Santiago: Hike from Praia to Monte Tchota and Pico de Antónia Santiago: Beach to Monte Tchota – Pico Leão – Monte Tchota Hike

Discover the spectacular natural beauty of the island of Santiago on an exciting hike to the summit of Pico de Antónia, the island’s highest mountain at 4,573 feet (1,394 meters), with a picnic included.
Monte Tchota – Pico d’Antonia Hike, Santiago Island

1 – Pick-up in Praia and arrival at Monte Tchota
The experience begins with pickup from your hotel in Praia. After meeting your guide, you will travel by car towards the mountainous interior of the island of Santiago.

Along the way, you will be able to see rural landscapes, small villages, and farmland that reveal the authentic side of the island. After approximately an hour’s drive, we will arrive at Monte Tchota, the starting point of the hike. Here, your guide will give a short introduction to the trail before the activity begins.

2 – Hike to Pico d’Antonia
From Monte Tchota, you will follow nature trails through the Natural Park, located at an elevation of approximately 2,625 feet (800 meters). Known for its unique microclimate, lush vegetation and rich biodiversity, this park offers a striking contrast to the drier areas of the island.
During the hike, you will continue towards the majestic Pico d'Antónia, the island's highest point at 1,394 meters (4,573 feet) above sea level. As you approach the summit, you will enjoy incredible panoramic views of the São Jorge Valley and, on clear days, you may even be able to see the island of Maio and the volcano on the island of Fogo on the horizon.
The hike lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours, including a break for a light picnic and opportunities to admire the natural scenery along the way.
After completing the route, you will return to Monte Txota Natural Park and then be taken back to your hotel, taking with you unforgettable memories of one of the island’s most breathtaking trekking experiences.
Picnic included:
During the hike, participants will enjoy a complimentary picnic in the midst of nature, at a peaceful spot in the mountains near Pico Leão, which is ideal for resting, taking in the scenery, and recharging.

3 – Return to Monte Txota and back to Praia
After the break, participants will begin the journey back to Monte Txota, following the same trail through the mountains. On the way back, participants will continue to enjoy the natural landscapes and the tranquility of the Santiago countryside.

The hike is approximately 10 km (6 miles) round-trip and takes about 4 hours. The trail is considered difficult and is recommended for participants who are in good physical condition and equipped with hiking boots and suitable clothing.
Difficulty: Difficult
Level: 5
*** Suitable hiking clothing and equipment

At the end of the activity, transportation will take participants back to the city of Praia, where this adventure experience in the Santiago mountains comes to an end.

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.