Things To Do
in Assomada
Assomada is a highland market town on central Santiago Island, Cabo Verde, perched on a green plateau with sweeping valley views. It serves as the administrative and commercial heart of Santa Catarina, weaving rural life with a welcoming urban vibe. The weekly market draws farmers, fishermen, and craftspeople selling produce, bread, and homemade goods in a lively, colorful scene.
Surrounded by terraced hills and winding rural lanes, Assomada is a great base for exploring island scenery and Cabo Verdean culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey at the vibrant Assomada Market, where locals gather to buy fresh produce and handmade goods. Engage with the friendly vendors and experience the lively atmosphere filled with the aromas of local cuisine. Savor a traditional breakfast from a nearby café, enjoying freshly brewed coffee and sweet pastries.
After a leisurely morning, explore the nearby village of Rui Vaz, known for its stunning mountain views and hiking trails. Take a guided tour to understand the history and culture of the area, stopping at small local farms along the way. Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local eatery, tasting the famous cachupa, a hearty stew.
As the sun sets, return to Assomada and unwind at a local bar. Experience the sounds of live music while mingling with locals who share stories about their beloved island. Reflect on your day's adventures over a glass of grogue, the local sugar cane liquor.
Visit the Museu Evaristo de Carvalho to learn about the rich history and culture of Cabo Verde, with exhibits featuring traditional crafts and artifacts. Engage with knowledgeable staff who can provide insights into the island's past. This immersive experience offers a perfect introduction to the heritage of Assomada.
Spend the afternoon exploring the historic center of Assomada, wandering through its streets filled with colonial architecture and colorful murals. Stop at local artisan shops to purchase unique handcrafted souvenirs. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, sampling fresh seafood caught that day.
In the evening, head to a local community center where cultural performances often take place. Enjoy traditional music and dance, immersing yourself in the vibrant local culture. Cap off the night with a stroll under the stars, appreciating the serene beauty of Assomada.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $25-60 |
| 🚎One-way local transport ticket | $0.5-1.5 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming people and a strong sense of community
- Access to fresh, seasonal produce and authentic local cuisine
- Scenic highland landscapes and manageable day trips to surrounding villages
- Affordable costs and fewer crowds than coastal tourist hubs
- Limited nightlife and fewer big-brand amenities than bigger cities
- Some infrastructure and road quality can be variable
- English proficiency can be limited outside tourist-friendly spots
- Occasional limited options for vegetarian meals in very small eateries
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Kuma bu sta?" - How are you?
- "Obrigadu / Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Onde fica…?" - Where is…?
- "Fala kriolu?" - Do you speak Creole?
Places to Visit in Assomada
Visit one of these nice places.
Early-morning market scenes with colorful stalls, farmers at work, and candid daily-life moments—perfect for documentary-style photography.
A compact, appealing church with a simple colonial façade; good for architectural shots and quiet interior photography.
Rural terraces surrounding the town provide sweeping views at golden hour, with lines of crops and traditional irrigation patterns.
Higher viewpoints along the plateau offer panoramic scenes of Assomada below and the surrounding green hills.
Food in Assomada
Assomada Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-cooked maize stew with beans, vegetables, and meat or fish; a Cabo Verde staple best enjoyed with family-style servings at local eateries.
Must-Try!
Bright fish soup seasoned with herbs and onions; a comforting coastal dish commonly found in market-area restaurants.
Cornmeal cake often enjoyed as a side or dessert; pairs well with coffee or a light snack from street stalls.
Traditional Cape Verdean sugarcane spirit; usually served in small glasses after meals or with fruit.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market stalls selling fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, cheese, and bread; great for tasting everyday island flavors and observing local life.
Small stalls offering fried pastries, pastel de peixe (fish pastries), milho pão, and local snacks—ideal for quick bites on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a friendly 'bom dia' or 'boa tarde'; a handshake is common, and addressing elders with courtesy is appreciated.
Dress modestly, particularly in churches and rural areas; shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting religious sites.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in intimate or family settings; a smile and polite request go a long way.
Safety
Tipping in Assomada
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. In restaurants, a small 5–10% tip is common if service is good; leave small change for café counters or street vendors.
Cash (CVE or USD) is widely accepted in markets and small eateries. Some larger establishments may accept credit cards or mobile payments, but carry cash for daily transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with fresh greenery; ideal for hiking and outdoor photography without extreme heat.
Hot and dry with cooling trade winds; expect sunny weather and clear skies—great for outdoor activities but carry water.
Warm to hot with the start of the rainy period; occasional afternoon showers can bring lush scenery and dramatic lighting.
Cooler nights and dry conditions; comfortable for daytime exploration, with cooler evenings suitable for stargazing.
Assomada at Night
Hiking in Assomada
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible hiking routes near Assomada with viewpoints over the plateau and valley; suitable for day trips and photography.
Low-elevation trails through farmland terraces around Assomada, offering immersive insights into island agriculture and daily life.
Airports
How to reach Assomada by plane.
Main international gateway for Cabo Verde, located on Santiago Island. From Assomada, expect a several-hour road trip to reach Praia.
Major international hub serving Cabo Verde, located on Sal Island; useful for connections via inter-island flights or other international itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families who have lived in the area for generations, with ties to farming, fishing, and crafts. The community often gathers around markets and churches, maintaining strong cultural traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
By far the most popular sport in Cabo Verde, with local leagues and community games throughout the islands.
Common in schools and community centers; casual pickup games are a regular pastime.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Assomada.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in many eateries, focusing on corn, bean, potato, and vegetable dishes; ask for cachupa without meat or fish, and opt for veggie stews or salads.