Exploring the rugged beauty of the Santo Antão island is a must-do for any traveler visiting Cape Verde. This day trip from São Vicente takes visitors on a captivating journey, immersing them in the island’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant local culture. With round-trip ferry transportation and a knowledgeable guide, travelers can discover the Cova de Paul volcanic crater, traverse the scenic Corda Road, and visit charming fishing villages. The day culminates in a delightful local lunch, leaving participants eager to uncover more of this captivating island’s secrets.
Good To Know
- The Santo Antão Day Trip is a 10-hour experience that includes round-trip ferry transportation and guided exploration of the island’s natural wonders.
- The tour highlights include visiting the Cova de Paul volcanic crater, exploring the Cova Natural Park, and experiencing the scenic fishing village of Ponta de Sol.
- The tour is priced at $138.92 per person and includes a local lunch, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.
- The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to the terrain, and recommended items include passport, comfortable shoes, and sun protection.
- The tour begins with pickup from accommodations in São Vicente and includes a hassle-free, 1-hour ferry ride to Santo Antão.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Santo Antão Day Trip offers a comprehensive tour from São Vicente, priced at $138.92 per person.
The 10-hour experience includes round-trip ferry transportation, a guided exploration of the island’s highlights, and a local lunch.
Travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, as well as the convenience of reserving their spot without upfront payment.
This day trip provides an opportunity to discover Cape Verde’s largest volcanic crater, traverse the picturesque Corda Road, and take in the charming fishing village of Ponta de Sol and the scenic town of Ribeira Grande.
Itinerary and Highlights
The day trip begins with a pickup from accommodations in São Vicente, followed by a 1-hour ferry ride to the island of Santo Antão.
The highlights of the itinerary include:
- Visiting Cova de Paúl, Cape Verde’s largest volcanic crater.
- Exploring Cova Natural Park and traversing the spectacular landscapes via Corda Road.
- Stopping for photos at the Delgadinho mountain viewpoint.
- Exploring the fishing village of Ponta de Sol and enjoying a scenic drive to Ribeira Grande, followed by lunch in the verdant Vale de Paúl.
The tour concludes with a return transfer to Porto Novo and the ferry back to São Vicente.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour includes pickup and drop-off at accommodations in Mindelo, all port transfers, transportation, round-trip ferry tickets, a local tour guide, and lunch.
Participants will experience a scenic drive to the various highlights, including Cova de Paulo, Corda Road, and the fishing village of Ponta de Sol.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.
Travelers should bring their passport, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and a face mask or protective covering.
It’s important to check the voucher for accurate hotel/port pick-up information.
Important Information
Travelers should bring their passport, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and a face mask or protective covering for the Santo Antão Day Trip.
Plus, it’s important to:
- Check the voucher for accurate hotel/port pick-up information to ensure a smooth start to the day.
- Wear comfortable clothing that’s suitable for the activities and weather conditions.
- Be prepared for a full day of sightseeing and exploration, with the tour lasting approximately 10 hours.
- Understand that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the nature of the terrain.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Customers have shared a range of experiences with the Santo Antão Day Trip, with an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 51 reviews.
The transportation received a solid 4.6 rating, while value for money was a bit lower at 4.2.
Travelers praised the knowledgeable guides, but some had complaints about the organization and fixed lunch menu.
Feedback on departure timing and guide responsiveness was mixed.
Pickup and Ferry Ride
Your Santo Antão day trip begins with a pickup from your accommodation in São Vicente.
You’ll then embark on a 1-hour ferry ride to Santo Antão. The journey includes:
- Convenient pickup from your hotel or rental property in Mindelo.
- A smooth ferry crossing to Santo Antão, allowing you to soak in the views of the surrounding islands.
- Transportation throughout the day, ensuring a hassle-free experience as you explore the island.
- A round-trip ferry ticket, making the return journey to São Vicente just as seamless.
This efficient start sets the stage for a memorable day filled with natural wonders on the island of Santo Antão.
Volcanic Crater and National Park
Upon arriving on Santo Antão, the group heads to Cova de Paul, Cape Verde’s largest volcanic crater.
Descending into the crater, visitors are awed by the dramatic, rugged landscape.
Next, the tour explores Cova Natural Park, where the renowned Corda Road winds through breathtaking scenery.
Stopping at the Delgadinho mountain viewpoint offers panoramic vistas over the island’s lush, verdant terrain.
This section of the tour showcases Santo Antão’s diverse natural wonders, from the towering volcanic crater to the verdant parklands and dramatic mountain overlooks.
Fishing Village and Scenic Drive
After exploring the dramatic volcanic landscapes, the tour continues to Ponta de Sol, a quaint fishing village along the coast.
The group will wander through the picturesque streets, taking in the local fishing culture and architecture.
From there, the scenic drive to Ribeira Grande offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and lush valleys.
The tour includes:
- Visit to the charming fishing village of Ponta de Sol
- Scenic drive along the coastline to the town of Ribeira Grande
- Opportunity to observe the daily life and traditions of the local fishermen
- Chance to capture stunning photographs of the breathtaking landscapes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?
According to the tour details, the itinerary is fixed and can’t be customized. However, you can request any special needs or preferences when booking, and the tour operator will do their best to accommodate them within the existing schedule.
What Is the Group Size for This Tour?
The tour group size is not explicitly stated, but the tour is described as a day trip rather than a private tour. Typically, these types of group tours accommodate between 8-20 participants to provide a personalized experience.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?
There are no age restrictions for this tour. The tour is suitable for participants of all ages, though it may not be suitable for wheelchair users. Guests should bring comfortable shoes and be prepared for a full day of sightseeing.
Is This Tour Wheelchair/Disability Accessible?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users. It involves navigating uneven terrain and visiting areas that may be inaccessible for those with mobility challenges. Participants must be able to get in and out of vehicles independently.
Can I Request a Vegetarian or Special Dietary Meal?
While the tour doesn’t have specific vegetarian options, they may be able to accommodate special dietary needs with advance notice. Travelers should contact the tour provider to discuss any dietary requirements before booking.
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The Sum Up
This captivating Santo Antão day trip from São Vicente offers an immersive experience showcasing Cape Verde’s stunning natural landscapes. From the breathtaking Cova de Paul volcanic crater to the picturesque villages and scenic coastal roads, travelers will be treated to an enriching adventure filled with natural beauty and local culture. With round-trip ferry transportation and a knowledgeable local guide, this tour is the perfect way to explore the island’s captivating wonders.