Picos
,Picos is a small village located on the island of Santo Antão in Cabo Verde. It is known for its stunning mountainous landscape and lush green valleys. The village offers opportunities for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the area.
Visitors can also experience the local culture and hospitality through homestays and traditional meals.
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado/a" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Desculpa" - Sorry
- "Tudu bem?" - Everything good?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $50
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Picos' Natural Wonders
morning
:Start your day with a scenic hike through the stunning landscapes of Picos. Discover unique flora and fauna along the trails.
afternoon
:Have lunch at a local eatery and try traditional Cabo Verdean dishes. Spend the afternoon visiting a nearby waterfall for a refreshing swim.
evening
:Wrap up your day by watching the sunset at the beach. Enjoy a beachside dinner with fresh seafood and local music.
Beach Bliss Day
morning
:Relax at Praia de Picos, soaking up the sun on the beautiful sand. Enjoy a morning swim in the crystal-clear waters.
afternoon
:After lunch, engage in water sports like snorkeling or paddleboarding. Explore the vibrant marine life just off the coast.
evening
:Enjoy a beach bonfire while sipping on local rum. Share stories with fellow travelers under the stars.
Highlights
Good
- Stunning natural landscapes including volcanic peaks and beautiful beaches
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant local traditions
- Pleasant climate year-round, making it a great destination for outdoor activities
- Less commercialized compared to other tourist destinations, offering a unique experience
- Opportunities for hiking, diving, and exploring unique wildlife
Bad
- Limited infrastructure and facilities in some areas
- Internet connectivity can be slow and unreliable
- Higher transportation costs due to its remote location
- Limited healthcare services compared to larger cities or countries
- Risk of natural events such as volcanic eruptions, though rare
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking
Explore the scenic trails of Picos, offering breathtaking views of the islands' landscapes, valleys, and coastlines.
Bird Watching
Observe diverse bird species in their natural habitat, including native and migratory birds unique to the region.
Snorkeling and Diving
Discover the vibrant underwater ecosystem around Cabo Verde, with coral reefs and a variety of marine life.
Cultural Tours
Engage with local communities and learn about the culture, traditions, and history of Cabo Verde through guided tours.
Beach Activities
Relax on the beautiful beaches, engage in beach sports, or enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters.
Surfing
Ride the waves at popular surf spots around Cabo Verde, suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers.
Eco-Tours
Participate in eco-friendly tours to appreciate the natural beauty of the islands while promoting sustainability.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Picos with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Pico do Fogo
The highest peak in Cape Verde, Pico do Fogo offers breathtaking views of the volcanic landscape and the surrounding islands. Sunrise and sunset photos from the summit are particularly stunning.
Chã das Caldeiras
Located at the base of Pico do Fogo, this area provides unique landscapes with vineyards and volcanic craters, perfect for capturing the local culture and dramatic scenery.
Praia de Chaves
A pristine beach on the island of Boa Vista, known for its turquoise waters and expansive sandy shores, ideal for sunset photography and beachscapes.
Miradouro da Ribeira Grande
This viewpoint offers panoramic views of the Ribeira Grande valley and surrounding mountains, making it a perfect spot for landscape photography.
Salinas de Pedra de Lume
Located in an abandoned volcanic crater, the salt flats create striking contrasts of colors and textures, providing unique photo opportunities.
Tarrafal Beach
Known for its palm-lined shores and clear blue waters, Tarrafal Beach is ideal for capturing vibrant coastal scenes, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
Cidade Velha
This UNESCO World Heritage site features historic architecture and dramatic cliffs, offering great backdrops for photos reflecting the rich history of Cape Verde.
Ponta do Sol
Famous for its stunning coastal views and dramatic cliffs, Ponta do Sol is a top destination for capturing the beauty of the Atlantic.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cachupa
A traditional stew made with maize, beans, and a variety of meats or fish. It's a staple dish in Cabo Verdean homes and can be found at local restaurants and street food stalls.
Must-Try!
Lagosta Grelhada
Grilled lobster, often served with a side of rice and local vegetables. It's a luxurious and flavorful dish that can be savored at seaside restaurants in Picos.
Pastel com Ovos
A sweet and flaky pastry filled with custard, a popular dessert enjoyed in cafes and bakeries across Picos.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Picos better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Mercado Municipal de Picos
The central market in Picos is a bustling hub of local produce, spices, and freshly caught fish. Visitors can sample grilled skewers of fish, local fruits, and homemade snacks from the market stalls.
Street Food Along Rua Banana
Rua Banana is known for its vibrant street food scene. Wander the colorful streets to discover vendors selling grilled meats, fresh coconuts, and traditional sweets.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greeting Etiquette
In Cabo Verde, a friendly greeting is important. People often greet each other with a handshake followed by a light hug or kiss on the cheek, especially among close friends and family. Always greet everyone in a group when entering a space.
