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Cova - Paúl Trail, Santo Antao

About Cova - Paúl Trail, Santo Antao

 Cova - Paúl Trail is one of the most memorable hikes on Santo Antão, with a route that starts high at the crater and drops through steep green valleys, farming terraces, and small villages on the way down. What stands out most is how much the scenery changes over the course of the walk, so it feels more rewarding than a standard viewpoint stop. It suits a trip that leans scenic, active, and a little more immersive. 

When to visit

The best time to hike is the long dry season, when trails are more reliable, visibility is clearer, and conditions are more comfortable from crater rim to valley floor.

Most popular: December - May

Spring · Mar, Apr, May

Spring is one of the strongest seasons for the Cova–Paúl Trail, with dry weather, clearer skies, and comfortable hiking conditions across Santo Antão. The route feels especially rewarding at this time, with strong visibility from the crater and good trail conditions on the steep descent into the valley.

Summer · Jun, Jul, Aug

Summer remains workable through June and July, but by August humidity and rain chances begin to rise. The trail can still be spectacular, though conditions become less predictable and the steep sections feel tougher in warmer, more humid weather.

Autumn · Sep, Oct, Nov

Autumn is the wettest part of the year in Cape Verde, making this the least reliable season for the trail. The landscape can look greener and more dramatic, but cloud, showers, and slippery terrain can reduce visibility and trail comfort.

Winter · Dec, Jan, Feb

Winter is dry, breezy, and highly appealing for hiking on Santo Antão. This is one of the best times to experience the trail, with lower rainfall, cooler air, and clearer views over the crater, ridges, and Paúl Valley.

Weather Highlights

  • Summer high

    28°C / 82°F

  • Winter low

    19°C / 66°F

  • Rain

    21 days

  • Snow

    0 days

Location

Getting There

Cova - Paúl Trail is located on Santo Antão, starting near Cova Crater above Porto Novo and descending into Paúl Valley, with the trailhead typically reached in about 1 hour by road from Porto Novo after arriving by ferry from São Vicente.

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