Santo Antão is the northernmost island of the entire archipelago and, after Santiago, the second-largest in terms of area.

Santo Antão is the northernmost island of the entire archipelago and, after Santiago, the second-largest in terms of area.It stretches 43 km in length, from Ponta de Tumba in the northeast to Ponta de Cammarina in the southwest, and 23 km in width, from Ponta das Areias in the northwest. The island is crossed by a mountain range reaching 1,600 meters in altitude, with its highest peak at Tope de Coroa, standing at 1,979 meters.

This unique geographical feature creates distinct microclimates, setting Santo Antão apart from the other Cape Verdean islands.

Unlike most of the archipelago, Santo Antão receives abundant rainfall, allowing for lush vegetation and numerous freshwater springs. Every piece of arable land is maximized, often using terracing techniques for farming.

The only significant flat area is the Caldeira de Cova, an ancient extinct volcanic crater. The landscape is marked by ancient river valleys, while the southeastern region is arid and desert-like, featuring rugged cliffs and small black sand beaches of volcanic origin.

Crossing the island from one coast to the other reveals astonishingly diverse landscapes. Santo Antão is truly a destination not to be missed!

Santo Antão was discovered on January 17, 1462, by navigator Diogo Afonso. It was initially settled by Portuguese colonists, mainly from the Algarve and Alentejo, sent by Infante D. Henrique. Later, freed or already Christianized African slaves were also brought to the island.

From the 16th century onward, settlers from Spain, Italy, France, North America, and Jewish communities also arrived, making the island a cultural melting pot.

It wasn’t until the 19th century that major roads were built to connect the island’s main settlements.

In 1593, during Spanish rule, Santo Antão was granted to Count of Orta, D. Francisco de Mascarenhas, who was given the title Count of Santa Cruz. He founded the town of Santa Cruz, later renamed Ribeira Grande.

A fascinating historical episode involves Dom João de Mascarenhas, the count’s son and Marquis of Gouveia, who, while exiled in England for a crime of passion, mortgaged the island to the English. His desperate attempt to resolve his financial troubles sparked a major diplomatic incident, as the English attempted to claim ownership of the island. The governor of Cape Verde protested, and King João V of Portugal immediately dispatched troops to expel the unwanted occupants and restore Portuguese rule.

In 1886, rebels marched on Ribeira Grande shouting "Viva a República!", in opposition to the Portuguese monarchy. The revolt was quickly suppressed.

Eight years later, in 1894, another conflict erupted between the inhabitants of Ribeira Grande and Paúl over the selection of a representative for the Lisbon Parliament. The dispute led to government intervention, arrests, and legal battles, reportedly bankrupting many of the island’s wealthiest families.

With its spectacular landscapes, lush valleys, and charming villages, Santo Antão is an island that captivates and surprises. Far from mass tourism, it offers an authentic experience, perfect for nature lovers, hikers, and adventurers.

Whether you’re an explorer, a cyclist, or simply a curious traveler, Santo Antão promises unforgettable moments.

Don’t miss the chance to explore this hidden treasure of Cape Verde!