickets. For each trip, we require a minimum number of confirmed participants before the departure can be guaranteed.
We stay in a mix of charming hotels and guesthouses, with accommodations in twin rooms at all locations, spending two nights at each guesthouse. Our local hosts may not be fluent in English, but they are accustomed to international tourists, and it's surprising how well one can communicate with a smile and some body language.
It is not always easy to get hold of gluten-free wholemeal bread, lactose-free alternatives or to accommodate other food preferences. If you have any allergies, please let us know in the registration form and we will try to accommodate you as best we can. However, we would still recommend that anyone with special dietary needs bring some alternatives in the form of, for example, a packet of crispbread, energy bars or similar that you know you can eat.
This list is intended as a guideline, so that we have what we need regardless of the weather we get on the trip. Remember that you can also get used outdoor equipment that works perfectly. Get in touch if you have any questions. TIP: We recommend that you have the most important equipment in your hand luggage, for example hiking boots and gore-tex jacket/trousers.
Wool or synthetic. Avoid cotton.
We recommend thin wool.
Fleece or wool.
Waterproof jacket and pants.
Bring waterproof shoes/boots that you are familiar with.
Avoid bringing a suitcase, they are more difficult to transport between hotels.
In this pack, you’ll carry what you need during the day on the hike: extra clothes, food, water, snacks, etc. Remember a rain cover. Around 30 liters, give or take, is suitable.
Personal medicines and, for example, band-aids, blister plaster, sports tape, throat lozenges, nasal drops, Paracetamol/Ibuprofen, stomach regulators, etc.
We need to know about all medicines you are taking, in case something happens.
Tooth brush, tooth paste, small towel, ear plugs, wet wipes, biodegradable soap, etc.
You should be able to bring 2-3 litres of water.
Passport, tickets, bank card, proof of vaccination andproof of insurance. Remember to have a copy of important documents on your phone and/or somewhere in your bag.
Thin, ultra light.
For evenings and leasure days.
Hat or headband
Light. Have to be foldable or telescope.
Remember new/extra batteries.
As light at possible.
We recommend wearing hiking boots with ankle support. As many paths have hard surfaces, choose footwear with good cushioning and relatively soft soles to ensure comfort during your walks.
A volcanic island with a French touch
Rich days, orange wine and delicious food in the Caucasus
We can absolutely recommend this trip to others. Good information and follow-up from Norrøna in advance. Transport went smoothly both ways. Transport around the island, to and from accommodation sites and trips, went punctually. Good progression in the trip program, starting in the southwest and ending in the northeast of the island. A fantastic nature. And we were particularly impressed by the stone-paved roads and trails on the island, and all the stone-terraced fields. This is an island that is not characterized by mass tourism; it is an island for hikers. It is not a place for culinary experiences, but it was interesting to be served the local food. The local guide communicated knowledgeably about the island.
– Halstein. 2025
Hikes in scenery that takes your breath away. Endless ocean, stone-paved coastal trails, small villages, green plains, and lush valleys. Plenty of good fish, vegetables, and exotic fruit. The trip was well organized, and we got close to daily life in many places. Lots of sun and lovely warm weather in November.
– Øyvind, 2024
A fantastic week with a great variety of hikes. Limited tourism makes Santo Antão an attractive and exciting destination.
– Erik, 2022
An outstanding tour! The island's incredibly diverse landscapes encompass volcanic deserts, craters, canyons, deep valleys, and sharp peaks. In close proximity, you'll find pine forests and valleys resembling tropical rainforests. This remarkable variety makes Santo Antão a unique destination for nature enthusiasts.
– Rognald, 2022