Fogo - The Volcanic Island

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Fogo rates second only to Santa Antao as a hiking destination, with many routes available, several of which include parts of the volcano.

The Fogo volcano, a major tourist attraction reaching a height of 2829 metres, is the highest point in the Archipelago and should not be missed by any visitor.

Chã das Caldeiras, situated inside a huge and much larger crater of the still active volcano, is a village of some 600 souls that provides the visitor with unforgettable memories of varied colour tones, contrasting black lava landscapes with the greens of agricultural and vineyard plantations (which produce the famous Fogo wine). The lava flows of 1951 and April 1995 are still very evident and cut dramatic black swathes through the cultivated uplands. Walks from Chã das Caldeiras to the smaller crater (1985) up shifting lava ash take about 2 hours, whilst for those wishing to experience the higher, larger crater (1951) must budget 3 hours to climb and 1 hour to "slide" down.

In the Northeast of the Island are woods of Eucalyptus and cool valleys in which grow coffee and vines; the remainder of the Island is fertile and green or dun coloured according to season.

The main town of São Filipe is large and attractive with very Portuguese squares, cobbled streets and pastel shaded buildings many covered with bougainvillaea and other greenery with views of neighbouring Brava.

Other points of interest on the Island are:

1. Hike one or more of the 5  suggested routes (details available), many of which include parts of the volcano.

2. Take time to appreciate Chã das Caldeiras, the agriculture, the attempts to develop an ecology and the people, many of whom have blue eyes and blond hair and are said to be descendants of the prolific Duc de Montrand, a Frenchman who settle on Fogo in 1872 and introduced the first vines. He also laid the road from Sao Felipe to the crater, sank wells and was involved in introducing medicinal herbs.

3. Observe the “Sobrado” architecture in Sao Filepe. Thes colonial houses for the wealthy were two storied and built around a cool shady courtyard off which were the staff quarters and working rooms. The first floor housed the family with a balcony facing onto the courtyard on 3 sides and a delicately carved balcony overlooking the street at the front.

Car, jeep and beach buggy hire is readily available and it is well worth while taking a vehicle for a day’s exploration.

Our recommended Restaurants in Sao Filipe

Tropical Club – good basic food served outside.

Le Bistro. Crowded restaurant with terrace with great views. Mediterranean cuisine.

Bar Restaurante Leila – good food in basement.

Restaurant in Chã das Caldeiras

Pousada Pedra Brabo (they also have simple rooms)