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santo antao island shape

Santo Antao

The hiking paradise of Cape Verde

Discover the authentic beauty of Santo Antão, the greenest island of them all! Become one with nature, enjoy breathtaking views and get to know the island's tropical fauna and flora. Immerse yourself in the warm and open mentality of the people, unwind after a hike with the local Grogue and flow with the relaxed lifestyle...

Hike Santo antao island

A hidden gem in the ocean

With its vast valleys, impressive landscapes, green mountains and untamed coastlines Santo Antão is a true hiking paradise. Discover the stark contrast between the rough west and the greener north-east of the island.

 

The west is dry and sparse, with little rainfall. The north-east, on the other hand, is green and fertile. In this humid micro-climate you'll find green valleys dotted with tall palms, wild agave and pine trees. Banana, papaya and sugarcane plantations in terraces built up the hills complete the tropical picture.

Highlights of Santo Antão

  • Ponta do Sol: the first settlement on the island and now a colourful fishing village. One of the best places to watch the sunset over the ocean. 

  • Paul Valley: the most famous valley for hiking and sightseeing. Walk past the farmers terraces, sleep quietly in the mountains and try a local restaurant. This valley offers the most accommodations on the island.

  • Delgadinho: a stunning look out point on the Corda road between the 2 valleys of Ribeira Grande and Ribeira da Torre.

  • Ribeira Grande: the capital village with a well kept colonial centre, trade houses and narrow streets. Follow the mural paintings spread out in town and observe the local daily life. 

  • Tarrafal: the only accessible black beach sand on the island with a small fishing village and relaxed beach vibes. 

  • Topa de Coroa: this sleeping volcano is with its1979 meters the highest point on the island and a challenging hike uphill the black sand. 

  • Fontainhas: a beautiful mountain village located on the cliff hike Ponta do Sol-Cruzinha. 

  • Cova volcano crater: a flat place in the middle of the crater created a good place for agriculture. Look at Cova from the viewpoint or hike the crater and then down to Paul valley.

  • Xoxo: A photogenic stop at the end of the road in Ribeira da Torre. Close to the charming bar Melicia and a refreshing water tank/pool. 

Chiquinho cv interilhas

Transport to Santo Antão

The only way of getting to Santo Antao is by ferry from the neighbour island Sao Vicente. The 2 ferry companies (Armas & CV interilhas) connect Mindelo to Porto Novo and back 4 times a day. These are the current schedules (June 2023):

  • Mindelo - Porto Novo 07:00 & 08:00, 14:00 & 15:00 (mon-sat)

  • Porto Novo - Mindelo 09:00 & 10:00, 16:00 & 17:00 (mon-sat)

  • Slightly different time table on Sundays

 

A return ticket per adult costs1600 CVE (Nos Ferry June 2023) and can be bought in the harbour of Mindelo. Please bring your passport when booking.

1 hour ferry trip between Sao Vicente & Santo Antao

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Where to stay​

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