I visited Santo Antao with 0 expectations and its beauty surprised me so much. If you are also planning to visit this hidden gem, here are some down-to-earth tips to make your visit as smooth and enjoyable as possible:
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Embrace the hiking culture
Santo Antao is a hiker’s dream come true. Therefore the trails range from easy strolls to challenging treks, so pick the one that suits your fitness level. Don’t forget sturdy shoes, a water bottle, and a hat – the sun here can be quite intense. If you are hesitant about hiking by yourself, you can book a tour guide that will take you on the most beautiful trails to show you all the highlights that Santo Antao has to offer.
A few treks that Santa Antao has to offer:
If you have a lot of time to spend and you want to hike all around Santa Antao, a 3-day hiking tour around Santa Antao is highly recommended. This tour compresses the best hikes and experiences that the island has to offer. In only 3 days you will get to know the most beautiful places of the island. You stay in high quality accommodation and are accompanied by the best tour guides of Santo Antao.
Get to know the villages
Take the time to explore Santo Antao’s traditional villages. You’ll find friendly locals happy to share a smile and a conversation. Undoubtedly it’s a different pace of life, so relax and soak in the authenticity.
Try local transportation
While renting a car is an option, consider trying the local transportation. Colectivos (shared vans) and alugueres (shared taxis) are common, offering a chance to mingle with locals and enjoy the scenic routes without worrying about navigating the island.
True local cuisine
The food scene in Santo Antao is a delightful mix of fresh seafood and hearty stews. Don’t miss out on catching a meal in a local eatery. It’s not only budget-friendly but also a fantastic way to taste authentic Cape Verdean flavors. A few traditional dishes are:
- Cachupa is the official national dish of Cape Verde, consisting mainly of beans and corn (maize).
- Feijoada, perhaps influenced by the Brazilian or Portuguese versions of the dish, is a slow-cooked bean stew.
- Feijao Verde is a seasonal dish available only when the pigeon peas are still green as opposed to dried.
- Pastels. Pastels are little moon-shaped pastries filled with fish or chicken.
Enjoy coastal drives responsibly
The coastal roads of Santo Antao offer stunning views, especially around sunrise and sunset. Plan your drives early in the morning or late in the afternoon to witness the most beautiful landscape. While driving can be peaceful and the coastal roads offer breathtaking views, the roads can also be winding and steep. If you’re driving, take it slow and steady. Be aware of oncoming traffic, especially around blind corners. Honk your horn to alert others on tight turns, this is a common practice on the island.
Don’t be afraid to take detours. Some of the best-kept secrets lie off the beaten path. Follow signs to viewpoints, local villages, or hidden coves. You might stumble upon some gems.
If navigating tricky roads isn’t your thing, consider hiring a local driver. They know the terrain, ensuring a safe and stress-free journey. Plus, you get the chance to learn more about the island from someone who calls it home.
Learn a few basic phrases
While many locals understand some English or French, a few basic Portuguese or Cape Verdean Creole phrases can go a long way. Locals appreciate the effort, and it adds a personal touch to your experience. Here are some simple expressions to get you started:
Portuguese Phrases:
- Hello – Olá
- Good morning – Bom dia
- Good afternoon – Boa tarde
- Good evening/night – Boa noite
- Thank you – Obrigado (for males) / Obrigada (for females)
- Please – Por favor
- Excuse me – Com licença / Desculpe
- Yes – Sim
- No – Não
- How much is this? – Quanto custa isso?
- Where is…? – Onde fica…?
- I don’t understand – Não entendo
- Do you speak English? – Fala inglês?
Cape Verdean Creole (Kriolu) Phrases:
- Hello – Bon dia
- How are you? – Kon ta bai?
- Thank you – Obrigadu (for males) / Obrigada (for females)
- Please – Pofavor
- Excuse me – Skusa / Diskulpa
- Goodbye – Ate logo
- Yes – Sim / Si
- No – Nao
- I’m sorry – Sinti
- Goodnight – Bon noiti
- Where is…? – Unde é…?
- I don’t understand – N ka ta intendi
Accommodation tips
Finding the right accommodation is an important part of planning any trip. Santo Antao has some hidden gems that I really want to share with you:
- RM Green Hotel: If you are looking for a place to unwind after all the hiking or just from life, this is the perfect place. I stayed here for 3 nights and the ocean views were STUNNING. The pool is a big plus.
- Tienne Del Mar: Tienne Del Mar is perfectly placed for walking and hiking in the mountains. It also offers a great ocean view with a pool to dive in after a long hot day.
- Aldea Panoramica: Aldea Panoramica is located in the Paul Valley and is surrounded by beautiful hills and mountainous views.
- Kasa Tambla: Kata Tambla also has an amazing view and is located near the waterfront in central Ponta do Sol. A big plus is that the hotel has an ecological approach.
Santo Antao’s beauty lies in its untouched landscapes. Be a responsible traveler – stick to marked trails, avoid littering, and respect the natural environment. Let’s keep this paradise pristine for future visitors.
Santo Antao is a place to unwind, connect with nature, and experience the genuine warmth of Cape Verdean hospitality. With these practical tips, you’re all set to make the most of your journey to this off-the-beaten-path destination. Enjoy your adventure!
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