Sister Islands
Come and experience the heart of São Vicente and Santo Antão, two beautiful islands in Cabo Verde, where the warmth of the local community is waiting to welcome you. This is more than just a trip—it’s an invitation to connect with people, culture, and traditions that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.
Imagine wandering through the vibrant markets of Mindelo in São Vicente, where the air is filled with the sounds of music and laughter. You’ll meet locals who are eager to share their stories, their smiles, and their way of life. Taste freshly prepared dishes made with love, using recipes that have been passed down through generations—whether it’s a bowl of hearty catchupa or a sip of grogue, each meal tells a story of the islands’ history and heart.
In Santo Antão, life moves at a slower, more peaceful pace. The towering mountains and green valleys offer breathtaking views, but it’s the people you meet along the way who will truly make your journey special. As you walk through small villages or hike the stunning trails, you’ll encounter locals who live close to the land and are eager to share their traditions with you.
This journey isn’t just about seeing the sights—it’s about creating memories, feeling the island’s rhythm, and immersing yourself in a culture that’s as warm as its people. Whether you’re enjoying a meal prepared with love or simply chatting with someone who calls these islands home, you’ll discover a connection that runs deeper than a simple visit.
By the time you return to the ferry, your heart will be full—not just from the stunning views, but from the moments shared and the new friendships formed. These are the kind of experiences that stay with you, long after the trip is over. And when you think back on your time in São Vicente and Santo Antão, it won’t just be about the places you saw—it’ll be about the people who made you feel like you belonged.
Rout
Day 1 – Arrival in São Vicente
Welcome by our team at Cesaria Evora Airport. Transfer to Mindelo and check-in at your hotel in the city center. Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity to enjoy Laginha Beach. In the evening, we will visit a Capoeira school, where you will be introduced to the secrets of this Afro-Brazilian martial art dance. Afterward, dinner is included at a local restaurant with Cape Verdean live music. Overnight at Residencial Mimagui.
Day 2 – City Tour and Island Excursion/Snorkeling with Turtles
Your guide will pick you up from the hotel for a full-day 7-hour tour of São Vicente, starting in Mindelo. Visit colonial buildings and markets, explore Calhau Valley and the fishing village of Salamansa, relax at Baía das Gatas Beach, and see the Sahara Desert’s sand dunes. In the afternoon, snorkel with turtles at the fishing village of São Pedro. At the end of the day, return to your accommodation. Overnight at Residencial Mimagui.
Breakfast and lunch included.
Day 3 – Santo Antão, The Mountains Call
Transfer to the harbor in Mindelo for a short ferry ride to Santo Antão, followed by a scenic drive to Cova Natural Park at over 1000 meters. Hike to the edge of the extinct volcanic crater, with stunning views of the Paul Valley. Descend through seasonal plantations of sugarcane, bananas, mangoes, coffee, breadfruit, and more. Overnight at the family-run Residencial Lela de Firmina in Paul Valley.
Walking time: approx. 5 hours, 7 km, ascent 450 m, descent 1000 m.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Day 4 – Between Valleys: Chã de Pedras Valley – Chã de Igreja
After breakfast, take a minibus transfer from the Paul Valley to the stunning Chã d’Pedras Valley. Follow a beautiful balcony trail towards Ribeirão Valley and continue with a panoramic climb to Caibros Valley. In the afternoon, transfer to the welcoming village of Chã de Igreja for your next accommodation. Overnight at the family-run Pension Adilsa in Chã de Igreja.
Walking time: approx. 3 hours, 5 km, ascent 450 m, descent 450 m.
Breakfast and dinner included.
Day 5 – From Chã de Igreja to Ponta do Sol
Hike along old coastal paths with ocean views. We pass through remote hamlets where time seems to have stood still and meet water carriers and mule caravans. We cross the fishing village of Cruzinha, the abandoned village of Aranhas, take a break in Formiguinhas, pass the Crossroad in Corvo, and nearly finish at the beautiful village of Fontainhas perched on the hills. Overnight at the family-run Pension Casa Cecilio.
Walking time: approx. 5 hours, 17 km, ascent 550 m, descent 550 m.
Breakfast and lunch included.
Day 6 – Xoxo Valley Hike
Today, we discover Ribeira da Torre Valley, one of the most beautiful valleys in Santo Antão. The locals cultivate bananas and native vegetables like yams, cassava, and various fruits. This moderate hike provides fascinating insights into the unique heart of the landscape. We pass agricultural terraces and small waterfalls, all in harmony with nature. Overnight at Pension Casa Cecilio.
Walking time: approx. 3 hours, 4.5 km, ascent 400 m, descent 400 m.
Breakfast and dinner included.
Day 7 – Bizarre Gorges and Cliffs/Return to Mindelo
The day starts with breakfast to recharge. Transfer along the coast to Ribeira das Patas, resembling an oasis. Arriving in Altomira, we explore the island’s deep gorges and surreal basalt cliffs. After a traditional lunch in Ribeira das Patas, we return to São Vicente. Overnight at Residencial Mindelo.
Walking time: approx. 3 hours, 7 km, ascent 550 m, descent 250 m.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Day 8 – Departure for Home
Transfer to the airport according to your flight schedule.
Breakfast included.
Price
1300 € p.p
min. 2 Pax / max. 14 Pax (in double room or twin)
Included in the price
⦁ 7 nights: 6th in a family-run residence in a double room with shower/toilet, 1 night in simple private quarters with shared shower and toilet
⦁ Ferry tickets from São Vicente to Santo Antão and back
⦁ All transfers in minibuses or taxis
⦁ Luggage transport throughout the trip
⦁ Cape Verde hotel tax
⦁ 8 x breakfast, 5 x dinner, 4 x lunches, capoeira show
⦁ Snorkeling with turtles
⦁ Travel program with 7 guided hikes and programs( English, German, French, Portuguese and Spanish)
This price does not include
⦁ international flight tickets,
⦁ lunches and dinners that are not listed in the program
⦁ drinks (water and others)
⦁ tips
⦁ airport security tax
⦁ repatriation insurance
Does this quote suit you?
If the quote suits you, the next step is to confirm your booking. To ensure that you can fully enjoy this dream trip, we invite you to contact us quickly. Once you have confirmed your booking, we will be able to proceed with the booking of all the services included in your travel program.