Santiago Island: Trek from Serra Malagueta to Rabelados Community
Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore Serra Malagueta Natural Park at an altitude of 1,064 meters. Enjoy beautiful landscapes between mountains and valleys, and visit the Rabelados, the community that preserves Cape Verde's oldest customs.
Available options
Private Trek
Private <br/>Pickup included
Shared Group Trek
Pickup included
What's included
Picnic (soft juice + sandwich + fruit)
Pickup and drop-off at your accommodation in Praia
Liability insurance
Tour Guide
Transportation
Detailed itinerary
1
Departing from Praia towards the interior of the island, make your first stop at Serra Malagueta.
2
Meet your local tour guide and get ready to discover the main sights and hidden gems of the green valley of Principal.
Walk downhill with beautiful scenery and learn about the local fauna and flora from your local expert.
Arrive at the first settlements, with small groups of traditional houses strewn across the hillsides of the canyon, get in touch with the locals and experience the rural lifestyle.
Continue between agricultural fields of coconut palms, banana trees, tamarind, mango, sugar cane and more.
Arrive at the locality of Mato Dento and feel the warmth and the Morabeza of its welcoming people.
Please note that the €2 per person to the park entrance is not included.
3
The tour concludes with drop-off at your accommodation in Praia.
What's not included
Entrance fee (€2 to Serra Malagueta Natural Park)
Available languages
Guide guide
PT
EN
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
We strongly advise wearing hiking pants, especially from August to November. Additionally, bring decent footwear, hat, sunscreen, walking stick and water
Suitable for walkers with some fitness and no health problems
Activity for travelers under 16 years old.
Route File: Walking Distance: +/- 11, 5 km // Total Walking Duration: +/- 4 hours // Degree of difficulty: Difficult Elevation gain: +/- 265m Elevation loss: -/+ 1000 m Max Elevation: +/- 1045m // Min Elevation: +/- 120m // Trail type: One Way // Path quality: flat surface and safe.
About Praia
Praia, the capital of Cape Verde, is a vibrant coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and warm hospitality. It's a unique blend of African and Portuguese influences, offering a mix of modern amenities and traditional charm.
Top Attractions
Praia City Hall (Câmara Municipal da Praia)
A historic building with colonial architecture, serving as the city's administrative center.
Historical
30 minutes
Free
Plaza Alexandre Albuquerque
A central square with historic buildings, a statue of Alexandre Albuquerque, and a lively atmosphere.
Historical
30 minutes
Free
Praia Beach (Praia de Gamboa)
A popular beach with golden sand and clear waters, ideal for relaxation and water sports.
Beach
Half day
Free
Museu da Tabanka
A museum dedicated to the Tabanka tradition, a unique cultural expression of Cape Verde.
Museum
1 hour
Budget
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cachupa
A traditional stew made with corn, beans, and various meats or fish.
Main Course
Vegetarian versions available
Pastel de Milho
Corn-based pastry filled with various ingredients like meat, fish, or cheese.
Snack
Vegetarian options available
Canja
A comforting soup made with chicken, rice, and vegetables.
Soup
Can be made vegetarian
Grogue
A traditional Cape Verdean rum made from sugarcane.
Drink
Alcoholic
Popular Activities
Hiking in Serra Malagueta
Water sports at Praia Beach
Sunbathing at Praia Beach
Picnicking in Parque da Várzea
Visiting Museu da Tabanka
Exploring Cidade Velha
Swimming
Snorkeling
Best Time to Visit
November to July
This is the dry season with sunny weather and minimal rainfall, ideal for beach activities and sightseeing.
20-30°C
68-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Portuguese
- Widely spoken: Cape Verdean Creole
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE)
Time Zone
GMT-1
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Praia is generally safe, but petty crime can occur. Exercise usual precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis
Getting there
By air
- Nelson Mandela International Airport • 3 km from city center
By bus
Praia Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and widely used, but can be crowded. Routes cover most of the city and nearby areas.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Boltax
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Plateau
Achada Santo António
Várzea
Day trips
Cidade Velha
15 km • Half day
A UNESCO World Heritage site with historic buildings, churches, and a rich colonial history.
Tarrafal
30 km • Full day
A beautiful beach town with stunning beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.
Serra Malagueta
10 km • Half day
A scenic mountain area with hiking trails and panoramic views of Praia.
Festivals
Carnaval de Praia • February or March (dates vary)
Festival de Música da Praia • July
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic phrases in Portuguese or Cape Verdean Creole
- Try local dishes like Cachupa and Pastel de Milho
- Visit local markets for authentic shopping experiences
- Explore the city on foot to discover hidden gems
- Respect local customs and traditions for a more immersive experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
