Explore Monte Verde, beautiful beaches, fishing villages and volcanic landscapes in just 5 hours.
Discover the highlights of São Vicente on a scenic 5-hour island tour. Visit Monte Verde, the fishing village of Salamansa, Baía das Gatas, Praia Grande and the volcanic coast of Calhau. Enjoy breathtaking views, authentic local life and a beautiful drive through Madeiral Valley before returning to Mindelo.
Your adventure begins with pickup directly from your accommodation in Mindelo or at a previously agreed meeting point.
Leave the colourful streets of Cape Verde's cultural capital behind as you travel towards the mountainous interior of São Vicente.
Along the way, admire the island's dry volcanic landscapes, traditional neighbourhoods and panoramic views of Mindelo and its surroundings.
As the road climbs, the scenery gradually changes, revealing a different perspective of the island.
The first major stop is Monte Verde, the highest mountain on São Vicente, rising approximately 774 metres above sea level.
From its panoramic viewpoints, enjoy spectacular views over Mindelo Bay, the surrounding volcanic mountains and the Atlantic Ocean.
On clear days, you may even see the neighbouring islands of Santo Antão, Santa Luzia and São Nicolau in the distance.
Monte Verde is also known for its cooler climate and distinctive mountain vegetation, contrasting with the dry coastal landscapes below.
Take time to admire the scenery, capture beautiful photographs and appreciate the peaceful atmosphere of the island's highlands
Continue towards the northeastern coast to discover Salamansa, a charming fishing village known for its colourful boats, traditional houses and long sandy beach.
Fishing remains an important part of daily life here, and the village offers an authentic glimpse into the local culture and traditions of São Vicente.
Enjoy a short stop to admire the beautiful bay, watch the fishing boats and experience the relaxed atmosphere of this coastal community.
The surrounding mountains and Atlantic coastline create a picturesque setting for photographs.
The journey continues to Baía das Gatas, one of São Vicente's most famous coastal destinations.
Known for its naturally sheltered bay and calm, shallow waters, Baía das Gatas is a favourite place for local families and visitors.
The village is also internationally recognised for its annual music festival, which celebrates Cape Verdean music and culture.
Enjoy a relaxing stop by the waterfront, admire the beautiful coastal scenery and discover one of the island's most iconic seaside locations.
Next, discover Praia Grande, one of the most impressive beaches on São Vicente.
This magnificent stretch of golden sand is surrounded by rugged volcanic mountains and faces the open Atlantic Ocean.
Unlike the more sheltered bay of Baía das Gatas, Praia Grande is known for its wild, unspoiled atmosphere and powerful ocean waves.
Stop to admire the spectacular contrast between the golden dunes, dark volcanic mountains and deep blue sea.
This is an excellent location for photography and for experiencing the natural beauty of São Vicente's eastern coastline.
Continue along the coast towards Calhau, a peaceful seaside village surrounded by some of São Vicente's most fascinating volcanic landscapes.
The area is characterised by ancient volcanic cones, dark lava formations and beautiful ocean views.
From the coastline, admire the nearby uninhabited island of Santa Luzia and the small islets of Branco and Raso in the distance, when visibility allows.
Discover the quiet atmosphere of this traditional coastal village, where fishing and local life remain closely connected to the sea.
There will be time for photographs and a short stop to appreciate the dramatic volcanic scenery.
After exploring the eastern coast, begin the return journey to Mindelo through the beautiful Madeiral Valley.
This scenic route crosses the island's rural interior, passing through volcanic hills, agricultural areas and peaceful landscapes away from the busier coastal villages.
Discover another side of São Vicente, where small farming communities and traditional rural life contrast with the island's seaside destinations.
The drive offers a final opportunity to admire the natural scenery and geological character of São Vicente.
At the end of the excursion, your professional driver will take you back to your accommodation in Mindelo or to the agreed drop-off point.
Prices based on the number of participants