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Cape Verde's Northern Islands - With Private Guide

0044 1606 720199

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  • Holiday code
    W07CV
  • Holiday type
    Private guided walk
  • Duration
    7 nights
  • Accommodation
    hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • From $2999per person, tour only
  • NEW FOR 2024  
  • Departures
    Thursdays only from 5 Oct '23 to 13 Jun '24
  • What your holiday price includes
  • 7 nights hotel-to-hotel accommodation in a mix of hotels
  • All breakfasts, six lunches & five dinners
  • Management by your local Headwater-appointed agent
  • Your own private English speaking guide
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Return ferries between Sao Vicente & Santo Antao
  • Car transfers as per itinerary
  • Reduction in price per person for 3 or more travellers
  • Optional Upgrades
  • Extra nights (prices on request)
  • Suitable for
  • Couples
  • Excellent choice for
  • Flora & fauna, bird spotting opportunities, island exploring

Cape Verde:

Cape Verde's Northern Islands - With Private Guide

  • Explore Cape Verde's iconic northern islands on foot
  • Spend time with local families enjoying homegrown produce
  • Pass by peaceful green valleys, volcanic peaks, and serene coastal hamlets
  • Your own private English speaking guide and driver throughout the trip - benefit from insider knowledge and a personalised experience

Relish the beauty of Cape Verde's northern islands; our eight-day walking tour combines history and culture with a spectacular and untouched landscape - perfect for hiking enthusiasts. You'll spend time with local families, sampling their fresh homegrown produce, all the while appreciating the unmatched beauty of these stunning islands. You'll also have the support of an English-speaking guide and driver throughout, private to your party.

We've chosen the most unique yet impressive island locations on Sao Vicente and Santo Antao, where you'll have the chance to explore the Janela and Penede valleys, hike through beautiful mountain villages, and gaze at vibrant-coloured fishing boats. You'll observe the splendour of the Ribeira Grande and Garca valleys, walking along an impressive paved path with spectacular ocean views. As you continue on this path, you'll encounter the peaceful green valley of Corvo, a serene and idyllic spot to enjoy lunch. This path will also take you through the hilltop village of Fontainhas, a green mountainous location famous for its colourful houses and spectacular sea views.

If you are more enthused by volcanic landscapes, prepare to be entralled by the Ribeira da Torre area located on the island of Santo Antao. Here, in the middle of the island, you'll encounter a large volcanic peak, adorned with cane fields and cultivated terraces. As you proceed on your coastal walk, you'll confront a volcanic peak almost 2,000 metres high, plunging directly into the ocean.

Whilst on the island of Santo Antao, you'll also have the opportunity to explore Monte Trigo, a small fishing village with around 6,000 habitants that is only accessible on foot or by boat. A cabotage trip with local fishermen from Monte Trigo back to Tarrafal will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience to end your Cape Verdean adventure!



We're here to help

If you have any questions about this holiday call our sales team on 0044 1606 720199, use our live webchat or email sales@headwater.com

Typical holiday itinerary



We're here to help

If you've any questions about this holiday call our sales team on 0044 1606 720199 , or email sales@headwater.com

Day 1: Arrive on Sao Vicente

You'll be met at Sao Vicente airport and transferred to your first accommodation in Mindelo (approx. 15mins); here you'll receive your briefing from your private guide.

Spend your evening exploring the colourful cobbled streets and colonial architecture of this charming fishing village before watching a beautiful sunset over the beach.
Overnight Terra Lodge, Mindelo.

Day 2: Travel to Santo Antao & onto Ribeira de Janela (7km)

Travel by boat from Mindelo (Sao Vicente) to Porto Novo on Santo Antao Island (1hr - included) and transfer to the start of your walk (30mins) at Ribeira de Janela. Your guide will lead you from the seafront, climbing across the Penede valley and crossing over a high balcony to join the Janela.

Here you begin your descent, passing coffee farms and mountain villages, but never losing sight of the blue ocean below bobbing with colourful fishing boats. In the afternoon, you will be transferred from the end of your walk to Vila das Pombas where you'll spend the next two nights.
Overnight Hotel Paul Mar, Vila das Pombas (breakfast, lunch & dinner included).

Day 3: Paul, Cabo de Ribeira & Figueriral (8.5km)

A short transfer will bring you to the lush valley of Paul. Follow the small paths from hamlet to hamlet, passing through cultivated terraces in the area of Cabo de Ribeira. Here, the locals harvest coffee, oranges, guavas, and vegetables, depending on the season; this is also where the delicious rum is distilled!

Enjoy a special lunch in the small valley of Figuerial where you'll be welcomed by a local family to sample their homegrown produce. After lunch, your walk returns you to the spectacular coastline of the Atlantic Ocean.
Overnight Hotel Paul Mar, Vila das Pombas (breakfast, lunch & dinner included).

Day 4: Ribeira Grande, Corvo & Fontainhas (13.5km)

A morning transfer takes you through the mountainous valleys of Ribeira Grande and Garca to the coastal village of Cruzinha. Here your walk begins along an impressive path overlooking the shimmering ocean. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the peaceful green valley of Corvo before continuing to Fontainhas, a hilltop village famous for its colourful houses. Your day ends in Ponta do Sol, the northernmost city on the island of Santo Antao.
Overnight Tiduca Hotel, Ponta do Sol (breakfast, lunch & dinner included).

