EVENT: Walking in Cape Verde - Santiago Island and Fogo Island

DATE OF REALISATION: 3 to 10 April 2026

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: 31 DECEMBER 2025 - Bonus price until then!

NOTE: MAXIMUM GROUP OF 16 PARTICIPANTS AND EXCLUSIVE

EVENT DESCRIPTION: “Walking in Cape Verde: Santiago Island and Fogo Island“

In this activity proposal we will hike and enjoy a unique experience on the island of Santiago and Fogo, with the possibility of ascending to the summit of the 2829 metre high Fogo Volcano, the highest point in Cape Verde. Santiago Island, Cape Verde's largest, is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, vibrant culture and fascinating history. From the verdant mountains of the Serra Malagueta to the crystal-clear waters of beaches like Tarrafal, every corner of the island holds a unique beauty. The island of Fogo is an adventure that takes you to Chã das Caldeiras, a volcanic valley, surrounded by imposing lava walls, at the base of Pico do Fogo. Come with us on an unforgettable journey!

These will be some of the most important places on our itinerary: 

• Hike in Chã das Caldeiras to the Volcano Crater, with the possibility for those wishing to climb to the highest point of the Fogo Volcano - distance: around 7 kms with a 300 metre difference in altitude
• Visit to Portela and the Biosphere Reserve Interpretation Centre
• Chã das Caldeiras Walk, Monte Velha Forest and Mosteiros - 17 kms
  Stroll through the city of São Filipe - a walk that breathes history... (Town Hall Square, NS da Conceição Church, Serpa Pinto Square, Fort Carlota, Alberto da Silva Square, etc)
• Hike to Pico D'Antónia (highest point on Santiago Island - 1394 metres) - 9 kms
• Tour of the village of Picos and Orgãos
• Visit to the former Tarrafal concentration camp / Resistance Museum
• Walk from Ribeira Principal to Serra da Malagueta - 7 kms
• Stroll in the city of Praia
• Longueira Trail Walk - 12 kms
• Stroll around the Old Town (NS do Rosário Church, Pelourinho, São Filipe Royal Fort, Rua da Banana, etc.)
• Calabaceira Walk to the Old Town - 6 kms
• Unique experiences as a plunge into local daily life: Thrill-seekers can climb to the top of the still smoking 1995 eruption of the Volcano of Fogo; Spend a day exploring the craters and ancient volcano cones filled with papaya, cashew and banana trees; A memorable afternoon at Casa Ramiro, where locals play, sing and serve goat's cheese accompanied by Manecom wine - a moment of direct and genuine cultural sharing; In São Filipe, visitors can also learn more about what life was like on the island over the last 200 years at Casa da Memoria; Watching the Atlantic Ocean and experiencing the unique energy of this natural corner; Photographing the sunset over the sea and neighbouring Brava - a simply magical spectacle; Being able to see examples of traditional stone houses along the way, taking the opportunity to learn about the daily life of the farmers; Taking part in an afternoon of Funaná in Santa Cruz (especially in Pedra Badejo) is to immerse yourself in the vibrant soul of Cape Verde - an invitation to rhythm, history and community celebration. With live music with accordion (“gaita”) and ferrinho, intense percussion - irresistible for dancing; Participate in a lunch typical of the region; Appreciate local life and learn more about agricultural practices and when you arrive in Cidade Velha, the first European city in the tropics, you'll be ready to explore some of its historic sites.
• Natural landscapes

TIME: Departure from Lisbon at 9am
RETURN: Arrival in Lisbon at 6.30 p.m.

Chã das Caldeiras

Situated in the centre of the enormous crater of the Pico do Fogo volcano, the small village of Cha das Caldeiras is the highest village in Cape Verde. Known for its isolation, spectacular surroundings and quality wine production, this charming village is well worth a visit. After being destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 2014, it was rebuilt by locals who feel a close connection to the place - often building on top of the lava that covers old houses. Thrill-seekers can climb to the top of the still smoking 1995 eruption. You can explore the craters and ancient volcano cones filled with papaya, cashew and banana trees, and watch the glorious spread of bright stars at night. We'll visit Portela, in Chã das Caldeiras, and immerse ourselves in some of the most extraordinary scenery, which shows the resilience of the villages on this piece of land with unique landscapes. with a Biosphere Reserve Interpretation Centre, with panels, multimedia games and virtual reality to put the island's fauna, flora, geodiversity and culture into context.

