Expedition Island Park | Rock Springs

Monte Trigo Road is a significant transportation route located in Porto Novo City, Santo Antão Island, Cabo Verde. It connects the city to the island's interior and offers access to specific natural and historical points of interest.

Visual Characteristics

The road itself is primarily an unpaved track, varying in width from 3 to 5 meters. It traverses a rugged, mountainous terrain characterized by dark volcanic rock formations and sparse, drought-resistant vegetation. The landscape features steep inclines and sharp turns, with elevations reaching over 1000 meters above sea level. Views consist of deep ravines, terraced agricultural plots, and distant ocean panoramas.

Location & Access Logistics

Monte Trigo Road begins at the eastern edge of Porto Novo City, approximately 2 kilometers from the city center. Access is via the main coastal road (EN1-SA1) heading east, where a sign indicates the turn-off for Monte Trigo. The road is unpaved and can be challenging for standard vehicles; a 4x4 vehicle is recommended. Parking is limited to informal pull-offs along the route. Public transport directly on Monte Trigo Road is not available; local transport typically involves shared taxis or pre-arranged private transfers from Porto Novo.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The construction of Monte Trigo Road began in the mid-20th century as part of an effort to improve connectivity and facilitate agricultural access on Santo Antão. Its development was driven by the need to reach higher altitude farming communities. Ecologically, the area is classified as a semi-arid montane region, shaped by volcanic activity and erosion. The sparse vegetation is adapted to low rainfall and high temperatures.

Key Highlights & Activities

Hiking is a primary activity along Monte Trigo Road, with several unmarked trails branching off. Visitors can observe traditional agricultural practices on terraced slopes. The road provides access to viewpoints overlooking the coastal plain and the interior valleys. Photography opportunities are present at various elevation changes. Limited opportunities for birdwatching exist, focusing on endemic species.

Infrastructure & Amenities

There are no formal restrooms or shade structures directly on Monte Trigo Road. Cell phone signal (2G/3G) is intermittent and unreliable, particularly at higher elevations. No food vendors are present along the road; provisions must be carried from Porto Novo City.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography is late morning (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM) or late afternoon (3:00 PM - 5:00 PM) to avoid harsh midday light and capture the landscape's contours. The best months for visiting are generally from November to May, during the drier season, when road conditions are more stable. Avoid the rainy season (June to October) due to potential washouts and difficult driving conditions.

Facts & Legends

A local anecdote suggests that during periods of extreme drought, residents would leave offerings at specific rock formations along the road, believing it would appease the mountain spirits and bring rain. The road's construction was a significant undertaking, often involving manual labor due to the challenging terrain.

Nearby Landmarks

• Ribeira Grande (10km Northeast)
• Ponta do Sol (12km Northeast)
• Cruzinha (8km West)
• Tarrafal de São Nicolau (via ferry from Porto Novo, 40km South across the sea)