Day 5: Ribeira da Torre & Tarrafal (5km)

Your day begins with a short transfer to Ribeira da Torre, one of the greenest and most spectacular areas of the island, home to an imposing volcanic peak. Take some time to discover this incredible landscape before beginning your walk. Lunch is hosted by a local family before continuing your walk through cane fields, following irrigation canals towards the bottom of the valley. You will be transferred to Tarrafal on the western shore of Santo Antao, where you'll discover the summit of the North Plateau before descending to the coast and onto your seaside accommodation.
Overnight Kasa Baobab, Tarrafal (breakfast, lunch & dinner included).

Day 6: Monte Trigo (10km)

Today you'll walk along the coast in the shadow of the islands summit, a volcano almost 2,000m high that plunges into the ocean, before arriving in Monte Trigo, the westernmost settlement of Santo Antao. This small fishing village is completely isolated from the world, only accessible on foot or by boat. Its sweeping black sand beach and spectacular views over the Cape Verde Islands are well worth the effort of reaching this hidden gem. Return to Tarrafal by cabotage with the fishermen (40mins) - a unique experience in itself!
Overnight Kasa Baobab, Tarrafal (breakfast, lunch & dinner included).

Day 7: Tarrafal Valley (2km)

Enjoy a short morning walk through the fields of Tarrafal Valley, marvelling at the local farmers as they compete in ingenuity to build their terraces and irrigation channels. In the afternoon, you'll be transferred back to Porto Novo for your return boat to Mindelo (1hr - included) where you'll spend your final night on Sao Vicente - hopefully with fond memories of the unforgettable Cape Verdean islands!
Overnight Terra Lodge, Mindelo (breakfast & lunch included).

Day 8: Depart Mindelo

You'll be collected from your accommodation and transferred to Sao Vicente airport (approx.15mins) for your flight home.

Where you stay

During your holiday you stay at the following hotels. If you'd like to extend your time at any of these or, if you'd like to enhance your stay with an upgraded room, just let us know at the time of booking.

To find out more call our sales team on 0044 1606 720199, use our live webchat or email sales@headwater.com


Find out more on the hotel website.
Read customer reviews on Tripadvisor.

Terra Lodge, Mindelo

Swimming Pool Icon NEARBY:

With breath-taking views of the bay of Mindelo and surrounding colourful houses, Terra Lodge has just 12 rooms. Combining contemporary comfort with the charm of historical heritage, guests can enjoy the peaceful gardens and swimming pool whilst watching the fantastic sunsets. There is also a bar located on the panoramic terrace serving cocktails, juices, and snacks. Breakfast is made from local products such as homemade pastries, cold cuts and jams from Santo Antao, and Fogo coffee roasted and ground on site.


Extra nights: Please contact us for details.


Find out more on the hotel website.
Read customer reviews on Tripadvisor.

Hotel Paul Mar, Vila das Pombas

Set on the island of Santo Antao, Hotel Paul Mar provides a simple yet good quality offering. With views over the sea and towards Paul Valley, guests can enjoy the terrace, bar, shared lounge, and on-site shops.


Find out more on the hotel website.
Read customer reviews on Tripadvisor.

Tiduca Hotel, Ponta do Sol

Hair dryer icon NEARBY:

Perched on Ponta do Sol's harbourfront, Tiduca Hotel has spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. All rooms have either a sea view or mountain view, many with a balcony or terrace. The restaurant serves a la carte or buffet style Cape Verde cuisine. Enjoy a drink on the roof terrace watching the waves roll in.


Find out more on the hotel website.
Read customer reviews on Tripadvisor.

Casa Baobab, Tarrafal

NEARBY:

Offering a choice of studios and rooms, Casa Baobab is situated in a quiet, peaceful area of Tarrafal Monte Trigo. Guests can enjoy the large terrace overlooking the sea, garden bar, and a continental breakfast.

Travel

Call now to speak to our specialist team at 0044 1606 720199 or email us at sales@headwater.com for enquiries or to book your trip.

Reviews

Here at Headwater we thrive on feedback from our customers. It's the only way we can continue to develop, and where necessary improve, our services and ensure our holidays continue to be the best they can be. However, as this is a relatively new holiday, we don't yet have any customer reviews available.

Dates and prices

You can be confident that our pricing includes all the standard requirements of your holiday and many additional extras. Always ensure that you are comparing like for like when booking your holiday.

This 7 night private guided walk holiday includes:

Hotel-to-hotel accommodation in a mix of hotels

All breakfasts, six lunches & five dinners

Management by your local Headwater-appointed agent

Your own private English speaking guide

Luggage transfers between hotels

Return ferries between Sao Vicente & Santo Antao

Car transfers as per itinerary

Reduction in price per person for 3 or more travellers


How to book:

To book this holidays speak to our sales team on 0044 1606 720199 or click on the appropriate 'book now' or 'check availability' button below.

