Ribeira Grande — The Great Gorge

The Ribeira Grande (Portuguese for "Great Stream") is Santo Antão's most spectacular valley and one of the most impressive gorges in Cape Verde. From the plateau at Cova (an extinct volcanic crater at 1,170 meters), the steep walls plunge over 1,000 meters deep, terraced fields cling to dizzying slopes, and at the bottom, a stream meanders through tropical vegetation to the sea at Ponta do Sol.

The Hike: Cova → Ribeira Grande → Ponta do Sol

This hike is the absolute classic on Santo Antão and one of the best day hikes in Cape Verde. The path begins at the crater rim of the Cova de Paúl — an extinct volcano whose crater floor is used as farmland (a surreal sight: corn and beans grow in the volcanic crater). From here, you descend into the mighty gorge of the Ribeira Grande.

The path winds along terraced slopes, past small villages where Grogue is distilled and cassava is grown. The vegetation changes from eucalyptus and pine at higher elevations to sugarcane, bananas, and mangoes at the valley floor. The steep walls on both sides are breathtaking — you hike through a green canyon that changes with every step.

The path ends in Ponta do Sol, the northernmost place in Cape Verde — a charming town with colorful houses, a small harbor, and the best sunset on the island. Here, enjoy a beer at a beach bar and reflect on the day — perfect.

Practical Info

• Distance: approx. 12 km (one-way)
• Duration: 4–6 hours (Descent: 1,170 m → 0 m)
• Difficulty: Moderate — the path is steep but well walkable. Sturdy footwear is a must.
• Transport: By Aluguer from Ribeira Grande or Porto Novo to the starting point Cova. Return transfer from Ponta do Sol by Aluguer.
• Guide: Recommended but not mandatory — the path is relatively well-marked. A local guide costs 20–30€ and enriches the tour with knowledge about plants, villages, and history.