Cape Verde – Hiking, Music…and Carnival!
A Deep-Dive into the Landscape and Culture
Overview
This small archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic had been on our radar for a long time: Cabo Verde, 800 km off the coast of West Africa.
We were blown away during our recon in January 2025! We discovered some of the most jaw-droppingly beautiful landscapes we have ever experienced – surreal jagged mountain ridges cut through by verdant green valleys, colourful villages clinging to sheer cliffs with cobblestone trails winding between them.
These are ‘living paths’ built and maintained by hand. They are still used by local people to get to their fields and to villages on the coast. Wherever we wandered we met friendly people carrying goods on their heads, or on their way to their crops high up on beautifully terraced slopes.
Click to play video!
Naturally, we also checked out the coastlines. The hikes along the coastal trails were no less dramatic. We found fishing villages tucked into tiny harbours with huge waves raging just beyond the breakwater. On protected beaches we swam in the delicious 24C° ocean and watched fishermen and women landing their catch and selling it straight from the boat.
Click to play video!
And the music! From the driving rhythm of Batuko drumming and dancing, to the soulful melodies made famous by Cesária Evora, it’s an integral part of the Cabo Verde culture.
Click to play video!
Join the first Hidden Places Cape Verde Adventure in February 2026. The company founders Maria Coffey and Dag Goering will be accompanying a small group on what promises to be an unforgettable experience.
Proposed Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive in Mindelo
At the airport, meet our driver and transfer to our boutique hotel in the old colonial centre of town. We gather with the other Hidden Places guests for sundowners and a trip briefing, followed by a welcome dinner.
Meals: D
Day 2 Exploring the Cultural Heart of the Cape Verde Islands
After breakfast we step out of our hotel for a walking tour of the nearby quarters where street art has had a transformative impact on residents lives. We carry on to discover the rich musical heritage of the island including a visit to a renowned instrument builder and musician who gives us a short workshop on the various Cabo Verdean music styles.
We pay homage to Cesaria Evora, a legendary singer from the islands and see preparations for the upcoming Carnival.
Meals: B, L, D
Day 3 – 4 Western Santo Antao Island
In the morning we take a ferry to neighbouring Santo Antao island where we transfer to the arid western part of the island. After settling into a remote ecolodge our base for the next 2 days. From here explore the surrounding volcanic landscape on foot.
Meals: B, L, D
Day 5 – 8 Northeastern Santo Antao
Over several days we hike through some of the world’s most stunning scenery on ‘living’ cobble stone paths. While the paths are well maintained the elevation gains can be challenging. Whenever possible, we will offer an easier option for casual hikers as well and a more demanding hike for advanced hikers.
Accommodations will be 2 nights in a small family run hotel and 2 nights in a standard hotel.
Meals: B, L, D on all days
Day 9 Mindelo Carnival
We embark on the ferry back to Mindelo where we check into our hotel overlooking the port. After lunch we have immerse ourselves in the Carnival festivities and celebrate our exploratory expedition with a farewell dinner. Meals: B, L,D
Day 11 Departure from Mindelo
We transfer to Mindelo airport to start our journey home, or to our next destination.
Meals: B
End of services
Please note: The itinerary is subject to change depending on weather conditions and other factors beyond our control.
We think of our itineraries as melodies: they have a beginning and an end, a certain arc, dramatic highlights and a few surprises. We like to improvise, to adapt to the mood of our guests or to circumstances that arise — an invitation to a traditional wedding, say, or a local ethnic festival…
Crafting beautiful, harmonious trips with delightful twists is our trade mark and passion.
FAQ
How fit do I have to be for this trip?
This trip requires a good fitness level. The hikes are generally 3 to 4 hours per day with an elevation gain of 500 to 1000 metres. However we want to cater to different abilities so on most days there will be the option of doing a more demanding route for advanced hikers.
For example, the longest ‘demanding option’ is about 16 km with about 1400m ascent and the same amount descending which will take 6 to 7 hours. That same day the shorter option would be on the same path but returning after a couple of hours with an ascent and decent of about 900 metres. Most other days the hiking is up to 4 hours per day.
The trails are not rough but they are usually steep cobblestone paths with many steps which can be taxing on knees.
How do I get there?
You fly to São Vicente Airport (VXE), which you can reach from Lisbon and other European hubs. Azores Airlines may also fly directly to Cape Verde from Boston, MA.
Do I need a visa?
No, but please ensure your passport is valid for 6 months after your entry date. On arrival you will need to pay a 31 Euro Airport Security Tax.
Do I need insurance?
Yes. Medical insurance, including emergency evacuation, is mandatory on all our trips. We also strongly advise you to purchase trip cancellation insurance: make sure it will cover the Land Cost, not just the airfare in case you do have to cancel before the trip starts.
Do I need vaccinations?
Your routine vaccinations (tetanus/diphtheria, polio, etc.) should be up to date. No other vaccinations are required.
I'm a vegetarian, is that a problem?
Not at all, but please let us know in advance, and advise us on your dietary preferences so that we can make appropriate arrangements.
Are bugs a problem?
In general, not at all, however, it’s always worth having some insect repellent along.
What does the trip price cover?
Airport transfers on the first and last days of the trip, ferry tickets, all cultural tour guiding and entrance fees, all accommodation, instruction and equipment, bottled water and meals as shown on the itinerary.
What does the trip price not cover?
International and domestic flights, beverages apart from bottled drinking water, personal insurance and gratuities.
How can I access cash when I’m on the trip?
ATMs are readily available in towns in the Cape Verde Islands.
What clothes and equipment will I need?
When you sign up for the trip, we will provide you with a comprehensive clothes and equipment list.
I’m travelling alone, is that a problem?
Absolutely not. We have many guests who travel with us on their own. They appreciate the camaraderie of our Hidden Places groups, and usually go home with new-found friends. You can opt to share hotel rooms or you can request a single room for a Single Supplement of US $1,650.
Trip Details
Land Cost
Depends on group size.
From US $5950 pp (group of 11 or 12)
Single Supplement
US $1650
Length
10 days
Dates
Scheduled: Feb 09 – 18, 2026
Private: Oct through Jun
Accommodation
9 nights – hotels and boutique ecolodges
Group size
12 guests maximum
Begins and Ends
Mindelo, Cape Verde
Activities
Hiking, cultural tour, traditional food preparation, dancing – it’s Carnival!!
Cape Verde Adventure Next Winter
Hiking to secluded beaches, having delicious swims and meeting a few goats along the way:
All part of scouting a new trip for @insidehiddenplaces in the Cape Verde Islands.
#whenworkispassion #whenworkisnotwork @capeverdelife @daggoering @bookscoffey
Here in Cape Verde- Dag on the way to our sunset bar, for what turned out to be a stunning end to the day.
@bookscoffey @daggoering @cape.verdean @capeverdelife
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