How to Plan Your Santiago: Calabaceira Valley Trek & Visit to Cidade Velha Tour in Praia

Planning a tour can be daunting, especially when you are in a new place. But with the right guidance, you can create an unforgettable experience. In this guide, we will take you through the steps you need to take to plan your Santiago: Calabaceira Valley Trek & Visit to Cidade Velha Tour in Praia.

Experience

Our Santiago: Calabaceira Valley Trek & Visit to Cidade Velha Tour offers a unique experience that allows you to: • Walk through dense tropical vegetation in the beautiful Calabaceira Valley
• Visit a local rum distillery at the heart of intact nature rich in local fauna and flora
• Explore all the highlights of Cidade Velha a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Discover the former slave market Nossa Senhora do Rosário church and more
• Choose between a shared group or a private tour

Itinerary

Our tour starts from your accommodation in Praia, where you will be collected and head toward the small village of Calabaceira. Here is a breakdown of the itinerary: • 3-hour hike from the top of the valley with an oasis of vast vegetation emerging in its interior
• Follow a simple and accessible trail for any hiker and explore the green valley famous for both its baobab trees mentioned by Charles Darwin and its use as an escape route for slaves during slavery
• Discover the local fauna and flora
• Have the opportunity to experience the production of a local rum-making distillery
• Get in touch with local farmers and their agricultural fields
• Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site Cidade Velha and discover its wonders such as the former slave market, Nossa Senhora do Rosário church, and more
• Choose between a shared group or private tour

Booking

If you are interested in joining our Santiago: Calabaceira Valley Trek & Visit to Cidade Velha Tour, you can book here: book the tour here. You can choose between a shared group or a private tour according to your preferences.

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Our Santiago: Calabaceira Valley Trek & Visit to Cidade Velha Tour is an excellent opportunity to discover the hidden gems of Praia. Make sure to book in advance and choose between a shared group or private tour to make the most of your experience. We hope you found this guide helpful and that you will have an unforgettable time on your tour.

Praia: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Are you searching for an African city that’s full of life, history and culture? Look no further than Praia, the capital of Cape Verde. This vibrant city is situated on the southern coast of Santiago island, and is a dream destination for those seeking a mixture of vibrant city life and beach retreats. In this article, we aim to answer all the questions you may have before visiting Praia.

1. Where is Praia located?

Praia is the capital city of Cape Verde, a group of islands off the west coast of Africa. It’s located on the southern coast of the island of Santiago, which is the largest of the Cape Verdean islands.

2. What is the currency used in Praia?

The currency used in Praia is the Cape Verdean escudo. It’s advisable to exchange your currency before arriving in Praia as ATMs and exchange offices are limited.

3. What language is spoken in Praia?

The official language of Cape Verde is Portuguese, which is spoken by most of the population. However, Cape Verdean Creole is the most widely spoken language in Praia and throughout the country.

4. What is the weather like in Praia?

Praia has a tropical climate with warm temperatures all year round. The best time to visit Praia is from November to June when the city is less humid and has more sun.

5. How can I get to Praia?

The most common way to get to Praia is by air as it has its own international airport. You can also get to Praia by sea via the port, which is serviced by various cruise lines.

6. What are the top tourist attractions in Praia?

Praia is a city steeped in history and culture, with a wide range of attractions to suit all tastes. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Praia:

a. Praia de Santa Maria

Praia de Santa Maria is one of the city’s most popular beaches. With crystal-clear waters and sandy shores, it’s the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun.

b. The Presidential Palace

This impressive building is home to the Cape Verdean president and has been beautifully restored to reflect its colonial past.

c. The National Museum

Located in the historic Cidade Velha, the National Museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of Cape Verde.

d. Tarrafal Camp

Tarrafal Camp is a former concentration camp that was used by the Portuguese colonial government to imprison political prisoners. Today, it serves as a museum and memorial to the victims of the camp.

e. Assomada Market

Assomada Market is a vibrant marketplace located in the centre of the city. Here you can find a range of local produce, souvenirs and artisanal crafts.

