São Nicolau
São Nicolau, located in the windward group, is a paradise for nature lovers. Like Santo Antão, São Nicolau is a mountainous island that has agriculture and fishing as its main activities. São Nicolau has a rugged terrain, with high peaks and deep valleys that, affected by erosion, have large ravines that end in small coastal platforms. On the slopes of São Nicolau you can find sugar cane, coffee, beans and some fruits similar to Santo Antão. You will also find there the Dragoeiro, plant in danger of extinction in Cape Verde. The island is not as explored as the other Cape Verde islands so there are still many mountain trails waiting to be discovered. If you want to go to São Nicolau, take a domestic flight from Sal or S. Vicente islands or a boat from São Vicente or from Santiago.
Places to Visit on São Nicolau
National park Monte Gordo
The National Park Monte Gordo is located in the west of the island and has approximately 952 hectares of rich ecology. In the park there is also the highest mountain with 1,300 meters of altitude, from where all the islands of Cape Verde can be seen on days with high visibility, because São Nicolau is practically in the center of the archipelago. During the ascent of this mountain you will be sure to walk above the clouds. Biodiversity in the park is unique and varied due to climate change. From areas with high humidity due to fog and rain to very dry areas. There are 32 endemic plant species, most of which are threatened with extinction. The dragon tree, also known as the dragon’s blood tree, is the symbol of the natural park.
Ribeira Brava
Ribeira Brava, the main urban center of São Nicolau, dates back to the colonial era, with its colorful buildings, narrow streets and beautiful green gardens. In the center there are many narrow and steep streets with small typical shops. You’ll also find an impressive cathedral dating back to the 17th century.
Preguiça
Preguiça is a settlement in the central part of the island of São Nicolau, Cape Verde. It is situated on the south coast, 6 km south of Ribeira Brava. It served as the port of Ribeira Brava, after the older Porto de Lapa, 6 km to the northeast, had been abandoned in 1653 due to pirate attacks. The settlement was mentioned as Paraghisi in the 1747 map by Jacques-Nicolas Bellin. In 1820 the Forte do Príncipe Real, now ruined, was built to protect the port. Preguiça’s port consists of a stone quay and a short mole. Preguiça Airport is located 3 km north of the village.This fishing port was in the far past an important center for whaling. From this small village you will have a great view of the volcanic plateau. There is also still admire a Portuguese fort.
Carbeirinho
Carbeirinho is one of the most beautiful coastal landscapes of the Cape Verde islands. The limestone cave and rocks are at sea. They are carved by the wind and the sea and resemble an impressive moon landscape. The rocks and cliffs of Carbeirinho have a diverse color palette. Cabeirinho is situated near a bay with a beautiful black shining sandy beach. It is a favorite place for the locals to recreate during the weekend. The composition of the sand is supposed to contain certain medicinal properties. The sandy beach is also a popular spot for turtles and a good place to spot dolphins. Carbeirinho is one of the seven natural wonders of the Cape Verde islands. The natural heritage of the archipelago. The seven natural wonders are spread over the different islands of Cape Verde.
Hike on São Nicolau
Apart from the hiking trails in the national park Monte Gordo, there are many other routes recommended. For example, in the middle of the island there is a route where you can see the crater of an active volcano. Or a route where you decend to the coast through different colorful plantations of orange trees and papayas. The large amount of varied trails of Sao Nicolau makes it therefore one of the best islands of Cape Verde for walking.
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