Practical Info Santo Antão

Arrival

Santo Antão has no airport — the only connection is the ferry from São Vicente (Mindelo → Porto Novo). The shipping company CV Interilhas operates several crossings daily. The journey takes 1 hour and costs about 800 CVE (approx. 7€) for locals and tourists alike. The sea in the Canal de São Vicente can be rough — those prone to seasickness should take precautions (take travel tablets, breathe fresh air on deck).

Transport on the Island

Santo Antão has a limited road network, but the main road from Porto Novo over the mountains to Ribeira Grande and further to Ponta do Sol is spectacular: hairpin bends at 1,000-meter cliffs, tunnels through rocks, and views that take your breath away.

• Aluguers (shared taxis): The main means of transport. Hiace minibuses and pickups run fixed routes between Porto Novo, Ribeira Grande, Paúl, and Ponta do Sol. Prices: 2–5€. They leave when full — bring patience.
• Taxis: For specific routes (e.g., to the starting point of a hike), you can charter a taxi. Negotiate the price beforehand: Porto Novo → Cova approx. 15–20€.
• Rental Cars: Possible, but only for experienced drivers. The roads are steep, winding, and partly unpaved. All-wheel drive is recommended, especially in the rainy season.
• On Foot: The best way to experience Santo Antão. The hiking trails connect the places, and the trail network is the island's historical transport network.

Accommodation

Santo Antão has no large hotels — accommodations are pensions, guesthouses, and small eco-lodges. This is part of the charm: you stay with families, eat at the communal table, and get to know the island from the inside.

• Ponta do Sol: Best selection of accommodations. Pensions from 25€/double room, charming guesthouses with sea views from 40€.
• Ribeira Grande: Functional accommodations, a good starting point for hikes.
• Paúl: Quiet eco-lodges and family pensions in the middle of nature. Ideal for hikers wanting to stay in the valley.
• Porto Novo: Only necessary as a transit station — the ferry docks here, but the north side is more attractive.

Food

On Santo Antão, you eat simple but fantastic: Grilled fish straight from the boat, Cachupa from the pot, fresh tropical fruits from the tree. In the pensions, meals are often served at the communal table — a three-course menu for 6–10€ is standard. In Ponta do Sol, there are a few small restaurants with sea views, where fresh tuna with manioc and vegetables is a feast.