Winding Paths and Hidden Valleys of Santo Antão

Difficulty

Challenging

Duration

6h

Group size

1-15 tourists,
over 16 y.o.

Experience the charm of scattered houses, lush banana plantations, and a historic windmill as you stroll along the riverbed. After an hour, arrive at Coculi Village, home to the stunning Santo Crucifixo parish church. Discover the rich local fauna and flora with your knowledgeable guide as you navigate through sugarcane fields to a remarkable aqueduct built in 1956.

Pause for a delightful picnic at Boca das Ambas Ribeiras, where breathtaking valley views await. Continue your journey along a picturesque cobbled path to Selado do Mocho, then catch a glimpse of Chã da Igreja.

Your adventure culminates with a 2.5-hour hike along volcanic rocks to the serene fishing village of Cruzinha, offering stunning ocean vistas.

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

Coastal Hike to Cruzinha

Experience the tranquility of the seaside environment

Coculi Village and Cultural Insights

Enrich your understanding of the region's biodiversity

Boca das Ambas Ribeiras

Enjoy a picnic with breathtaking views of the valley floor below

Route details

This walk starts in the Ribeira Grande riverbed, passing scattered homes, banana fields, and a large windmill used for water collection. After about an hour, you reach Coculi, known for its striking Santo Crucifixo parish church. The route continues toward the second Ribeira Grande, where your guide introduces the local flora and fauna. You’ll then cross sugarcane fields to a slim Portuguese-built aqueduct from 1956 that still functions today.

Another 30 minutes brings you to the small village of Boca das Ambas Ribeiras (“Mouth of Both Valleys”), where you can enjoy a picnic with dramatic views over the valley floor. The trail then winds down a zigzagging cobbled path to the tiny hamlet of Selado do Mocho and Ribeira Garça. Finally, you’ll glimpse Chã da Igreja, meet local residents, and end the walk at the village promontory before being transferred back to your accommodation.

Afterward, begin a 2.5-hour coastal hike across volcanic landscapes with sweeping ocean views, finishing in the fishing village of Cruzinha. Relax on the return drive to your lodging after a full and unforgettable day.

Difficulty

Challenging

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