Respect for Elders
Showing respect for elders is a significant cultural norm in Cabo Verde. It is customary to address older individuals with titles of respect and to listen to their advice or opinions with reverence. This respect is expected in both family settings and public interactions.
Dress Appropriately
While Cabo Verde has a relaxed atmosphere, it is best to dress modestly when visiting local communities or attending events. Beach attire is appropriate at the beach; however, casual yet respectful clothing is encouraged in villages and during cultural gatherings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Picos with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Picos, Cabo Verde, tipping is generally appreciated, especially in the service industry. While not obligatory, a tip of around 10% is common in restaurants if service is not included in the bill. It's also customary to round up the fare for taxi drivers or to leave small change for hotel staff and guides.
Payment
Payment methods in Picos often involve cash, as credit and debit cards may not be widely accepted, especially in smaller establishments. The local currency is the Cape Verdean escudo (CVE). Visitors are encouraged to carry cash for everyday transactions, and ATMs are available in larger towns. Additionally, some businesses may accept euros as a form of payment.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Picos.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Winter (December to February)
Winter is one of the best times to visit the Picos in Cabo Verde due to its pleasant temperatures averaging between 20-25°C (68-77°F). This season typically has little rainfall and is ideal for hiking and outdoor activities. Expect clear skies and cooler evenings.
Spring (March to May)
Spring offers warm temperatures and is generally dry, making it another excellent time for outdoor adventures. Daytime temperatures can reach up to 28°C (82°F). Wildflowers start to bloom, adding to the scenic beauty of the Picos. It's perfect for trekking and exploring the natural landscapes.
Summer (June to August)
Summer can be hot, with temperatures climbing above 30°C (86°F). This is the peak tourist season, attracting visitors looking for beach activities and vibrant local culture. Be prepared for occasional rainfall, particularly in August, but still enjoy plenty of sunshine.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn sees a gradual cooling of temperatures, averaging around 25°C (77°F). This season is less crowded and offers a more tranquil experience. September can still be warm, but by November, conditions are perfect for hiking and enjoying the natural beauty, as the landscapes turn lush after the summer rains.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Pico do Fogo
The highest peak in Cabo Verde, offering stunning views and challenging hiking trails. The hike to the summit takes around 5-6 hours round trip.
Monte Verde
Located on the island of Santo Antão, Monte Verde provides breathtaking landscapes and diverse flora. The hike is moderate and can be completed in approximately 3-4 hours.
Rota da Fajã
This scenic trail on Santo Antão is known for its rugged terrain and beautiful natural scenery along the coast. The hike typically takes 2-3 hours.
Cova - Paúl - Ribeira da Torre
This trail offers a mix of lush valleys and dramatic cliffs, showcasing the island's diverse ecosystems. The hike usually takes about 4-5 hours.
Fajã dos Figuereiros
A hidden gem with an easy hiking trail that leads through terraced fields and scenic views of the ocean. It can be completed in about 2 hours.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Picos through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Picos by plane.
Amílcar Cabral International Airport (SID)
Located on Sal Island, this is the main international airport serving Cabo Verde, offering various flights to Europe and America.
Nelson Mandela International Airport (RAI)
Situated in Praia, the capital of Cabo Verde, this airport serves as a hub for flights between the islands and international destinations.
Cesária Évora Airport (VXE)
Located on São Vicente Island, this airport offers international flights and is named after the famous Cape Verdean singer, Cesária Évora.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Creole
The predominant ethnic and cultural group in Cabo Verde, with roots from African, Portuguese, and other immigrant populations.
African Descendants
Groups descended from various African ethnicities due to historical migrations, slavery, and trade.
Portuguese Descendants
Individuals of Portuguese ancestry, stemming from the colonial history of Cabo Verde.
Mixed Heritage
People with mixed ancestry, blending African, Portuguese, and other ethnic backgrounds.
The Soul of Picos
Discover the essence of Picos through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Picos and throughout Cabo Verde, with many local teams and a strong community following.
Basketball
Basketball is also widely played and enjoyed in Picos, with local leagues and a growing interest in both playing and watching the sport.
Volleyball
Volleyball is popular in Picos, with many recreational leagues and local tournaments that engage the community.
Athletics
Track and field events, including running and jumping, are common in Picos, with local athletes participating in competitions.
Surfing
Given Cabo Verde's natural coastline, surfing has become increasingly popular, attracting both locals and visitors to the waves.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While traditional Cabo Verdean cuisine heavily features seafood and meat, many restaurants in Picos offer vegetarian and vegan dishes centered around locally sourced fruits, vegetables, and grains.
Gluten-Free Options
Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy dishes like grilled fish, tropical salads, and rice-based meals, as well as communicate their dietary needs at accommodating restaurants and street food stalls.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Picos with these cultural adventures.
