The Pauúl Hike, the Green Garden, promises a captivating 5-hour adventure through Cape Verde’s stunning landscapes. Trekking 5 km, hikers will enjoy the island’s natural beauty – from valleys and hills to cascading waterfalls. Along the way, they’ll savor traditional brandy and punch tastings, culminating in a hearty Cape Verdean lunch at a local distillery. With knowledgeable guides and a maximum of 10 participants, this hike offers an intimate exploration of the island’s culture and scenery. But what lies beyond the scenic trails and local flavors? Let’s find out.
Good To Know
- The Paúl Hike offers a 5-hour adventure through captivating island landscapes in Cape Verde, including traditional architecture and scenic valleys, mountains, and waterfalls.
- The hike covers 5 km with 350 m elevation gain and 600 m descent, showcasing the natural beauty of the island’s diverse landscapes.
- Participants can enjoy a tasting of various brandies and punches from the Paúl Valley, as well as a traditional Cape Verde lunch and rum tasting at a distillery.
- The tour is limited to 10 participants and is available in Portuguese, English, and French, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Previous customer reviews highlight the tour’s breathtaking scenery and knowledgeable guide, although one reviewer expressed concerns about the steep price.
Tour Overview
Embarking on the Paul Hike, the Green Garden tour, visitors can expect a 5-hour adventure through the captivating landscapes of the island.
Priced from $110.03 per person, the tour is limited to 10 participants, catering to Portuguese, English, and French speakers.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and guests can reserve their spot now and pay later.
The experience highlights include discovering traditional architecture, tasting local brandies and punches, and admiring the beautiful valleys, mountains, and waterfalls.
The 5 km hike features 350 m of elevation gain and 600 m of descent, traversing scenic trails sought after by travelers.
A traditional Cape Verde lunch and rum tasting at a distillery are also included.
Experience Highlights
Visitors on the Paul Hike, the Green Garden tour, can look forward to a captivating exploration of the island’s first houses made of straw and basalt.
The tour also offers a chance to taste various brandies and punches from Paul Valley.
Hikers will admire the beautiful landscapes, mountains, and lush valleys as they trek through:
- Valleys
- Hills
- Fields of crops
- Waterfalls
- Scenic trails sought after by travelers
The experience culminates with a traditional Cape Verde lunch and rum tasting at a distillery, providing an authentic culture.
Itinerary Details
The tour includes pickup from the hotel and transportation to the starting point. The hike covers a distance of 5 km with an elevation gain of 350 m and a descent of 600 m. The scenic trails are sought after by travelers, offering a glimpse into the island’s natural beauty.
| Distance | Elevation Gain | Elevation Descent |
|---|---|---|
| 5 km | 350 m | 600 m |
A traditional Cape Verde lunch and rum tasting at a local distillery are included, providing an authentic culinary experience. Participants are advised to bring proper trekking gear and hiking shoes to ensure a comfortable and safe journey through the lush valleys and fields of crops.
What to Bring
Proper trekking gear and hiking shoes are essential for the Paul Hike. Participants should bring:
- Comfortable, well-broken-in hiking boots or shoes with good traction
- Lightweight, breathable layers like moisture-wicking shirts and quick-dry pants
- Sun protection, including a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Water bottle and snacks to keep hydrated and energized during the hike
- Optional items like hiking poles, insect repellent, and a small backpack
These items will ensure participants are prepared for the varied terrain and weather conditions encountered during the 5-hour hike through the lush valleys and hills of Paul Valley.
Customer Reviews
A total of 2 reviews have been left for the Paul Hike, resulting in an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. Positive feedback highlights the stunning scenery and the guide’s entertaining personality. However, one reviewer felt the price of 150 euros was too expensive. The table below provides a breakdown of the reviews:
| Reviewer | Rating | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Reviewer 1 | 5/5 | Breathtaking landscapes and a knowledgeable, funny guide |
| Reviewer 2 | 4/5 | Price was a bit steep, but the hike was enjoyable |
Scenic Trails
Scenic trails sought after by travelers wind through the valleys, hills, and lush fields of crops on the Paul Hike.
The hike offers a diverse range of landscapes, including:
- Undulating hills dotted with colorful wildflowers
- Serene streams and cascading waterfalls
- Groves of fruit trees and terraced vineyards
- Rugged mountain peaks rising in the distance
- Verdant meadows perfect for taking in the stunning views
These picturesque trails provide a captivating journey through the breathtaking natural beauty of Paul Valley, immersing hikers in the rich cultural heritage and vibrant landscapes of Cape Verde.
Traditional Lunch
After trekking through the scenic trails and admiring the breathtaking landscapes, hikers on the Paul Hike are treated to a traditional Cape Verde lunch.
This hearty meal includes local dishes like catchupa, a stew made with corn, beans, and various meats. Participants also get to sample different brandies and punches from the Paul Valley region.
The lunch is served at a distillery, allowing hikers to learn about the traditional production methods and enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the island.
This immersive experience complements the stunning natural beauty explored earlier in the hike.
Brandy and Punch Tasting
The brandy and punch tasting is a highlight for many participants on the Paul Hike. Hikers can expect to sample a variety of locally-produced brandies and punches from the Paul Valley region.
These distinctive drinks offer a taste of Cape Verdean tradition:
- Rich, smooth brandies distilled from local grape varieties
- Sweet, fruity punches infused with tropical fruits and spices
- Robust, earthy liqueurs crafted from aromatic herbs and roots
- Crisp, refreshing cocktails blending brandy, juices, and mixers
- Authentic, time-honored recipes passed down through generations
This tasting allows hikers to explore the vibrant culture and flavors of Cape Verde, complementing the scenic beauty of the Paul Hike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Hike?
Yes, you can bring your own snacks and food on the hike. The tour overview doesn’t indicate any restrictions on bringing your own provisions. Just be sure to pack them in a lightweight, easy-to-carry manner.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement to Participate?
The tour does not seem to have a specified minimum age requirement. However, it’s recommended that participants be in good physical condition to handle the 5-hour hike with 350m elevation gain. Families with children should check with the tour operator for suitability.
Are There Any Special Dietary Accommodations Available?
The tour offers traditional Cape Verdean lunch, but doesn’t explicitly mention special dietary accommodations. Travelers with dietary restrictions should contact the tour operator in advance to inquire about availability of vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options.
Can I Opt-Out of the Brandy and Punch Tasting?
Yes, participants can opt-out of the brandy and punch tasting. The tour offers a traditional Cape Verde lunch, which is included for all guests regardless of their decision to participate in the tasting.
What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule?
According to the tour overview, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This allows flexibility to reschedule if needed without incurring any penalties.
The Sum Up
The Paúl Hike, the Green Garden, offers an unforgettable 5-hour adventure through Cape Verde’s stunning landscapes. Participants embark on a scenic 5 km trek, savoring traditional brandy and punch tastings, and enjoying a hearty Cape Verde lunch at a distillery. With knowledgeable guides and a small group, it’s an intimate exploration of the island’s culture and scenery.