Explore Cape Verde

Car rental in Fogo

Fogo is Cape Verde's volcano island, dominated by the towering Pico do Fogo at 2829 metres and still active — its last eruption was in 2014/2015. Renting a car in Fogo is essentially mandatory if you want to reach Chã das Caldeiras, the village set inside the volcano's caldera, where the famous Manecon wine is produced from vines planted in black volcanic soil, alongside one of Cape Verde's best goat cheeses. The capital, São Filipe, charms visitors with its 19th-century Portuguese colonial townhouses, views over Brava island, and black sand beaches such as Praia da Salina. The main road climbing from the coast up to Chã is paved and in good condition but features tight curves and steep gradients — a vehicle with a decent engine makes a real difference. For volcanic hiking trails, a local guide is recommended. Most visitors spend 2 to 3 days on the island.