HIKING AND BATHING
IN THE SOUTH

Individual Hiking Tour

Santiago

Experience the diversity of Cape Verde’s main island: Santiago uniquely combines spectacular landscapes, cultural diversity and a beautiful beach. This trip combines five impressive hikes with relaxing days at one of the most beautiful bathing bays in the archipelago – ideal for anyone who wants to combine exercise in nature with relaxation by the sea. The capital, Praia, is not neglected either: with its colourful markets, colonial heritage and vibrant everyday life, it offers fascinating insights.
The hikes take you through fertile valleys and traditional villages, over ridges with far-reaching views and past spectacular mountain panoramas. Another highlight is a coastal hike, on which you always have the Atlantic in view and can experience the rugged beauty of the island particularly intensely. Look forward to impressive experiences of nature, cultural encounters and moments full of tranquillity and wide open space.

It is bookable throughout the year at the date of your choice!

DAY 1: SANTIAGO – Arrival in Cape Verde

Arrival at Santiago airport and transfer to your accommodation, which is located in the centre of the capital Praia. From here you can easily reach many shops, restaurants and bars on foot.

DAY 2: SANTIAGO – Capital Praia

After a late arrival, it’s time to take it easy today. After breakfast, you and your guide will get to know the historic part of the capital Praia. You will visit a colonial-style square and observe the hustle and bustle at the colourful fruit and vegetable market. Afterwards, you will visit the African-style Sucupira market, where you can buy almost anything.
The afternoon is at leisure. The small town beach Quebra Canela invites you to relax and take a dip in the sea.

DAY 3: SANTIAGO – Ribeira Grande Valley and Cidade Velha

Hike in the Ribeira Grande valley // approx. 2 hours // -200 m //
difficulty level 2-3

After breakfast, you drive to Calabaceira, the starting point of your first hike. You descend into the green Ribeira Grande valley before the trail leads you through the dry riverbed, past sugar cane, mango trees and baobabs. Later, you will get to know Cidade Velha, the country’s first capital. You visit the fort and take a walk through the small town.
Then transfer to Rui Vaz, where you move into your mountain accommodation. It is located on the edge of a national park with wonderful views of the surrounding mountains.

DAY 4: SANTIAGO – Near the mountain accommodation

Rui Vaz circular hike // approx. 4 hours // +/- 400 m // difficulty level 2-3

As part of your varied circular hike, you will get to know the surroundings of Rui Vaz. Impressive views, small villages and agricultural land …

Alternatively, it is possible to undertake a challenging hike to the secondary summit of Pico da Antónia.

Day 5: SANTIAGO – On the west coast

Hike to Ribeira da Barca // approx. 4 hours // +200 m / -370 m // difficulty level 2-3

This coastal hike takes you to the northwest of the main island. From Águas Belas (“Beautiful Waters”), you walk along the rugged coast past an impressive surf cave, basalt islands and an oasis to the small fishing village of Ribeira Barca. The landscapes are partly reminiscent of the wide African savanna and thus form a great contrast to the other areas you will get to know during this trip.

Day 6: SANTIAGO – The Serra Malagueta

Hike in the Serra Malagueta // approx. 3 hours // +340 m / -470 m // difficulty level 3

You are already familiar with the first mountain range around Rui Vaz, but today you will also be impressed by the Serra Malagueta. Dreamlike landscapes, diverse vegetation and remote settlements are your companions along the way. On the way, you will enjoy a typical lunch in a simple farmhouse.

Day 7: SANTIAGO – Through the Gom Gom valley

Hike through the Gom Gom valley // approx. 5 hours // +220 m / -1,000 m // difficulty level 3

At the end of your 5-day tour, one of Santiago’s most spectacular hikes awaits you, which is very reminiscent of Santo Antão. First, you’ll hike uphill through eucalyptus and pine forests before descending to the north coast of the island. The views are breathtaking.

Day 8: SANTIAGO – Relaxation in Tarrafal

On which Cape Verdean island can you combine spectacular landscapes with relaxation on a beautiful beach? Exactly, on the main island of Santiago! In Tarrafal, in the north, there is a small, bright sandy beach framed by palm trees.

A charming guest house is provided in Tarrafal, which matches the authentic character of a hiking trip.
If you want more comfort, you can of course also choose higher-quality accommodation – such as the Hotel Viajante (3 stars) or the 4-star King Fisher Village and Hotel Oasis Tarrafal Alfândega Suites.

Days 9 + 10: SANTIAGO – Relaxation in Tarrafal

Day 11: SANTIAGO – Relaxation in Tarrafal

You have another full day in Tarrafal at your disposal. In the evening, transfer to Santiago airport.

Who we are:

We are a Cape Verde–based travel agency with over 20 years of experience organising round trips across all the Cape Verde islands. Our international team combines deep local knowledge with the reliability and clear communication standards international travellers expect.

By working directly with trusted local partners, accommodations, drivers and guides, we ensure seamless connections between islands and authentic travel experiences. We also provide on-the-ground support throughout your trip, offering flexibility and peace of mind while travelling between islands.

Our multilingual team speaks English, German, French and Portuguese, assisting travellers from the UK, Europe and around the world from the first enquiry to the end of their journey.

What you can expect from us:

• Competent advice on planning your trip
• Consideration of your individual wishes when creating the travel offer
• Carefully selected accommodation and drivers
• Qualified English speaking guides
• Varied excursions
• Detailed travel documents
• A 24-hour service number on-site during your trip

Services included in the travel price

• 10 nights in a double room with breakfast, including accommodation tax
• Day room on the 11th day of travel until transfer time
• Other meals: 4x packed lunch, 1x lunch, 4x dinner
• Programme as described*: 2x city tour with guide, 5x hike with guide; for your information: guides speak English
  *For your information: the programme can be done together with other travellers.
• All airport, port and all other transfers as per itinerary
• Our 24-hour emergency number

Not Included Services

• Airport Tax TSA
• International flights.
  *You are welcome to book your international flights through us from an airport near you.

Request personalized offer
(free, no obligation):

Hiking and bathing in the south