Explore Cape Verde

Car rental in Santo Antão

Santo Antão is the most mountainous and lush island of Cape Verde, a paradise for travellers who love dramatic landscapes and hiking. There is no active commercial airport — the island is reached by ferry from Mindelo (São Vicente) to Porto Novo, a roughly 50-minute crossing. From there a car opens up the highlights: the viewpoint at Cova de Paúl, an extinct volcanic crater turned into terraced farmland; Paúl Valley, a green gorge of banana trees, sugarcane and trapiches where artisan grogue is distilled; the colonial town of Ribeira Grande (Povoação); and Ponta do Sol on the northern tip. The famous old cobblestone road linking Porto Novo to Ribeira Grande over Cova is one of Africa's most spectacular drives, but its hairpin bends and sheer drops demand careful driving. The newer paved southern road is faster and safer, especially for less experienced drivers.