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Pico do Fogo
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Pico do Fogo is an active stratovolcano on the island of Fogo, standing at 2829 meters as the highest point in Cape Verde and the Macaronesian region south of the Canaries. It rises from within a massive, nine-kilometer-wide caldera known as Chã das Caldeiras. The main cone was formed by volcanic activity following the collapse of the original volcano, with slopes reaching inclinations of up to 45 degrees. Geologically, it is highly active, with numerous eruptions recorded in historical times, the most recent spanning from late 2014 to early 2015. The surrounding terrain is a dramatic display of fresh lava flows and volcanic ash, yet it supports unique high-altitude agriculture. Climbing to the summit is recognized as one of the most challenging and rewarding treks in the Central Atlantic, offering panoramic views of the entire archipelago.
- Location: Cape Verde
- Top sights: Crater Pico de Fogo · Espigão · Fogo Natural Park
- 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
Getting there
Visitors generally access this massive active stratovolcano by driving directly into the Chã das Caldeiras, the vast volcanic crater, from where the imposing black cone rises dramatically into the sky.
Best season
Hiking is possible year-round, but the cooler months between November and April are significantly more comfortable for ascending the entirely exposed, heavily sun-baked slopes of the massive volcano.
Terrain & paths
The tough ascent involves slogging up incredibly steep, loose volcanic ash and shifting scree, which is physically exhausting, while the descent often features a rapid, sliding run down the deep ash fields.
What to bring
Closed, high-top hiking boots are strictly crucial to keep the sharp volcanic ash out, along with copious amounts of drinking water, high-factor sunscreen, and a windbreaker for the fiercely windy summit.
Parking
Rental vehicles can be safely parked at the friendly guesthouses or designated areas within the Chã das Caldeiras village, located conveniently right at the very base of the main volcanic cone.
Safety
The loose, shifting scree can easily cause painful falls, and the total lack of natural shade presents a severe risk of heat exhaustion; employing a local guide from the caldera village is highly recommended.
Time needed
The intensely challenging climb to the active summit and the thrilling descent back to the caldera floor typically take around four to six hours in total for a moderately fit and well-prepared hiker.
Geography
Facts
- Highest peak in Cape Verde (2829m)
- Active stratovolcano within a 9km-wide caldera
- Most recent eruption occurred in 2014-2015
- Conal slopes reach an inclination of 45 degrees
- The caldera floor sits at 1700m above sea level
- Primary destination for mountaineering in the region
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 Pico do Fogo (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How high is Pico do Fogo?
At 2,829 meters, it is the highest peak in Cape Verde.
Is the climb difficult?
Yes, it is strenuous and requires good fitness and sure-footedness on loose volcanic rock.
Is a guide mandatory?
Yes, a local guide is mandatory for safety reasons for the ascent to the summit.
How long does the hike take?
The ascent and descent take a total of about 4 to 6 hours from Chã das Caldeiras.
When is the best time to start?
Very early in the morning (around 6 AM) to avoid the midday heat on the mountain.
Pico do Fogo: where is it located?
Pico do Fogo is located in Cape Verde.
Pico do Fogo: what is there to see?
Highlights include Crater Pico de Fogo, Espigão, Fogo Natural Park.
Pico do Fogo: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, May.
Pico do Fogo: why is it worth visiting?
Pico do Fogo is an active stratovolcano on the island of Fogo, standing at 2829 meters as the highest point in Cape Verde and the Macaronesian region south of the Canaries.
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Nearby cities
São Filipe
São Filipe is the largest city on Fogo, known for its well-preserved colonial architecture.
Chã das Caldeiras
Chã das Caldeiras is a unique village located directly inside the crater of Pico do Fogo.
Cova Figueira
Cova Figueira is the administrative center of the Santa Catarina do Fogo municipality.
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.
History & landmarks
More places
Bordeira do Fogo
Bordeira do Fogo is the great crater rim that frames Pico do Fogo.
Fogo
An impressive volcanic island whose landscape is dominated by the nearly 3,000-meter-high Pico do Fogo.
Sobrados of São Filipe
Traditional colonial mansions with wooden balconies that characterize the cityscape of São Filipe.
Town Hall of São Filipe
An elegant historic building in the center of São Filipe on Fogo island.
House of Memory (Fogo)
A museum in a restored sobrado that documents the history and culture of Fogo island.
Port of Vale de Cavaleiros
Vale de Cavaleiros is the port of Fogo and the main maritime access point for the island.
Vineyards of Chã das Caldeiras
Unique vineyards growing directly in the lava ash at the foot of Pico do Fogo.
Coffee Plantations of Mosteiros
Famous coffee-growing areas on the slopes of the volcano, known for their intense aroma.