To book this holiday call our sales team on 0044 1606 720199 or click on the appropriate 'Book now' or 'check availability' button below.

  • Oct 2023
  • Nov 2023
  • Dec 2023
  • Jan 2024
  • Feb 2024
  • Mar 2024
  • Apr 2024
  • May 2024
  • Jun 2024
DepartingTour only Prices   Single supplement
5th Oct 2023 US$2999 US$241 Tour only: US$2999
Single supp: US$241
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12th Oct 2023 US$2999 US$241 Tour only: US$2999
Single supp: US$241
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19th Oct 2023 US$2999 US$241 Tour only: US$2999
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26th Oct 2023 US$2999 US$241 Tour only: US$2999
Single supp: US$241
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DepartingTour only Prices   Single supplement
2nd Nov 2023 US$2999 US$241 Tour only: US$2999
Single supp: US$241
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9th Nov 2023 US$2999 US$241 Tour only: US$2999
Single supp: US$241
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16th Nov 2023 US$2999 US$241 Tour only: US$2999
Single supp: US$241
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23rd Nov 2023 US$2999 US$241 Tour only: US$2999
Single supp: US$241
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30th Nov 2023 US$2999 US$241 Tour only: US$2999
Single supp: US$241
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DepartingTour only Prices   Single supplement
7th Dec 2023 US$2999 US$241 Tour only: US$2999
Single supp: US$241
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14th Dec 2023 US$2999 US$241 Tour only: US$2999
Single supp: US$241
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21st Dec 2023 US$2999 US$241 Tour only: US$2999
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28th Dec 2023 US$2999 US$241 Tour only: US$2999
Single supp: US$241
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DepartingTour only Prices   Single supplement
4th Jan 2024 US$3249 US$241 Tour only: US$3249
Single supp: US$241
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11th Jan 2024 US$3249 US$241 Tour only: US$3249
Single supp: US$241
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18th Jan 2024 US$3249 US$241 Tour only: US$3249
Single supp: US$241
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25th Jan 2024 US$3249 US$241 Tour only: US$3249
Single supp: US$241
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DepartingTour only Prices   Single supplement
1st Feb 2024 US$3249 US$241 Tour only: US$3249
Single supp: US$241
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8th Feb 2024 US$3249 US$241 Tour only: US$3249
Single supp: US$241
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15th Feb 2024 US$3249 US$241 Tour only: US$3249
Single supp: US$241
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22nd Feb 2024 US$3249 US$241 Tour only: US$3249
Single supp: US$241
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29th Feb 2024 US$3249 US$241 Tour only: US$3249
Single supp: US$241
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DepartingTour only Prices   Single supplement
7th Mar 2024 US$3249 US$241 Tour only: US$3249
Single supp: US$241
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14th Mar 2024 US$3249 US$241 Tour only: US$3249
Single supp: US$241
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21st Mar 2024 US$3249 US$241 Tour only: US$3249
Single supp: US$241
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28th Mar 2024 US$3249 US$241 Tour only: US$3249
Single supp: US$241
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DepartingTour only Prices   Single supplement
4th Apr 2024 US$3249 US$241 Tour only: US$3249
Single supp: US$241
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11th Apr 2024 US$3249 US$241 Tour only: US$3249
Single supp: US$241
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18th Apr 2024 US$3249 US$241 Tour only: US$3249
Single supp: US$241
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25th Apr 2024 US$3249 US$241 Tour only: US$3249
Single supp: US$241
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DepartingTour only Prices   Single supplement
2nd May 2024 US$3249 US$241 Tour only: US$3249
Single supp: US$241
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9th May 2024 US$3249 US$241 Tour only: US$3249
Single supp: US$241
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16th May 2024 US$3249 US$241 Tour only: US$3249
Single supp: US$241
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23rd May 2024 US$3249 US$241 Tour only: US$3249
Single supp: US$241
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30th May 2024 US$3249 US$241 Tour only: US$3249
Single supp: US$241
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DepartingTour only Prices   Single supplement
6th Jun 2024 US$3249 US$241 Tour only: US$3249
Single supp: US$241
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13th Jun 2024 US$3249 US$241 Tour only: US$3249
Single supp: US$241
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The prices quoted for each individual departure supercede those published in our current brochures. Air prices are subject to change and we advise early booking to obtain the best prices. Please see our Planning your holiday and What's included in the price? pages for additional information.

Holiday details

Solo travellers
Please call for details and prices

Children
Please contact us for child prices.

Holiday type
Managed locally by Headwater appointed agent.

Departures
Thursdays only from 5th Oct 2023 to 13th Jun 2024, for 7 nights. All dates are subject to availability, please contact us to check.

Meals
All breakfasts, six lunches & five dinners

Tailor-made travel

This holiday does not include any flights or rail.

How to book

To book this holidays speak to our sales team on 0044 1606 720199 or click on the appropriate 'book now' button above.

If you need further information before you book simply complete our Holiday Enquiry Form and a member of our sales team will get back to you.

To book this holiday call our sales team on 0044 1606 720199 or click on the appropriate 'Book now' or 'Check availability' button below.