7. What is the local cuisine like in Praia?

Cape Verdean cuisine is a fusion of Portuguese, African and Brazilian influences. Some of the most popular dishes in Praia include cachupa (a stew made from beans and corn) and xerem (a porridge made from cornmeal).

8. What are some tips for staying safe in Praia?

Praia is generally a safe city to visit, but it’s advisable to take some basic precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, and be aware of your surroundings when using public transport.

9. What are some popular day trips from Praia?

Praia is located on the largest of the Cape Verdean islands and is the perfect base for exploring the rest of the island. Some popular day trips from Praia include:

a. Cidade Velha

Cidade Velha is a historic town located just 15 km from Praia. Here you can explore the colonial architecture and visit the National Museum.

b. São Domingos

São Domingos is a village located in the heart of Santiago island. Here you can take a scenic hike to the top of Pico da Antónia, the highest point on the island.

c. Rui Vaz

Rui Vaz is a small fishing village located 70 km from Praia. It’s known for its beautiful beaches and is the ideal place for a day trip from the city.

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Praia is a city full of life, history and culture that’s just waiting to be explored. With its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture and fascinating history, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Cape Verde. We hope this guide has answered all your questions and inspired you to visit this beautiful city soon.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Praia

Praia is the capital city of Cape Verde, a small island country off the west coast of Africa. It’s a vibrant and bustling city with a rich history and culture. If you’re planning a trip to Praia, then you’re in for a treat. There are plenty of things to see and do in the city, and we’ve compiled a list to help you make the most of your time there.

1. Visit the historic sites

Praia has a rich history, and there are plenty of historic sites to visit. One of the most popular is Forte Real de São Filipe, a 16th-century fort that was once used to protect the city from pirates. It’s situated on a hill overlooking the city and provides stunning views of the surrounding area. Another must-see historic site is the Presidential Palace, which is the official residence of the President of Cape Verde. It was built in the 1800s and has been beautifully preserved. You can take a guided tour of the palace to learn more about its history and see some of its stunning architecture.

2. Relax on the Beaches

Praia is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Cape Verde. One of the most popular is Praia de Santa Maria, which is famous for its crystal-clear waters and soft white sand. It’s the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. Another popular beach is Praia de Quebra Canela, which is located near the city center. It’s a great spot for surfing and windsurfing, and there are plenty of cool bars and restaurants nearby where you can grab a bite to eat.

3. Explore the Local Markets

If you want to experience the local culture, then you need to head to one of the local markets. The Sucupira Market is one of the largest and most popular in the city. Here you can find everything from fresh produce and seafood to souvenirs and handmade crafts. Another popular market is the Avenida Cidade de Lisboa market. It’s a great place to find locally made textiles, jewelry, and other unique items. You can also sample traditional Cape Verdean food such as cachupa, a hearty stew made with beans, vegetables, and meat or fish.

4. Best Places to Eat in Praia

If you’re a foodie, then you need to check out some of the best restaurants in Praia. The city has a thriving food scene with plenty of different cuisines to choose from. One of the most popular restaurants is Casa da Morna, which serves traditional Cape Verdean food like cachupa and grilled fish. For something a bit more international, check out Lemon Tree, which serves a mix of European and Cape Verdean dishes.

5. Experience the Nightlife

Praia has a thriving nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. One of the most popular is the Havana Cafe, which is a great place to dance the night away to some live music. Another popular spot is Chez Loutcha, which has a great atmosphere and serves some delicious cocktails.

6. Go Hiking in the Surrounding Mountains

If you’re a nature lover, then you need to check out the surrounding mountains. One of the best places to hike is Serra Malagueta, which is a mountain range located about an hour’s drive outside of the city. The hikes here are challenging but rewarding, and the views from the top are breathtaking.

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Praia is a vibrant and exciting city with plenty to offer tourists. From historic sites and beautiful beaches to local markets and tasty restaurants, there’s something for everyone in this city. So if you’re planning a trip to Cape Verde, be sure to spend some time in Praia and experience all that it has to offer.