One of the most impressive valleys in all of Cape Verde is the Paúl Valley (Ribeira de Paúl). The lifeline runs through Santo Antao for several kilometers. It's hard to believe that these verdant slopes brimming with fertility were once covered in glowing, hostile lava. Today only the Cova crater bears witness to the volcanic past.

 

Start: Cova Crater

End: Vila das Pombas

Altitude difference: -1280m/ +10m

Topics: agriculture, rural life, volcanism, flora

Physical rating: medium

Group size: 1-12

Included: transportation, local guide (English speaking), lunch or packed lunch, contribution to community tourism; exclusive drinks

Individualisable: yes, many other hikes with different levels of difficulty are possible in and around the Paúl Valley

Bookable: as a single hike or part of an individual hiking trip

 

Why you will love this hike

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A hike through the Paúl Valley gives deep insights into the life of the people in the countryside and the typical agriculture in Cape Verde.

Depending on the time of the day, many soothing smells and soothing noises caress the visitor: in the cooler, herbaceous morning air, the women light the wood fire for the coffee, sizzle the traditional catchupa, the calls of people and animals echo through the silence.

During the sugar cane harvest and the high season for grogue distillation, a sweetish smell can be perceived almost all day long. From everywhere, men haul the heavy sugar cane plants to the distilleries. The cries of the workers echo through the valley. Every now and then a goat bleats along the ancient cobbled donkey paths. The work on the countless terraced fields is progressing slowly but steadily.

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On our website you find some of the most beautiful and impressive hikes from Santo Antão. This is just a first selection. We would be happy to create a program for several days for you based on your fitness level and your wishes. We are also happy to consider alternative activities such as boat trips, strolls through town, cooking courses or relaxation days. It is also possible for us to arrange accommodation for you. We prefer to speak to you personally. In this way we can find out in a dialogue what you want and answer directly to some urgent questions. Or send us a list of your ideas to give us a first impression. Let´s arrange a personal conversation via WhatsAPP! Here is the contact form. Or contact us directly via WhatsAPP on +238 95 22 724.

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"Freedom is beyond the limits we set ourselves."