Plizio Visual Lab
Vineyards of Chã das Caldeiras
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Agriculture
The vineyards of Chã das Caldeiras are located directly within the massive crater of the Pico do Fogo volcano on Fogo Island. This unique viticultural site sits at an elevation of approximately 1,700 meters, offering extraordinary conditions for grape growing due to its ash-rich soils and distinct microclimate. The vines are planted in small pits dug into the black volcanic ash, which helps retain moisture and shields the plants from harsh winds. The region is primarily famous for its 'Vinho do Fogo' (locally known as Chã), produced in red, white, and rosé varieties, as well as sweet dessert wines. Despite the recurring threat of volcanic eruptions, most recently in 2014, the residents consistently return to reclaim their lands and continue their winemaking traditions. Winemaking here serves as a powerful symbol of the local community's resilience against the forces of nature. Visiting the vineyards and the local cooperative has a chance to sample the singular flavors of these volcanic wines at their very source.
- Location: Cape Verde
- Top sights: Fogo Natural Park · Crater Pico de Fogo · Chã das Caldeiras
- Nearby: Cova Figueira (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar–May.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 23 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 23 | 29 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 5 | 13 | 56 | 83 | 47 | 47 | 41 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The vineyards of Chã das Caldeiras at the foot of Pico do Fogo are a unique agricultural area where vines grow directly in the volcanic lava ash. They produce characteristic wines that reflect the harsh, mineral terroir of Cape Verde.
Visiting
The vineyards are generally open to visitors, with winemakers often offering guided tours through the vineyards and cellars. Most wineries welcome guests and offer tastings of local wines.
Where to view it
The best viewpoint is the hiking trail descending from the crater rim of Pico do Fogo, offering a memorable view of the black lava fields and green vines. The viewing terrace of the main winery also provides a fantastic panorama.
Local products
The main local products are wines from the grapes grown in volcanic ash, especially the red 'Fogo' and white 'Chã', which can be bought directly from the winemakers. Grape juice and liqueurs are also offered depending on the season.
Active season
The grape harvest typically occurs between August and October, when the volcanic mountains are filled with intense activity and festivities. This is the best time to experience the vineyards in full harvest and join traditional harvest festivals.
Nearby
Combine the visit with a hike to the summit of Pico do Fogo, the highest mountain in Cape Verde. The nearby town of São Filipe with its colonial architecture and museum is also worth a stop.
Geography
Facts
- Viticulture at 1,700 meters elevation inside a volcanic crater
- Special planting technique using deep pits in volcanic ash
- Produces the famous Cape Verdean 'Chã' wine
- The local cooperative was rebuilt following the 2014 eruption
- Volcanic ash acts as a natural fertilizer and moisture retainer
- The only significant commercial wine-producing region in the country
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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 Vineyards of Chã das Caldeiras (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where are the vineyards located?
Right in the volcanic crater of Chã das Caldeiras on Fogo island.
How does the wine from there taste?
The wine (Manecom) is robust and has a mineral note from the volcanic soil.
Can you do wine tastings?
Yes, in the local Sodade cooperative, you can taste the wines.
Is access safe after an eruption?
Yes, roads are usually made passable quickly, but check current updates.
When is the grape harvest?
The harvest usually begins in July or August.
Vineyards of Chã das Caldeiras: where is it located?
Vineyards of Chã das Caldeiras is located in Cape Verde.
Vineyards of Chã das Caldeiras: what is there to see?
Highlights include Fogo Natural Park, Crater Pico de Fogo, Chã das Caldeiras.
Vineyards of Chã das Caldeiras: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, May.
Vineyards of Chã das Caldeiras: why is it worth visiting?
The vineyards of Chã das Caldeiras are located directly within the massive crater of the Pico do Fogo volcano on Fogo Island.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Africa
More places in Cape Verde →
Nearby cities
Cova Figueira
Cova Figueira is the administrative center of the Santa Catarina do Fogo municipality.
Chã das Caldeiras
Chã das Caldeiras is a unique village located directly inside the crater of Pico do Fogo.
Mosteiros
Mosteiros is a city in the northeast of Fogo, famous for its coffee production.
Porto Rincão
Porto Rincão is an isolated coastal village in the west of Santiago island.
Ribeira da Barca
Ribeira da Barca is a picturesque fishing village on the west coast of Santiago.
Tarrafal
Tarrafal is a city in the north of Santiago island, famous for its white sand beach.
Chão Bom
Chão Bom is a growing town in the Tarrafal municipality, south of the main town.
Porto Mosquito
Porto Mosquito is a small fishing village west of the capital Praia.
Assomada
Assomada is a city in the central highlands of Santiago island and the seat of the Santa Catarina municipality.
More places
Pico do Fogo
The highest mountain in Cape Verde, an active stratovolcano with a massive caldera.
Fogo
An impressive volcanic island whose landscape is dominated by the nearly 3,000-meter-high Pico do Fogo.
Coffee Plantations of Mosteiros
Famous coffee-growing areas on the slopes of the volcano, known for their intense aroma.
Sobrados of São Filipe
Traditional colonial mansions with wooden balconies that characterize the cityscape of São Filipe.
Port of Vale de Cavaleiros
Vale de Cavaleiros is the port of Fogo and the main maritime access point for the island.
Port of Furna
The only port on Brava island, connecting the remote island with the rest of the archipelago.
🗺️
Traditional Goat Farms of Brava
Small agricultural farms on the 'island of flowers', famous for the production of goat cheese.
🗺️
Monte Sobrado
Monte Sobrado rises in the volcanic highlands of Fogo.