Fogo

Cape Verde, Africa

Fogo, a stunning volcanic island in Cape Verde, is famous for its dramatic landscapes, including the majestic Pico do Fogo, the highest point in the archipelago. Adventurers and nature lovers flock here for hiking trails that lead to the volcano's summit and to explore the lush, fertile valley of Chã das Caldeiras. The island boasts a rich cultural heritage with traditional villages, unique local wines, and vibrant festivals, making it a captivating destination for those seeking both adventure and culture.

Quick facts

Target stay

5-7 days

Type

Island

Vibe

Active

Airport

Francisco Mendes

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Fogo

1

Est. 6 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Hike Pico do Fogo

Climb the highest peak in Cape Verde for stunning views.

No booking required
2

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Chã das Caldeiras

Visit the volcanic crater and local wine producers.

No booking required
3

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit São Filipe

Discover the charming colonial town and vibrant culture.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at Praia de Fogo

Enjoy stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Taste local cuisine

Savor traditional dishes like cachupa and seafood.

No booking required
6

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Volcanic Museum

Learn about Fogo's volcanic history and geology.

No booking required
7

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Hike to the crater rim

Experience breathtaking views from the crater's edge.

No booking required
8

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore local markets

Shop for crafts, spices, and local produce.

No booking required
9

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend a cultural festival

Experience vibrant local festivals with music and dance.

No booking required
10

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the black sand beaches

Relax on unique black sand beaches of Fogo.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~5-10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

No data

LGBTQ+ safety score

-4 (#84 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Cabo Verde Escudo

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Portuguese

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Cachupa

Hearty stew of corn and beans. (National dish)

Pastel

Fried pastry filled with fish or meat.

Lagostada

Grilled lobster served with sauce.

Bolo de Caco

VE

Traditional garlic bread from Cape Verde.

Gufong

VE

Sweet potato and corn pudding dessert.

Phrases to learn

English

Portuguese

Hello

Olá

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Sim / Nao

(Seem / Nowm)

Thank you

Obrigado

(Oh-bree-gah-doh)

Excuse me

Desculpe

(Deh-skul-peh)

How much?

Quanto?

(Kwan-too)