Exploring the stunning island of Santo Antão by car offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy its breathtaking natural beauty. This full-day tour takes travelers on a captivating journey along the island’s northern coast, where they’ll discover picturesque viewpoints, a captivating volcanic crater, and charming villages that showcase the vibrant local culture. With a delicious lunch in Ponta do Sol and a scenic ferry ride back to São Vicente, this excursion promises to be an unforgettable experience for those seeking to uncover the heart of this remarkable destination. What makes this tour so special, however, is the chance to truly connect with the island’s stunning landscapes and its welcoming people.
Key Points
- A full-day tour of Santo Antão island, covering the northern coast and mountains, including visits to volcanic craters, viewpoints, and the picturesque Fontainhas village.
- Lunch in the charming fishing community of Ponta do Sol, followed by a visit to the lush Paul Valley.
- Convenient transportation provided throughout the tour, with a certified guide leading the activities.
- Opportunities for cultural exchange and interaction with friendly local residents, particularly in Fontainhas.
- A scenic coastal and mountain drive with stops at various natural and cultural attractions, showcasing the diverse beauty of Santo Antão.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This full-day tour of Santo Antão island whisks visitors through the northern coast and mountains, offering a comprehensive glimpse into the island’s natural wonders.
Priced from Kd 5,317 per person, the 7-hour excursion departs from Porto Novo, with stops at the Cova volcanic crater, Corda and Delgadinho viewpoints, and the charming village of Fontainhas.
Travelers will enjoy lunch in the picturesque fishing community of Ponta do Sol before continuing to the lush Paul Valley.
The tour includes a certified guide, transportation, lunch, ferry boat tickets, liability insurance, and drinks.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this is an excellent opportunity to experience the beauty of Santo Antão.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins at 8:00 AM with a meeting at the Porto Novo port.
Participants will then embark on a scenic drive through the northern coast and mountains, stopping at the Cova volcanic crater and taking in the views of Corda and Delgadinho.
Next, they’ll visit the Ribeira da Torre valley and the charming village of Fontainhas.
Lunch will be served in the picturesque fishing community of Ponta do Sol, followed by a trip to the lush vegetation of the Paul Valley.
The tour concludes with a return to the Porto Novo port and a ferry boat ride to São Vicente, arriving at the Mindelo port around 6:00 PM.
Included Services
The tour includes a certified guide to lead the day’s activities. Plus, the package provides transportation throughout the journey, with pickup and drop-off details communicated later. A delightful lunch in the picturesque fishing community of Ponta do Sol is also included. Participants will receive ferry boat tickets, liability insurance, and complimentary drinks to enhance their experience.
| Included Services | Details |
|---|---|
| Certified guide | Leads the day’s activities |
| Transfer | Pickup and drop-off provided |
| Lunch | In Ponta do Sol |
| Ferry boat tickets | For the boat ride |
| Liability insurance | Covers participants |
| Drinks | Complimentary |
Important Information for Participants
Regarding the tour’s suitability, it’s not recommended for people over 95 years old or over 70 years old.
Participants should wear comfortable shoes, bring a camera, biodegradable sunscreen, comfortable clothes, beachwear, binoculars, and biodegradable insect repellent.
Baby strollers, bikes, alcohol, and drugs aren’t allowed.
The tour involves:
- Scenic drives through the northern coast and mountains
- Stops at volcanic craters and picturesque viewpoints
- Visiting a charming village and a lush valley
- Interacting with the friendly local population in Fontainhas
- Enjoying a lunch in a picturesque fishing community
Transportation and Interaction
Transportation is provided throughout the tour, with participants being picked up and dropped off as needed.
The tour offers convenient transportation, ensuring a seamless and comfortable experience for all guests.
During the tour, there will be opportunities to interact with the friendly local population, particularly in the charming village of Fontainhas.
This interaction allows participants to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the local culture and way of life.
The tour’s focus on providing transportation and enabling cultural exchange enhances the overall experience, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the beauty and character of Santo Antão.
Scenic Coastal and Mountain Drive
Participants embark on a scenic drive through the northern coast and mountains of Santo Antão, marveling at the island’s diverse and dramatic landscapes.
The tour takes them to:
- The Cova volcanic crater, an impressive geological wonder
- Breathtaking viewpoints of Corda and Delgadinho, showcasing the rugged terrain
- The lush and picturesque Ribeira da Torre valley
- The charming village of Fontainhas, known for its traditional architecture
- Ponta do Sol, a picturesque fishing community where they enjoy lunch
This immersive journey offers a captivating exploration of Santo Antão’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Exploring Picturesque Villages
After exploring the scenic coastal and mountain landscapes, the tour takes participants to enjoy the charm of Santo Antão’s picturesque villages.
One of the highlights is the visit to Fontainhas, a charming village known for its colorful houses and traditional architecture. Visitors can wander through its narrow streets, interact with the friendly locals, and get a glimpse of the island’s rich cultural heritage.
The tour also includes a stop in the Ribeira da Torre valley, offering an opportunity to appreciate the lush vegetation and natural beauty of the island.
These quaint villages provide a delightful contrast to the grand vistas encountered earlier, allowing participants to fully experience the diversity of Santo Antão.
Lunch in Ponta Do Sol
The tour’s lunch break takes participants to Ponta do Sol, a picturesque fishing community on the island’s southern coast.
This seaside village offers a charming setting for a midday meal, with its colorful houses, cobblestone streets, and panoramic ocean views.
During the lunch stop, travelers can:
- Savor local seafood dishes, such as grilled tuna or octopus stew
- Sip on a refreshing glass of the island’s famous Grogue, a traditional Cape Verdean spirit
- Explore the quaint harbor and watch fishermen mend their nets
- Visit the historic Nossa Senhora do Rosário church, dating back to the 16th century
- Stroll through the lively town square, where locals gather to socialize and enjoy the sunshine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There an Option for a Private Tour?
The tour information does not explicitly mention a private tour option. However, many tour providers offer private tours upon request, often at an additional cost. Customers can inquire about a private tour when booking the excursion.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Individual Preferences?
The tour can be customized to individual preferences. Customers can request modifications to the itinerary, such as adding or removing stops, adjusting the duration, or personalizing the experience to their interests and needs.
Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available?
The tour provider occasionally offers discounts or special deals, such as group rates or seasonal promotions. Customers are advised to check the website or contact the provider directly for the latest offers and availability.
Can the Tour Be Booked for a Larger Group?
The tour can accommodate larger groups. Prices may vary based on group size, but group discounts are often available. Interested parties should inquire with the tour provider for more details on booking for a group.
What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for the Tour?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can reserve their spot now and pay later, providing flexibility in planning their trip.
The Sum Up
This full-day tour of Santo Antão’s northern coast and mountainous landscapes offers a captivating glimpse into the island’s natural beauty and vibrant local culture. Travelers will experience the breathtaking Cova volcanic crater, picturesque viewpoints, and the charming village of Fontainhas, before indulging in a delicious lunch in Ponta do Sol. The tour concludes with a scenic ferry ride back to São Vicente, leaving participants with lasting memories of their exploration of this stunning island destination.
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