Far Off the Map | Journey Across Cape Verde Archipelago

Cape Verde, 500 km west of Senegal, lies the archipelago of vertigo-inducing mountains, crystal blue and white sandy beaches with seaside villages. From craggy peaks to green valleys of flowers and sugar cane, throbbing nightlife of Creole West Africa beats from alleys all the way up the towering peaks down to the sparkling bays.

Uninhabited until the 1500’s when Portuguese explorers first discovered the island and used it’s strategic location for cross-Atlantic trade, the population has rarely exceeded 500,000 people and the majority creole ancestry is of European and West African descent. The geologic origins of the island chain are from a volcanic hot spot deep in the Atlantic, creating steep craggy mountains and dramatic landscapes.

Highlight is surely the dizzying vertical island of Santo Antão, ruptured with canyons, gorges and valleys. The second largest island in the chain, its lush green landscapes hidden until you find yourself surrounded by sugar cane plantations, deep ravines of tropical flora and fauna in steamy valleys.

Lets go!

Day 0 // Connecting flight from Casablanca
Meeting at Casablanca airport for connecting flight to Praia 22:30-00:15.

Day 1 // Santiago - Cidade Velha & Praia City
Arrival to Praia 00:15.
Immigration clearance, overnight. After breakfast transfer to Cidade Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the first European colonial outpost in the tropics. Walk through the historic Rua Banana, visit the Royal Fortress of São Filipe, and learn about the town’s pivotal role in the transatlantic slave trade. Famous visitors include Vasco da Gama, Columbus and Magellan, as well as numerous pirates who continually plundered the place. We will enjoy a walk around the small town, visit the museum at the fort and take a seafood lunch in a small bar on the beach. Dinner at a restaurant at Prainha Beach in the evening. Possibility for a night walk to the Farol de Maria Lia lighthouse.

DAY 2 // Sao Vicente - Mindelo
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for a flight to São Vicente Island. Upon arrival, we’ll head directly to Mindelo, the island’s cultural heart.
Check in the hotel in the charming colonial-style city, then set out to explore its colorful streets, bustling markets, art galleries, and music bars. Walk along the waterfront, visit the replica of Lisbon’s Belém Tower, and relax on Laginha Beach. Enjoy the rhythms of Cape Verdean music and savor delicious local dishes in the evening.

DAY 3 // Santo Antão - Porto Novo to Paul
Today begins with a scenic ferry ride to the lush and mountainous island of Santo Antão. After arriving in Porto Novo, we will drive along the dramatic Corda Road, one of the most beautiful roads in the country, offering panoramic views of deep valleys and towering peaks.
We’ll make several photo stops, including a visit to the breathtaking Cova Crater, a dormant volcano now filled with farmland. The journey continues to the verdant Paul Valley, considered the greenest and most fertile valley in Cabo Verde. Settle into our hotel and enjoy the peaceful rural ambiance.

DAY 4 // Santo Antão - Paul Valley
Wake up to the fresh mountain air and set out for a hike in the Paul Valley, a paradise for nature lovers. As we walk along cobbled paths and terraced fields, pass through traditional villages where locals still live in harmony with nature.
We will get introduce to the flora and fauna of the region, and we'll see how locals cultivate sugarcane, coffee, and tropical fruits. Enjoy spectacular views of towering peaks, waterfalls, and lush greenery. We’ll also have the chance to visit a local distillery and taste the famous grogue, a traditional sugarcane liquor.

DAY 5 // Santo Antão - São Vicente - Santiago
After breakfast, say goodbye to Santo Antão and transfer back to Porto Novo for the ferry ride to São Vicente. Upon arrival in Mindelo, enjoy some final free time for shopping or relaxing before heading to the airport for your flight back to Santiago Island. Take in the last aerial views of the islands as you transition from the mountainous beauty of Santo Antão back to the vibrant rhythm of Santiago.

DAY 6 // Departure
Airport transfer for return flight to Casablanca. See you soon - Até breve!

Level of Difficulty:
Easy available for beginners.

Activities:
Trekking, sightseeing, swimming.

Room & Meals:
Hotels double sharing, restaurant meals excluded.

Cost: 1900 EUR excl. flights, until AUG 09.

Specifically excluded: visa, meals.

Trip starts / ends on Royal Maroc schedule:
Arrival CMN-RAI AUG 16 22:30-00:15 (+1)
Departure RAI-CMN AUG 22 01:15-06:50

Recommended Flights:
3,556 AED (Emirates) + 2,550 AED (Royal Air Maroc)

Visa:
Most nationalities receive visa on arrival and many visa-free.
Morocco: UAE residents get visa on arrival.

See yah at Cabo x

Trekkup Crew
Whatsapp 050 4848238 / [Find all trekkups at linktr.ee/trekkup](https://linktr.ee/trekkup)