St Philip

São Filipe is the capital of Fogo Island, situated on its west coast. The charming town still displays remnants of its colonial past. Here, among cobbled streets and brightly painted squares, visitors will find beautiful examples of the “Sobrado” architecture brought to the island by the Portuguese. A series of scenic black sand beaches, such as Ponta da Salina and Porto de Vale de Cavaleiros, are easily accessible from the town. Those who like coffee, art and culture should head to Galeria Dja ‘r Fogo to taste the artisan coffee made on the family-run plantation here since 1874 and enjoy the centre's exhibitions and guided tours. Visitors can also find out more about what life was like on the island over the last 200 years at the Casa da Memoria.

Tarrafal

Situated in the northern part of Santiago Island, Cape Verde, Tarrafal is a picturesque fishing port with the most beautiful and unspoilt beaches on the island and many excellent snorkelling opportunities. With its mountainous, green backdrop, sheltered cove and crystal clear, calm, turquoise waters, the beach is a perfect paradise for swimming, water sports or simply relaxing. There are also several marvellous restaurants and accommodation options. The town also has a darker history as a concentration camp, but now features many interesting memorials. The Tarrafal Concentration Camp Museum, housed in the former camp, founded in 1936, which operated until 1956 as an anti-fascist penal camp and was reopened between 1962 and 1974 for anti-colonialist prisoners.

Beach

Situated on the south coast of Santiago Island, the bustling city of Praia is the capital of the Cape Verde Islands. As the economic, political and cultural centre of Cape Verde, Praia offers a wonderful combination of heritage, beaches and community activities. Historic buildings worth seeing include the colonial town hall, the classicist cathedral, the grand presidential palace and the old city wall, complete with cannons. Fascinating museums in the city include the Sala-Museu Amílcar Cabral, which commemorates the freedom fighter Amílcar Cabral, and the Museu Etnográfico de Praia, containing traditional Cape Verdean artefacts. For those looking to sunbathe, swim and relax, Praia Quebra Canela offers large stretches of white sandy beaches and inviting water, surrounded by some delicious bars and restaurants. Praia da Prainha is clean and close to the city centre. With a distinctly African character, one of the town's main attractions is its excellent market, selling fresh produce and other products.

NOTE: MAXIMUM GROUP OF 16 PARTICIPANTS AND EXCLUSIVE

Equipment: Suitable footwear and clothing for walking and hiking

Registration fee:

Price includes:

- Transport to the locations of each point on the tour and accommodation
- 7 nights' accommodation (5 nights in a 4-star hotel and 2 nights in a residence with excellent conditions)
- All breakfasts included
- 6 Lunches (drinks not included)
- 6 hikes around the 2 islands
- Inter-island flights
- Tourist tax
- TSA (Airport Security Tax)
- Tours and visits as mentioned in the programme
- The proposed accommodation option includes various room types
- Walks with local guides and accompaniment
- Compulsory travel insurance

Price does not include:

- Lisbon-Cape Verde flights
- All meals not specified
- All items not mentioned under “Included”

REQUIRED:

- Passport valid for more than 6 months at the time of travel

1250€ (Price per person in a double room with Travel Insurance with Cancellation))
1600€ (Price per person in single room with travel insurance with cancellation)
Entry fee for seat reservation: 50€

FLIGHT INFORMATION:

Flight price with TAP from Lisbon plus €635 with 23kg suitcase, plus cabin bag and personal item. Flight times: Departure at 9am on 3 April and return at 6.30pm on 10 April.

You can check prices with other airlines and once your trip has been confirmed you can buy your own plane ticket.

Prices valid until 31 December 2025. From dai  100€ per participant

Notes: 

a) Programme developed in partnership with a local travel agency

b) Registrations are limited and accommodation options are subject to availability at the time of booking.

c) If you have a group interested in this trip, contact us, we have personalised solutions.