The second largest island in Cape Verde is also called the island of mountains. The authenticity that you can experience on this island is unique. In addition to being a perfect island for hiking, this is also a good place for nature lovers and those looking to follow scenic routes.

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It's hard not to be amazed by the stunning landscape of Santo Antão. It's green and the landscape is spectacular. The island is known as a good hiking destination for good reason. Whether you're looking for a multi-day hike or a modest trek, Santo Antão has it all.

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The south and west side of the island is much drier, but has spectacular areas with volcanic landscapes, mountains, lunar landscapes, beaches, etc.

 

Paúl Valley

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The Paúl Valley stretches from the coastal village of Vila das Pombas to the Cova crater and is undoubtedly the most visited by hiking and nature lovers.

This is one of the most beautiful landscapes in the Cape Verde islands. Due to its microclimate and the levadas – constructed irrigation channels – a layer of water remains in the river and in the side channels throughout the year. This creates a green valley where many vegetables, fruits, sugarcane, etc. are grown.

Due to the differences in altitude of this valley and the beautiful views, the Paul Valley is a paradise for beautiful walks. As you walk through the valley you will pass through small villages such as Eito, Passagem and Cabo da Ribeira.

The road that goes up from the coast ends at Cabo da Ribeira, where one of the most popular trails on the island begins, which goes up to the Cova crater.

In the Ribeira do Paul valley and in other places of Santo Antão you can find and visit many small Grogue distilleries called “Trapiches”.

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Ribeira Grande

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The village of Ribeira Grande, also known as the town. There you will find several beautiful colonial buildings.

It is also worth highlighting the presence of restaurants, pharmacies, banks, restaurants, small markets and shops.

It is located on the northeast coast of the island, and two rivers converge there, Ribeira Grande and Ribeira da Torre.

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Ribeira da Torre

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Along with the Pául Valley, it is the greenest and most exuberant area of ​​the island. A valley full of green mountains, water, waterfalls, agriculture, small villages, etc.

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​ Ideal for ecological trails, such as the popular one that goes from Xoxô to the Cova crater, or the one that goes down from the Espongeiro viewpoint.

 

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Ponta do Sol

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A small fishing village located in the far north, it is one of the oldest cities on the island.

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​ It has a small historic center with 19th century colonial architecture, with highlights including the City Hall building and the Church of Nossa Senhora do Livramento. Also very interesting is the pier, originally built in the 18th century, which closes the mouth of the small port.

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​ It is a great option to spend the night and start the walk to Fontainhas or Cruzinhas / Chã de Igreja.

 

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​Fontaínhas

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Fontaínhas is a picturesque village with colorful little houses. It is located on the cliffs west of Ponta do Sol and is best explored on foot. It overlooks a deep valley with a magnificent view of the ocean.

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According to National Geographic, it is one of the villages in the world with the most beautiful views.

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An unmissable village!

 

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Sinagoga

 

Sinagoga is a village in the municipality of Ribeira Grande, in the north of the island. It is located on the Ribeira Grande and Paúl highway.

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​ The name of the village is a reflection of the settlement of Jewish settlers on this island in the 18th century. In the village you can also see the ruins of an old leper hospital.

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​ Sinagoga is popular for its natural pools and black sand beach.

 

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Porto Novo

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It is the entry point to the island with arrival by ferry from the island of São Vicente.

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​ From here we can travel by road to different points on the island, either to the north (Paúl, Ribeira Grande, Ponta do Sol, etc.) or to the south (Ribeira das Patas, Tarrafal, etc.).

 

We can also follow the old road that goes up to the Cova crater (from there we can go down the magnificent route that takes us to the Paúl Valley). The road continues through the villages of Espongeiro and Corda, passing several viewpoints and the incredible narrow Delgadim pass, until reaching the city of Ribeira Grande, in the northern part of the island.

 

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Tarrafal

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Sheltered and isolated, this fishing village sits at the foot of a mountain. Come here in search of peace and to relax from your busy life. But to get there you can drive from Porto Novo to Tarrafal along a spectacular road as you head inland. The views along the way are magnificent.

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The area around Tarrafal is green and has the largest (black) sand beach in Santo Antão. Enjoy the beautiful walks, waterfalls and colorful fishing boats on the beach. Or spot sea turtles, whales, rays or dolphins. Tarrafal Bay is located close to the migration route of these animals.

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In Tarrafal Bay you can swim well and it is a great place for snorkeling, diving or fishing.