Explore Cape Verde

Car Rental in São Nicolau

São Nicolau is one of Cape Verde's least-visited islands, and that is exactly what makes it special — rural authenticity, mountainous landscapes and almost no mass tourism. The capital, Ribeira Brava, is a colonial town tucked into a deep valley, with traditional architecture and one of the archipelago's oldest literary traditions (it was home to the historic Seminário-Liceu). The Monte Gordo Natural Park, peaking at 1312m, is the island's high point and offers trails through high-altitude woodland with unique endemic plants. On the western coast, the fishing village of Tarrafal de São Nicolau (not to be confused with Santiago's Tarrafal) features black volcanic sand, excellent fishing and a tradition of therapeutic sand bathing. Renting a car is the natural way to get around: distances are short but the roads wind through mountains, and public transport is scarce. The Ribeira Brava → Tarrafal drive over the mountains is one of the prettiest in the country.