Tope de Coroa | Porto Novo City

Tope de Coroa, the highest peak on Santo Antão at 1,979 meters, offers some of the most breathtaking viewpoints in Cape Verde. From its summit and surrounding ridges, the vistas sweep across the island’s dramatic mountains, deep valleys, and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean, creating a panorama of contrasting colors and textures. The air is crisp and cool at this altitude, often carrying the scent of volcanic soil, native shrubs, and occasional mist drifting in from the northern slopes.

Landscape and Surroundings
The mountain rises sharply above surrounding valleys such as Ribeira Grande and Paul, providing a commanding view of terraced farmland, steep cliffs, and the network of hiking trails that thread through the highlands. On clear days, the northern coastline, with its lush vegetation, contrasts sharply with the drier southern slopes, where volcanic rocks dominate the scenery. The terrain around the summit is rugged, with sharp ridges, rocky outcrops, and patches of hardy alpine vegetation, giving the viewpoints a raw, untamed character.

Hiking and Access
Reaching the viewpoints requires a hike through varied terrain. Trails climb through forests of tall ferns and cultivated terraces before giving way to rockier paths near the peak. Hikers are rewarded with multiple vantage points along the ascent, each offering slightly different perspectives of Santo Antão’s mountains, valleys, and distant coastline. The paths often wind along ridges, creating a feeling of elevation and exposure that enhances the dramatic effect of the views.

Visitor Experience
Standing at a Tope de Coroa viewpoint, the sense of scale is striking. Terraced fields look miniature, valleys stretch deeply below, and the ocean extends to the horizon. The silence is occasionally broken by wind rushing along ridges or the distant calls of birds. Visitors often pause for long periods, soaking in the panorama, photographing the layered landscape, or simply feeling the altitude and remoteness of the island’s interior.

Connection to the Island
The viewpoints at Tope de Coroa offer both visual and geographic context. From here, the northern and southern slopes, coastal towns, and valleys are all visible, providing insight into the island’s agricultural, cultural, and natural diversity. Paths connecting the peak to surrounding villages and valleys allow for extended hiking circuits that link the summit views with local life and landscapes.

Closing Impression
Tope de Coroa’s viewpoints are a highlight of Santo Antão, combining elevation, dramatic scenery, and a sense of isolation. The sweeping vistas of valleys, ridges, and ocean, along with the crisp mountain air and rugged terrain, make them essential for anyone seeking to experience the full scale and beauty of the island’s volcanic interior.