Ribeira Grande: Hike and Swim Experience

Difficulty

Challenging

Duration

6h

Group size

1-8 tourists,
over 16 y.o.

🌄 Explore the Wonders of Santo Antão! 🌄

Begin your adventure with a pick-up from your accommodation and journey to Faja da Cima, also known as Água das Caldeiras. Ascend to 1,480 meters and traverse stunning trails that wind through lush agricultural terraces and charming villages.

Marvel at the beauty of Ribeira de Torre, the island's most picturesque valley, where locals cultivate sugar cane and vibrant fruit trees. Experience nature up close with a visit to a stunning waterfall and a refreshing dip in a natural swimming pool.

After two and a half hours of hiking, reach Chu Chu (Xoxo) village for panoramic views of Ribeira Grande. On your descent, discover banana and coffee plantations before concluding your adventure at a local rum distillery, Grogue. 🍃✨

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

Stunning Scenic Views

The diverse landscapes, including cultivated terraces and dramatic hills, will provide a visual feast

Local Distillery Visit

You will learn about the rum production process and taste this traditional beverage

Cultural Immersion

Experience the lifestyle of the residents who are engaged in sugar cane and fruit cultivation

Route details

You will be picked up from your accommodation and taken to Faja da Cima, also known as Água das Caldeiras, situated at an altitude of 1,480 meters.

Begin your hike by following the trail up to Rabo Curto, passing through cultivated agricultural terraces and quaint homes until you reach the village of Lombo de Pedra. Here, you'll encounter narrow paths that weave between rocks and clouds.

Continue your journey across the hills towards Ribeira de Torre, recognized as the most stunning valley in Santo Antão, where locals engage in sugar cane cultivation, fruit farming, and small-scale trade.

After approximately two and a half hours, you will arrive at Chu Chu (Xoxo) village, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Ribeira Grande valley.

Next, you'll pass by a beautiful waterfall, and if the weather allows, you can take a refreshing swim in the nearby natural pool. As you descend towards Ribeira Grande, you'll see numerous banana and coffee plantations. At the end of your trek, you'll have the opportunity to visit a local rum distillery known as Grogue (rum production occurs from January 1st to May 31st). Finally, you will be taken back to your accommodation.

Difficulty

Challenging

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

Tour provider's comments

Not recommended for those who are afraid of heights.