Explore the vibrant islands of São Vicente and Santo Antão over eight days, experiencing colonial architecture, colorful markets, lush valleys, and dramatic volcanic landscapes. Enjoy immersive cultural activities including local cuisine and dance, while discovering the authentic charm and natural beauty of Cape Verde.
8-day Valleys & Creole Culture: 49.7 km
5 walking days: 6.7 + 10.5 + 10 + 15 + 7.5
Walking time: 21 hours
Elevation: +2,730 m / -3,640 m
Arrive at Cesária Évora Airport (VXE) on São Vicente, where you will be welcomed and transferred to Mindelo. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a visit to the city and discover its colonial architecture, colorful cobbled streets, lively vegetable and fish markets, and Laginha Beach.
On Sundays, Mindelo is generally quieter, with much of the activity concentrated around the beach.
Dinner is included.
Accommodation: Residencial Beleza, Mindelo.
Transfer to the port and take the one-hour ferry crossing to Porto Novo on Santo Antão. Continue by vehicle to Ribeira das Patas, where you will hike through semi-arid landscapes, cultivated oases, basaltic formations, and traditional farming villages. Walk down to your accommodation in Chã de Morte, where you will stay for two nights.
Walking distance: 6.7 km
Walking time: approximately 3 hours
Elevation gain: +390 m
Elevation loss: −510 m
Hike to discover the semi-arid landscapes of Ribeira das Patas, between oases of cultures, basaltic lakes and farming villages. Walking down to our accommodation in Chã de Morte, for two nights.
Accompanied by a local cook, begin your culinary adventure with a visit to Mindelo’s fish and vegetable markets. Explore the stalls, discover seasonal ingredients, and learn about the fresh produce and local specialties that form an essential part of Cape Verdean cuisine.
After the market visit, head to your host’s home or a local restaurant to take part in preparing traditional dishes. Learn about local ingredients, cooking techniques, and culinary traditions while sharing stories and insights with your host.
The experience concludes around the table, where you can enjoy the meal you have helped prepare. This welcoming and interactive activity offers a genuine taste of everyday life in Cape Verde.
Please note: The markets are closed on Sundays and public holidays. If your visit falls on one of these days, the experience may be rescheduled or canceled if no suitable alternative can be arranged.
In the afternoon, discover Cape Verde’s vibrant musical and dance traditions in the company of Ilana, a French-Cape Verdean dancer.
Through an engaging and accessible session, explore a variety of traditional and contemporary dance styles, including Batuque, Funaná, Kizomba, and Afrobeat.
Whether you are an experienced dancer or a complete beginner, this welcoming activity invites you to connect with Cape Verdean culture through rhythm, movement, and shared enjoyment.
Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.
Return to your hotel after a day filled with culinary discoveries, music, and cultural encounters.