From Praia, Baobab Mysterious Tree, Green Valley & Old City Hike
- 3h 30m
- Free cancellation up to 24h before
- 6 languages
- Instant confirmation
Highlights
This unique hike takes you through the lush Ribeira Grande valley, rich in local flora and fauna. One of the main highlights is a stop at Cape Verde’s largest and oldest baobab tree, over 400 years old — a perfect spot for unforgettable photos. You’ll also learn how grogue, the national drink of Cape Verde, is traditionally made, and may even spot the country’s most iconic bird, a proud national symbol. The journey ends in Cidade Velha, the cradle of Cape Verdean culture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you'll explore historical landmarks like Rua Banana, the old church, and the Pelourinho, before being driven back to your accommodation.
Inclusions
What's included
- Pick up and Drop off from Hotel / Harbor
- Transportation
- Professional Tour Guide
Itinerary
Your adventure begins with a convenient pick-up from your hotel. Our friendly driver and guide will take you to the quiet rural area of Calabaceira, just a short drive from Praia.
Start of the Hike: Calabaceira Valley Begin your guided hike through the lush Calabaceira Valley, a hidden gem filled with natural beauty and tranquility. Over the course of approximately 2 hours, you’ll walk 4 kilometers through gentle terrain. Discover Local Agriculture & Flora As you make your way through the valley, you'll pass small local farms and plantations where mango trees, coconut palms, sugarcane, and other endemic plants grow. Your guide will share interesting facts about local crops and traditions. Nature & Wildlife Spotting Keep your eyes open! With a bit of luck, you may encounter monkeys in their natural habitat — a special and unexpected treat along the trail. A highlight of the hike is a stop at a large, ancient tree nestled in the valley — peaceful, photogenic, and steeped in local legend. According to tradition, Charles Darwin described this tree during his 1832 visit to Santiago Island.
Arrive at Cidade Velha Your walk ends in Cidade Velha, Cape Verde's first capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Before your return, enjoy a short walking tour through the historic center, passing by landmarks such as the Sé Cathedral ruins and Pelourinho (the old pillory).
After concluding the hike in the historic Cidade Velha, you’ll begin the scenic drive back to Praia. Sit back and relax as we return Praia. Upon arrival, you'll be dropped off directly at your hotel.
Cancellation
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, for a full refund.
Reviews
4.7
- 54
- 42
- 30
- 20
- 10
Ratings come from 6 reviews collected by our booking partner. They are travellers' own words, in the order they were written — never reordered to flatter the experience.
Know before you go
- Pickup
- Pickup is included for everyone.
- Ticket type
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Group size
- Up to 99 travellers
- Operated by
- Kapverden Tours
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
How it compares in Praia
- Its from-price is 21% below the median of the 52 experiences we list in Praia.
- Its length is typical for the group.
- By number of reviews it ranks 16 of 52.
- The operator lists free cancellation on it.
About Praia
Praia is the capital of Cape Verde, a city on Santiago island's south coast built around a colonial plateau, with busy markets and strong musical roots.
Praia is the capital of Cape Verde, a country of volcanic islands off West Africa, and lies on the south coast of Santiago, the largest island. The old city sits on the Plateau, a flat-topped headland with pastel colonial buildings, a central square with a church, and the presidential palace. Below it, the market sells fish, fruit, spices and cloth, and beaches stretch along the bay.
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