Take the ferry from Mindelo to the dramatic volcanic island of Santo Antão, then hike the legendary Ribeira Grande valley — a deep green gorge of banana groves, cobbled levada paths and cliff-hanging hamlets. A private guide and a home-cooked village lunch complete the experience.
What to expect
The ferry departs Porto Grande and docks at Porto Novo in around 60 minutes, where your private guide meets you. You drive up to the rim of the Ribeira Grande valley before descending a centuries-old cobbled path flanked by bougainvillea, sugar cane and towering basalt walls. Lunch is served at a farmstead table with sweeping valley views. You return on the afternoon ferry in time for all-aboard.
Good to know
The ferry (operated by ARMAS) runs several times daily; the 07:00 or 08:00 departure is recommended to allow a full 5–6 hours on Santo Antão. Confirm your all-aboard time: the crossing back takes 60 minutes so allow generous buffer. Book guide in advance; ferry tickets at the terminal (no advance booking required). Moderate fitness needed — trail is 3–4 km with some uneven stone steps.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Porto Grande — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.
More to do in Porto Grande
- Private Island Safari: São Vicente's Wild Interior & Crater Views
- Mindelo's Creole Soul: Private Cultural Walking Tour with a Local Expert
- Sunset Catamaran Sail & Snorkel: Baía das Gatas & Marine Reserve
- Grogue Trail: Private Cape Verdean Rum Distillery & Tasting Journey
- Whale Watching & Dolphin Safari: Atlantic Pelagic Charter from Mindelo