Serra Malagueta Panorama Day Trek

Difficulty

Challenging

Duration

6h

Group size

1-8 tourists,
over 16 y.o.

This is an unforgettable adventure from Tarrafal into the lush heart of Santiago Island. Your journey begins in the green haven of Serra Malagueta Natural Park, where you’ll hike from 800 to 1,064 meters through untouched landscapes filled with endemic flora and fauna. Enjoy sweeping views over Assomada, the Principal canyon, and—on clear days—the distant islands of Fogo and Maio. After a peaceful forest picnic, continue along ridges offering breathtaking 360° panoramas before descending to the charming village of Mato Correia. Conclude your experience with a visit to the unique Rabelados community, guardians of Cape Verde’s oldest traditions, before returning comfortably to Tarrafal.

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

Explore Serra Malagueta Natural Park

Experience the untouched natural beauty, rich in endemic flora and fauna, while enjoying breathtaking views

Breathtaking 360-Degree Views

You'll be treated to incredible panoramic views of two lush valleys

Visit the Rabelados Community

You'll learn about their ancient customs and beliefs

Route details

Departing from your accommodation in Tarrafal, head towards the interior of the island with your first stop at Serra Malagueta. Upon arriving at the Natural Park, one of the island's greenest areas, begin your walk from an elevation of 800 meters, immersing yourself in the rich local fauna and flora as you ascend to 1064 meters. The trails are mostly flat and showcase various endemic plants and animals, offering stunning views of Assomada, the Principal Canyon, and, on clear days, the islands of Fogo and Maio. After two hours of exploration, enjoy a picnic in the forest.

Continue your journey from the mountaintop, where you'll experience breathtaking 360-degree views between two lush valleys, until you reach Mato Correia Village. There, visit the Rabelados Community, known for its thatched houses and preservation of Cape Verde's oldest customs and beliefs. The tour concludes with a return to your accommodation in Tarrafal.

Difficulty

Challenging

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

Tour provider's comments

Not recommended for people with back problems
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for people with heart conditions
Note that this is a difficult hike and is suitable for travelers in great physical shape.
Suitable for walkers with some fitness and no health problems
Route File: Trail Distance: +/- 11, 5 km || Total Walking Duration: +/- 4 hours  || Degree of difficulty: Difficult || Elevation gain: +/- 265m  || Elevation loss: -/+ 1000 m ||  Max Elevation: +/- 1045m  || Min Elevation: +/-  120m ||  Trail type: One Way || Path quality: flat surface and safe.