Things To Do
in Picos
Picos, Cabo Verde is a small coastal village perched on a rugged shoreline, where the Atlantic cuddles colorful hillside houses and traditional fishing culture remains strong. The town exudes a laid-back island vibe, with friendly locals, fresh seafood, and panoramic ocean views from sea cliffs. Life revolves around the harbor, market chatter, and sunset walks along the shore.
Expect warm hospitality, striking landscapes, and a rhythm of days shaped by sun, wind, and the sea.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Picos and check into your cozy accommodation, soaking in the stunning views of the lush landscape. Take some time to unwind and adjust to the island's relaxed rhythm. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café while savoring traditional Cabo Verdean pastries.
After lunch, embark on a guided hike through the breathtaking hills surrounding Picos, marveling at the unique flora and fauna. Visit the nearby villages to interact with the locals and gain insights into their daily lives and traditions. Capture the picturesque views with your camera as you explore hidden gems along the trails.
Return to Picos to enjoy a sunset dinner at a rooftop restaurant, where you can relive the day's adventures over delicious local seafood. Participate in an evening cultural performance showcasing Cape Verdean music and dance, bringing the night's ambiance to life. Wind down with a walk along the pristine coastline as the stars begin to twinkle above.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to the charming coastal village of Ribeira Brava. Stroll through its vibrant streets, taking in the colorful houses and local crafts. Engage with the artisans to learn about their work and traditions.
Afterward, spend the afternoon at the picturesque beach, where you can relax, swim or try your hand at paddleboarding. Taste the local cuisine at a beachside eatery, and don’t forget to sample the fresh catch of the day. Explore nearby tide pools to discover unique marine life and enjoy the serenity of the ocean.
As the sun sets, gather for a traditional evening feast at a local family-run restaurant. Share stories and laughter with new friends as you indulge in cachupa, a traditional Cape Verdean dish. End the evening with live music by a local band, dancing under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or small snack | $1-3 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (midrange) | $25-45 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room (per night) | $30-60 |
| 🚖Taxi ride within town | $3-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and unique Creole culture
- Stunning coastline and hiking opportunities
- Limited infrastructure in remote areas
- Seasonal wind and heat can be intense
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Pode me ajudar?" - Can you help me?
- "Você aceita cartão?" - Do you accept credit cards?
- "Eu sou vegetariano(a)" - I am vegetarian
Places to Visit in Picos
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light on fishing boats and pastel-colored houses lining the quay.
Dramatic ocean views with waves crashing against the rocky shoreline.
Vibrant stalls with produce, spices, and local crafts—great for candid street photography.
Ridge-top homes painted in bright colors, with narrow lanes weaving through them.
Food in Picos
Picos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich, slow-cooked corn and bean stew with vegetables and often pork or fish; a quintessential Cape Verdean dish found in many local eateries.
Must-Try!
Skewered grilled meat (often beef) seasoned with garlic and herbs; best enjoyed with potatoes and salad.
Cape Verde’s cane spirit; typically enjoyed as a small shot or mixed with lime. Try it responsibly at local bars.
Corn pastries that appear as sweet or savory snacks at markets and street stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find fresh fish, produce, spices, and bakery items in the morning.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet locals with a polite hello; maintain respectful distance in conversations; modest dress in non-tourist areas.
Ask before photographing people or private spaces; a friendly nod or small tip is appreciated in some cases.
Meals are often shared and social; wait for everyone to be served before starting; keep voices at a moderate level in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Picos
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 5-10% at restaurants; round up taxi fares or leave small change.
Cash in local currency (CVE) is widely used; US dollars and euros accepted at some places. Many hotels and larger establishments accept credit cards; ATMs are available in towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season with long, sunny days; hot in the afternoons and breezy near the coast. Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and seek shade during peak sun hours.
Warm with gradually decreasing humidity; occasional short rain showers. Great for hiking after a brief shower when trails are refreshed.
Milder temperatures, cooler evenings; pleasant for outdoor activities without intense heat. Pack layers for cool nights.
Rising humidity with intermittent rain; landscapes become lush with greenery and flowers, enhancing outdoor outings.
Picos at Night
Hiking in Picos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail along cliff tops offering sea views, dramatic landscapes, and photo opportunities.
Gentle hike into a nearby valley with lush vegetation and vantage points overlooking the coastline.
Airports
How to reach Picos by plane.
Main international gateway on Sal Island, close to Santa Maria; most travelers transfer to Picos by domestic flight or ferry connection.
Located in Praia, Santiago; serves international and domestic flights and is the primary hub for connections to other islands.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly mixed African and Portuguese heritage with strong community ties and music traditions.
A small but present presence of travelers, researchers, and seasonal workers supporting local businesses.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local matches and informal games are common in town squares and beaches.
Diving, snorkeling, and windsurfing along calmer shores and beaches are enjoyed by residents and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Picos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist, especially beans, corn-based dishes, and vegetables; ask for cachupa sem carne and confirm no fish if you’re avoiding seafood.