Pico do Fogo
The highest peak in Cape Verde (2,829 m) and an active volcano. From the vast caldera plain of Chã das Caldeiras you can hike to the summit and look over the lava landscape left by the 2014 eruption.
The entire island of Fogo is a volcano, and its name means 'fire' in Portuguese. At its center lies the Chã das Caldeiras caldera, about 9 km across. Rising from it is the young main cone, Pico do Fogo, at 2,829 m the highest point in Cape Verde. The lava from the 2014 to 2015 eruption buried much of two villages inside the caldera. Some residents have since returned and are rebuilding amid the black lava and volcanic ash, growing grapes to make the island's well-known Fogo wine. Climbing to the summit requires a guide. Set out early in the morning. The round trip takes about 5 to 7 hours and climbs roughly 1,000 m over loose volcanic ash. On the way down you can slide down the ash slopes, which is great fun. If your fitness is moderate, you can instead climb the smaller Pico Pequeno cone (the 2014 eruption vent), or hike within the caldera. There are family guesthouses in the village where you can sample the wine and goat cheese. It is about an hour's drive from São Filipe, the island's capital, which has an airport and ferries. The mountain has a large difference between day and night temperatures, so bring warm clothing and plenty of water.
Opening hours
All day (guide required for hiking)
Nearby sights
- Pico Pequeno
- Chã das Caldeiras
- Chã das Caldeiras Wine
- Monte Velha Forest Park
- Bordeira
- Mosteiros
- Ponta da Salina
- São Filipe Historic Centre