A Day in Santiago's Heart

Difficulty

Challenging

Duration

6h

Group size

1-8 tourists,
over 16 y.o.

Join us on an unforgettable adventure from Praia to the breathtaking Monte Tchota Natural Park. Your journey begins at 1000 meters above sea level, where untouched landscapes and endemic wildlife await. Hike up to 4.2 km through lush trails toward the summit of Pico D’Antónia, the highest point on Santiago Island at 1394 meters. Enjoy a well-deserved picnic with panoramic views—on clear days, catch a glimpse of distant Fogo Island and its iconic volcano.

Descend through dramatic rock paths and vibrant agricultural fields of corn, mango, coffee, and tomatoes. Wander past traditional homes carved into Longueira’s mountainside and meet a local family for an authentic glimpse into island life.

Your day ends with a comfortable drive back to Praia, filled with memories of nature, culture, and stunning island scenery.

National Park Tours

Admilson G. is the provider of this trip

The provider speaks: English, Spanish, French, Portuguese

While working at a hotel on Santiago Island, I noticed that many guests sought unique local experiences. With over a decade in event planning, I began introducing clients to my family and my mother’s traditional Cuscuz. This simple idea led to the co-founding of our travel company, now a leader in custom holidays and tours in Cape Verde. We aim to provide exceptional experiences with a focus on social and environmental responsibility, fostering rural tourism and supporting local economies.

View Admilson`s tours

Tour highlights

Hike to Pico D'Antónia

The adventure includes a challenging hike to Pico D'Antónia, the highest point on Santiago Island at 1,394 m

Explore Monte Tchota Natural Park

Discover endemic plants and bird species of the Natural Park

Cultural Interaction

Engage with a local family and learn about their daily life

Route details

Your day begins with a short drive from your accommodation in Praia to Monte Tchota Natural Park, situated at an altitude of 1,000 meters. Here, your hiking adventure commences as you explore the pristine park, observing and learning about endemic plants and birds. You'll hike 4.2 km to the summit of Pico D'Antónia, the highest point on Santiago Island at 1,394 meters. Take a well-deserved picnic break while enjoying breathtaking views, and if the weather is clear, you might catch a glimpse of Fogo Island and its distant volcano.

Afterward, you'll descend the rocky terrain and walk through agricultural fields growing corn, mangoes, coffee, and tomatoes, depending on the season. Next, stroll through the local houses carved into Longueira's mountain, visit a local family, and gain insight into their daily life. Finally, return to Praia where your tour concludes with drop-off at your accommodation.

Difficulty

Challenging

Does not require specific skills, but one must be in a good physical shape

Tour provider's comments

Suitable for walkers with some fitness and no health problems.

Note that this is a difficult hike and is suitable for travellers in great physical shape.

Route File: Trail Distance: +/- 9 km  || Total Walking Duration: +/- 4 - 5 hours  || Degree of difficulty: Difficult || Elevation gain: +/- 660 m  || Elevation loss: -/+ 1280 m  || Max Elevation: +/- 1400 m  || Min Elevation: +/- 485 m  || Trail type: One Way || Path quality: tilty, narrow.

It's important to know

What's included?

pickup and drop-off at your accommodation in Praia;
transportation;
tour guide (English, French, Portuguese and Spanish);
liability insurance;
picnic (soft juice, sandwich and fruit).

We strongly advise wearing hiking pants, especially from August to November. Additionally, bring hiking shoes and walking sticks as some trails may require level 1 climbing. Don't forget to wear a hat, apply sunscreen, and carry water.

Please let us know if you have any dietary restrictions for the included picnic.

Shared group tour option is subject to a minimum of 2 participants. In the event that the minimum number is not met, we reserve the right to propose an alternative date; to charge an extra fee to run the trip privately or to cancel a customer's booking for a full refund.