Farson Mercantile | Rock Springs

Chão Bom Village is a small settlement located on the island of Santiago in Cabo Verde, near the town of Tarrafal.

Visual Characteristics

The village consists of low-lying, single-story structures constructed primarily from concrete and painted in muted earth tones. Vegetation is sparse, characterized by drought-resistant shrubs and scattered palm trees. The coastline features dark volcanic sand and rocky outcrops.

Location & Access Logistics

Chão Bom Village is situated approximately 2 kilometers north of Tarrafal town center. Access is via the paved national road EN1-ST01. Parking is available along the unpaved tracks leading into the village. Public transport to Tarrafal town is frequent, with local minibuses (alugueres) operating daily. From Tarrafal, a short taxi ride or a walk of approximately 30 minutes is required.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The area's ecological origin is volcanic, with the landscape shaped by past lava flows. Historically, Chão Bom developed as a small fishing and agricultural community, supporting the larger population centers on Santiago.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe traditional fishing practices. Walking along the coastline is possible. The nearby Praia de Chão Bom offers opportunities for swimming during calm sea conditions.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Basic amenities include a small local shop selling essential goods. Restrooms are not publicly available. Cell phone signal (2G/3G) is generally present. No organized food vendors are present within the village itself; options are available in Tarrafal.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography is late afternoon, approximately 16:00 to 18:00, for softer light. The dry season, from November to June, offers the most favorable weather conditions. High tide can reduce the accessible beach area.

Facts & Legends

A local anecdote suggests that the name "Chão Bom" (Good Ground) was given by early settlers who found the soil surprisingly fertile for cultivating certain crops despite the arid climate.

Nearby Landmarks

• Praia de Tarrafal (0.8km South)
• Monte Graciosa (3.5km East)
• Ribeira da Prata (4.2km Northwest)
• Ponta Preta (4.8km Southwest)