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Monte Fontainhas

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Mountain
—°3
Monte Fontainhas (Cape Verde)

Weather…

Monte Fontainhas stands as the highest peak on Brava Island in Cape Verde, reaching an elevation of 976 meters above sea level. This volcanic mountain dominates the landscape of the smallest inhabited island in the archipelago and is frequently shrouded in dense trade wind clouds. These climatic conditions foster a moist microclimate, making the mountain's surroundings significantly greener and more fertile than most other regions in Cape Verde. The area supports various agricultural activities, including the cultivation of coffee, citrus fruits, and maize on terraced slopes. Geologically, the mountain is composed primarily of phonolite and other volcanic rocks, surrounded by deep valleys and steep ridges carved by erosion. Hiking trails leading from the town of Nova Sintra offer expansive views of the nearby islands of Fogo and Santiago when the mist clears. For the local community, the mountain is of immense importance as a natural water reservoir, as the persistent fog condenses on the slopes to feed the island's springs.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Mar–May.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C232222222324252627272624
Rain mm232911865135683474741

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
Reaching this green mountain peak generally involves navigating unpaved local routes. Visitors usually drive to the closest base and hike from there.
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Best season
The most favorable time to explore the area is typically during the cooler, drier months. This period has clearer skies and much safer pathways.
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Terrain & paths
The surrounding landscape is characterized by rugged, uneven paths and rocky inclines. Hikers should be prepared for a physically demanding terrain.
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What to bring
Sturdy, closed-toe hiking boots with excellent grip are absolutely essential here. It is also vital to carry plenty of drinking water and sun block.
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Parking
Formal parking areas are rarely found at the immediate start of the hiking routes. Most visitors safely leave their vehicles in the nearest village.
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Safety
Weather conditions in this region can change rapidly and without much warning. It is highly advised to stick to visible paths and inform companions.
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Time needed
A complete visit usually requires at least a full half-day of dedicated time. Many travelers plan for a longer stay to truly appreciate the views.

Geography

Coordinates
14.86000, -24.70000

Facts

  • Highest elevation on Brava Island at 976 meters.
  • Geologically composed of volcanic phonolite rocks.
  • Provides views of the active Pico do Fogo volcano.
  • The moist microclimate supports coffee and citrus farming.
  • Frequently covered in thick clouds due to trade winds.
  • Acts as a primary water source for the island's springs.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Nova SintraNova Sintra<1 km · EExplore →
BravaBrava2 km · SEExplore →
Port of FurnaPort of Furna4 km · NEExplore →
Fajã d'ÁguaFajã d'Água6 km · SExplore →
Port of Vale de CavaleirosPort of Vale de Cavaleiros22 km · NExplore →
House of Memory (Fogo)House of Memory (Fogo)23 km · NExplore →
FogoFogo36 km · NExplore →
Bordeira do FogoBordeira do Fogo37 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Monte Fontainhas (3)

Miradouro de Mato Grande

Viewpoint on a hill above Monte Fontainhas, overlooking the mountain landscape and valley.

Miradouro de Cutelo Mentira

Viewpoint on the slope of Cutelo Mentira, offering a wide view of the island and coast.

Miradouro Mato Grande

Viewpoint near Monte Fontainhas, with a panorama of green hills and the sea.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is Monte Fontainhas the highest point of Brava?
Yes, at 976 meters, it is the highest peak on the island.
What is the vegetation like at the summit?
Very green and often shrouded in clouds, covered with ferns and mosses.
Are there marked hiking trails?
There are old donkey paths leading to the summit, but they are not officially marked.
Can you see São Filipe (Fogo) from there?
Yes, on clear days you have a fantastic view of the neighboring volcano Fogo.
Is an ascent possible for children?
For older children experienced in hiking, yes; the path is partly steep and slippery.
Monte Fontainhas: where is it located?
Monte Fontainhas is located in Cape Verde.
Monte Fontainhas: what is there to see?
Highlights include Miradouro de Mato Grande, Miradouro de Cutelo Mentira, Miradouro Mato Grande.
Monte Fontainhas: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, May.
Monte Fontainhas: why is it worth visiting?
Monte Fontainhas stands as the highest peak on Brava Island in Cape Verde, reaching an elevation of 976 meters above sea level.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nearby cities

Nova Sintra — Monte Fontainhas (Cape Verde)
Nova Sintra
Nova Sintra is the main town of Brava island and is considered one of the most beautiful towns in Cape Verde.
Cova Figueira — Monte Fontainhas (Cape Verde)
Cova Figueira
Cova Figueira is the administrative center of the Santa Catarina do Fogo municipality.
Mosteiros — Monte Fontainhas (Cape Verde)
Mosteiros
Mosteiros is a city in the northeast of Fogo, famous for its coffee production.

More places

Church of Saint John the Baptist — Monte Fontainhas (Cape Verde)
Church of Saint John the Baptist
The main church of the island of Brava, located in the picturesque Vila Nova Sintra.
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Traditional Goat Farms of Brava
Small agricultural farms on the 'island of flowers', famous for the production of goat cheese.
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Monte Sobrado
Monte Sobrado rises in the volcanic highlands of Fogo.
Brava — Monte Fontainhas (Cape Verde)
Brava
The smallest inhabited island, known for its lush flora and steep cliffs.
Port of Furna — Monte Fontainhas (Cape Verde)
Port of Furna
The only port on Brava island, connecting the remote island with the rest of the archipelago.
Fajã d&#39;Água — Monte Fontainhas (Cape Verde)
Fajã d'Água
A beautiful coastal location on Brava with natural lava pools for swimming.
Port of Vale de Cavaleiros — Monte Fontainhas (Cape Verde)
Port of Vale de Cavaleiros
Vale de Cavaleiros is the port of Fogo and the main maritime access point for the island.
House of Memory (Fogo) — Monte Fontainhas (Cape Verde)
House of Memory (Fogo)
A museum in a restored sobrado that documents the history and culture of Fogo island.