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Overview

Our Cape Verde walking holiday on Santiago is an exciting, busy and varied walking holiday.

The private-guided week includes day walks which vary from three to seven hours, through a mixture of high mountains, fertile valleys and forests.

You’ll have the opportunity to climb Santiago’s highest peak, Pico d’Antonio (1392m), walk around the beautiful Malagueta Natural Park, and visit the fascinating coastal town of Cidade Velha.

You will be staying in three very different places on the island: just outside the mountain town Assomada; the idyllic harbour and beach town of Tarrafal on the north coast; and Cape Verde’s bustling, African-feeling capital city of Praia.

Most meals are included on this Cape Verde walking holiday on Santiago and as it’s a private trip just for you, our guides will be able to tailor the routes according to the conditions and your needs.

 

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Gallery

Itinerary

Day 1

Depart Heathrow and fly via Lisbon to Santiago in Cape Verde. On arrival transfer to Hotel Oasis Praia Mar where you stay for two nights.

Day 2

This morning you will be picked up by your guide and driven Calabaciera where you start you walk to Cidade Velha. Hike through the fertile ribeiras and sugar cane fields to Cidade Velha in around three hours, where you also have your lunch. Your guide will then take you on a historical stroll to Rua Banana, the Nossa Senhora do Rosario church and the Pelourinho (pillory). You may also wish to visit the fort which overlooks the bay. Return to your hotel and have the rest of the day free

Day 3

Very early morning drive to the start of your walk to climb Pico d'Antonio (1392m) - the highest peak on Santiago. There are several ways to reach the top of Pico d' Antonio and you can discuss the most suitable options with your guide. The path to the top is not clear and you need to be sure-footed on the loose rock. The walk is difficult and takes up to 6 hours. Lunch is included and at the end of your walk, you will be transferred to the Pousada Vassora where you stay for two nights.

Day 4

Accompanied by your guide you visit the colourful African market in Assomada, where not only fruit and vegetables are being sold, but also chickens and other livestock. You will then be driven to the Serra Malagueta Natural Park where you walk the moderate and very scenic Gongon trail (4hrs). The first part of the walk takes you to the ridge where you have great views of the plains below you. For here the walk is mainly downhill, so bring your walking poles as it can be hard on your knees. The views along this green and verdant valley are pretty amazing until you reach the village of Hortolao, where your transfer will be waiting for you. A packed lunch is included.

Day 5

From your Pousada, walk with your guide down a shallow Ribeira to Boa Entrada and the famous Poilao (Kapok tree). This magnificent tree is home to a colony of Purple Heron, a bird endemic to Santiago. You'll be picked up and transferred to the small fishing town of Tarrafal in the north of the island. Stay at the Residence Tarrafal for two nights.

Day 6

Free day to relax. Why not go to the lovely cove and its white sandy beach near the main square, where there is always lots going on. It's very popular with locals and a safe bathing and swimming spot. Or watch the fisherman come on shore with their daily catch.

Day 7

Return to Praia with your guide and en-route to the Hotel Oasis Atlantico Praiamar, visit the bustling plateau in Praia and crowded Sukopira market. You will be dropped off near the main square which is surrounded by some impressive buildings like the old Catholic cathedral and the nearby Palace of the Council, the Presidential Palace and the Palace of Justice. Don't forget to take a picture of the statue of Diogo Gomes who after all was one of the people who discovered Cape Verde.

Day 8

Free day (day room only) until it is time for your late night transfer to the airport for your overnight flight home via Lisbon.

From £2,100 per person

We can create a tailor-made holiday to suit your budget.

INCLUDED: International flights (guide price), accommodation in twin share, en-suite rooms on a breakfast only basis throughout, dinner is included at Pousada Vassoura. Return airport transfers on Santiago. 5 x guided walks / excursions as per the itinerary. Visas, support from our team in Cape Verde, and air ticket reconfirmation (if required). EXCLUDED: Meals not specified above and insurance. Additional excursions on free days.

Accommodation

The combination of accommodation we choose for your trip is part of the key to an unforgettable holiday. Throughout your trip you will be staying in some of the most amazing places. From a tastefully designed Pousada to a simple but comfortable hotel on the coast - Santiago has some great accommodation choices and the hotels on this trip have been specially selected for you. All the accommodation will be on B&B basis apart from the more remote places where dinner will be included.

Pousada Vassora Delightful family run boutique style Pousada on the outskirts of Assomada
Hotel Oasis Atlantico Praiamar Attractive hotel overlooking Praia Beach with excellent breakfasts

Activities

We have included five interesting walks on this Santiago walking holiday. Most are suitable for all ages, but many can be adapted to your abilities and experience. If you'd like to try some other activities whilst you're here we're more than happy to arrange these for you.

Guided walking in Cape Verde We offer fantastic Guided walking holidays in Cape Verde. Most routes on…

Location

On this privately-guided Santiago walking holiday you'll be staying in three different places on Santiago; just outside Assomada, Tarrafal on the north coast, and Cape Verde's capital Praia.

Santiago in Cape Verde The most African of all the islands, Santiago is a melting pot…

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