Things To Do
in Cova Figueira
Cova Figueira sits on the Cape Verdean coast, a small village famed for its volcanic scenery and salty-sea air. The settlement blends fishing tradition with hillside views, offering a calm, welcoming vibe. Visitors are drawn to the market stalls, local music, and easy access to outdoor adventures.
It’s a gateway to authentic island life with a laid-back rhythm and generous hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arrival at the small village of Cova Figueira, get settled into your accommodation and take a deep breath of the fresh, salty sea air. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling some traditional Cabo Verdean pastries like pão doce. After breakfast, take a gentle stroll along the coastline, soaking in the beautiful views of the ocean and the surrounding cliffs.
Spend your afternoon exploring the village, visiting local markets and immersing yourself in the culture. Engage with the friendly locals and learn about their daily lives, perhaps picking up some handcrafted souvenirs. As the sun begins to dip, head to the nearby beach for some relaxation and scenic photography.
As night falls, enjoy a traditional Cabo Verdean dinner at a seaside restaurant, savoring the fresh seafood the region is known for. After dinner, gather with locals and fellow travelers for some live music in the village square, where you can dance to the vibrant sounds of Morna and Coladeira. Cap off the night by stargazing from the beach, under the clear, unobstructed night sky.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a guided hike through the stunning landscapes surrounding Cova Figueira. The diverse terrain offers incredible opportunities to experience the unique vegetation and rugged beauty of the region. Take in panoramic views as you ascend to higher elevations, making sure to capture the landscape with your camera.
After a fulfilling morning hike, enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature, with local ingredients to fuel your adventure. Spend the afternoon exploring hidden gems along the trails, discovering small waterfalls and lush spots that showcase the rich biodiversity. Make your way back to Cova Figueira, allowing time to rest and refresh yourself.
For dinner, try one of the local restaurants renowned for their traditional cachupa, a flavorful stew that symbolizes Cabo Verde’s culinary heritage. Enjoy the warm ambiance and vibrant atmosphere as you dine with other travelers and locals. The evening can be spent sharing stories and laughter around a bonfire on the beach, making connections that last well beyond your visit.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee and snack | $2-5 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $45-100 |
| 🚎Local bus or taxi ride | $1-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and live music scene
- Stunning volcanic landscapes and beaches
- Accessible day trips to nearby trails and viewpoints
- Limited nightlife in small villages
- Varying road conditions outside main towns
- Smaller selection of Western-style amenities in remote areas
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica…?" - Where is…?
Places to Visit in Cova Figueira
Visit one of these nice places.
A sweeping viewpoint above the coast, perfect for golden-hour landscapes and long exposure shots of waves.
Black-sand beach with dramatic basalt formations and moody light—great for sunset silhouettes.
High vantage point near the village offering expansive views of volcanic terrain and distant villages.
Food in Cova Figueira
Cova Figueira Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-cooked maize and bean stew with corn, potatoes, and meat or fish; a comforting, communal dish emblematic of Cape Verde.
Must-Try!
Vegetarian version featuring maize, beans, corn, tubers, and greens; a flavorful alternative in markets and restaurants.
Bright fish soup with tomatoes, onions, and herbs; ideal with crusty bread and lime.
Flaky fish pastries or turnovers, popular as street fare near markets and piers.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning market offering fresh fish, vegetables, bread, and ready-to-eat snacks; ideal for picking up a picnic or souvenirs.
Open-air stalls near the quay selling fried fish, milho frito, and seasonal fruit; great for casual meals on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and say bom dia or bom tarde. A handshake is common; maintain polite eye contact.
Ask permission before photographing people or private spaces; avoid taking photos of ceremonies without consent.
Dress modestly in villages; swimwear is appropriate only at beaches and resort areas.
Safety
Tipping in Cova Figueira
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. In restaurants, rounding up or leaving 5–10% is common; for cafes and guides, small tips for good service are appreciated.
Cash (Cape Verdean escudo, CVE) is widely used; many tourist spots accept major credit cards, but carry cash for markets and small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Generally sunny, with steady trade winds keeping temperatures comfortable; great for outdoor activities and beach days.
Higher humidity and occasional rain showers; landscapes are lush, but roads can be slippery and seas may be rough.
Cova Figueira at Night
Hiking in Cova Figueira
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging ascent to the crater rim with otherworldly volcanic scenery; guides and permits recommended.
A scenic valley route through terraced farms and lush terrain, offering panoramic overlooks.
Airports
How to reach Cova Figueira by plane.
Main international gateway on Sal Island; transfer to Cova Figueira typically involves domestic flight or long overland routes.
São Vicente airport; useful for regional connections between islands.
Santiago’s airport; alternative access point, especially if combining with a mainland itinerary.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A diverse community blending African, European, and Indigenous influences; widespread use of Cape Verdean Creole and Portuguese.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; informal games are common on beaches and fields.
Played in schools and community centers; local tournaments occur in towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cova Figueira.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for cachupa vegetariana, bean and potato dishes, milho frito, and fresh fruit. In larger venues, chefs can adapt meat dishes to plant-based versions; it helps to ask about oil and stock used.