Beach: Guided Nature Hike to Cidade Velha

Discover the captivating natural wonder of Santiago Island on a guided hike to Cidade Velha. This breathtaking adventure promises to immerse you in the island’s diverse landscapes, from traversing 4 km of varied terrain to encountering the iconic 400-year-old Baobab tree. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to observe the rich flora and fauna, including Cape Verde’s symbolic bird, while learning about the local culture and the production of grogue. With flexible tour options and convenient pickup, this experience offers an unforgettable journey through Cape Verde’s stunning scenery. What secrets await as you explore the untamed beauty of Cidade Velha?

This experience made our list of the 5 Best Guided Tours In Praia.

Key Points

• This guided nature hike takes visitors through the scenic landscapes of Santiago Island, including valleys, hills, and cliffs.
• The highlight of the hike is the 400-year-old iconic Baobab tree, a cultural symbol of Cape Verde.
• Participants have the opportunity to spot Cape Verde’s symbolic bird and learn about grogue production during the hike.
• The tour is led by knowledgeable local guides and offers options for private or small group tours.
• The hike covers a distance of 4 km with a 200-meter descent, and the tour lasts for 4 hours.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

This guided nature hike to Cidade Velha provides an immersive 4-hour excursion through the scenic landscapes of Santiago Island.

With a moderate difficulty level, the hike covers a distance of 4 km, involving a 200-meter descent. Priced from $49.41 per person, the activity offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Highlights include encountering Cape Verde’s symbolic bird, exploring a 400-year-old Baobab tree, and learning about the production of grogue, the national drink.

The tour is led by experienced guides who can provide insights in multiple languages, and offers both private and small group options with hotel or harbor pickup included.

Experience Highlights

The guided nature hike showcases Santiago Island’s scenic landscapes, from the iconic 400-year-old Baobab tree to the diverse flora including banana, sugar cane, mango, coconut, and papaya trees.

Along the way, hikers have the chance to encounter Cape Verde’s symbolic bird.

The excursion also provides insights into local life and the production of grogue, the national drink.

With a live tour guide available in multiple languages, the hike offers a personalized and flexible experience that can be tailored to private or small group preferences.

The positive customer reviews highlight the guides’ expertise and friendliness, making this nature walk a highly recommended activity.

Guided Support and Flexibility

Live tour guides are available in English, French, German, Portuguese, Spanish, and Italian, allowing visitors to choose their preferred language and receive personalized attention during the nature hike. For added flexibility, both private and small group options are available to accommodate different travel preferences. Pickup from the hotel or harbor is included, ensuring a seamless start to the excursion. Visitors can also take advantage of the reserve now & pay later option, providing convenience and peace of mind.

Guided Support and Flexibility
Live Tour Guides	Private & Small Group Options	Pickup Included
6 Languages Available	Customizable Experience	Hotel or Harbor
Personalized Attention	Reserve Now, Pay Later	Seamless Start

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Visitors have overwhelmingly praised the guided nature hike to Cidade Velha, awarding it an impressive 5/5 overall rating based on 6 reviews.

Travelers highlight the expertise and friendliness of the tour guides, who lead the excursion in multiple languages including English, French, German, Portuguese, Spanish, and Italian.

Reviewers recommend the scenic landscapes, iconic Baobab tree, diverse flora, and opportunities to encounter Cape Verde’s symbolic bird and learn about local life and the national drink, grogue.

The flexible options, including private or small group tours and hotel/harbor pickup, also receive positive mentions from satisfied customers.

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Booking Information

Travelers can check availability for starting times and contact the tour provider if their hotel isn’t listed among the pickup options.

To reserve the guided nature hike, customers select the desired date and the number of participants. The "reserve now & pay later" option allows travelers to secure their spot without immediate payment.

Small group and private tour options are also available. With pickup from the hotel or harbor included, the guided experience ensures a hassle-free adventure exploring the scenic landscapes and cultural highlights of Cidade Velha on Santiago Island.

Scenic Landscapes of Santiago

The guided nature hike takes visitors on a captivating journey through the scenic landscapes of Santiago Island.

Trekkers will be awestruck by the island’s diverse terrain, from verdant valleys to rolling hills and rugged cliffs. Along the way, they’ll encounter the iconic 400-year-old Baobab tree, a symbol of Cape Verde’s rich heritage.

The hike also offers glimpses of the island’s vibrant flora, including banana, sugar cane, mango, coconut, and papaya trees. As they explore, hikers may even spot the island’s symbolic bird, adding to the enchanting experience.

With knowledgeable local guides leading the way, visitors can enjoy the natural beauty and cultural essence of this stunning Cape Verdean destination.

Iconic 400-Year-Old Baobab

Why is the ancient 400-year-old Baobab tree such an iconic symbol of Cape Verde?

This massive, bottle-shaped tree is one of the oldest and most impressive on the islands. Its thick, twisted trunk and wide, spreading canopy make it a striking presence in the landscape.

Baobabs are revered in Cape Verdean culture, and this particular tree has stood witness to centuries of history.

Hikers on the Cidade Velha trail will have the chance to marvel at its immense size and gnarled appearance, which epitomize the resilience and timelessness of Cape Verde’s natural heritage.

This ancient giant is a must-see highlight of the guided nature hike.

Diverse Flora and Fauna

Along the Cidade Velha hiking trail, visitors will encounter a diverse array of tropical flora, including banana, sugar cane, mango, coconut, and papaya trees.

The hike also offers opportunities to spot Cape Verde’s symbolic bird, as well as observe the local production of grogue, the national drink.

Some highlights include:

1. Observing the iconic 400-year-old Baobab tree, a unique and ancient species native to the region.
2. Learning about the diverse uses of the various fruit and cash crops found along the trail.
3. Experiencing the vibrant local culture and gaining insights into the daily life of Cidade Velha’s residents.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Bring for the Hike?

It’s recommended to bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection like a hat and sunscreen, and enough water and snacks for the 4-hour duration. Bringing a camera is also advised to capture the scenic landscapes along the way.

Is the Trail Well-Marked and Easy to Follow?

The trail is well-marked and easy to follow. Guided support is provided, so hikers don’t have to worry about navigating the route on their own. The guides ensure participants stay on the designated path throughout the scenic nature hike.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Along the Trail?

There are no restroom facilities specifically mentioned along the trail. However, the tour is guided, so the guide can likely point out suitable locations if needed during the 4-hour hike.

Is This Hike Suitable for Children?

The hike is suitable for children, though the moderate difficulty level may make it challenging for younger kids. The guided nature walk is flexible, and the tour provider can accommodate families with appropriate pacing and breaks.

Can I Purchase Snacks or Drinks During the Hike?

You can purchase snacks and drinks during the hike. The tour includes stops where you’ll have the opportunity to buy local refreshments and try the national drink, grogue.

The Sum Up

This guided nature hike to Cidade Velha on Santiago Island offers an immersive journey through Cape Verde’s breathtaking landscapes. Traverse diverse terrain, marvel at the iconic 400-year-old Baobab tree, and encounter the island’s rich flora and fauna, including its symbolic bird. With flexible tour options and knowledgeable guides, this adventure promises an unforgettable experience showcasing the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this stunning destination.

You can check if your dates are available here: