Things To Do
in Cova Figueira

Cova Figueira is a picturesque village located on the island of Fogo in Cabo Verde. Known for its stunning volcanic landscapes, it offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The village is situated at a high altitude, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the famous Pico do Fogo volcano.

With its warm climate and friendly locals, Cova Figueira is a hidden gem for travelers seeking adventure and tranquility.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering the Village
morning
:

Start your day with a traditional breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh bread with cheese and coffee.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour around the village to learn about its history and the local farming practices, including visiting the nearby coffee plantations.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional dishes, followed by a stroll through the village to experience the local nightlife.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure in Nature
morning
:

Embark on a hike to the nearby Pico do Fogo, taking in stunning views and exploring the unique volcanic landscape.

afternoon
:

Return to Cova Figueira for lunch, then visit a local market to pick up handmade crafts and souvenirs.

evening
:

Attend a cultural event or music performance in the village to immerse yourself in the local traditions.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10-15
Coffee$1-2
🍺Local beer$2-4
🏨Hotel per night$30-60
🚌Bus fare$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and hiking opportunities.
  • Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals.
  • Delicious local cuisine with unique flavors.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport can be infrequent and unreliable.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Portuguese speakers.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado/a" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Desculpe" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Cova Figueira

Visit one of these nice places.

Pico do Fogo

The majestic volcano is a must-visit for stunning panoramic shots of the surrounding landscape.

The Village Square

Capture the essence of local life with photographs of the bustling market and vibrant community interactions.

Coffee Plantations

The lush green surroundings of the coffee fields provide a picturesque backdrop for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Cova Figueira

Cova Figueira offers a delightful culinary experience with its unique blend of Cape Verdean flavors and traditional dishes.

Cova Figueira Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Cachupa

A hearty stew made with corn, beans, and a variety of meats or fish, often considered the national dish of Cabo Verde.

Must-Try!

Prego

A popular sandwich made with marinated beef served on a local bread, typically accompanied by spicy sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local Market

A vibrant market in Cova Figueira where you can find fresh produce, local crafts, and street food like grilled fish and pastries.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cova Figueira has a mild climate with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) year-round. The dry season lasts from November to June, while the wet season occurs from July to October, bringing occasional rain. The coastal areas are typically warmer, while the altitude of Cova Figueira provides cooler temperatures, particularly in the evenings.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake and a friendly smile are common; addressing people with respect is important.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially in rural areas, to show respect for local customs.

Photography Etiquette

Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially in rural communities.

Safety Guide

Safety

Cova Figueira is generally safe for tourists, but as with any destination, it is advisable to remain vigilant, particularly in crowded areas. Avoid displaying valuables and be cautious when walking alone at night. Local authorities are approachable, and emergency services can be contacted easily if needed.

Tipping in Cova Figueira

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants; however, check if a service charge is already included.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, and ATMs are available, but credit cards may not be accepted in all establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (December to February)

Mild temperatures with occasional rainfall; a great time for hiking and exploring the outdoors.

Spring (March to May)

Warm and dry conditions; ideal for outdoor activities and experiencing local festivals.

Summer (June to August)

Hot and sunny; perfect for beach outings, but be prepared for higher tourist traffic.

Autumn (September to November)

Cooling temperatures and less humidity; a great time for photography and cultural experiences.

Nightlife Guide

Cova Figueira at Night

Cova Figueira's nightlife is relaxed and centered around social gatherings. Locals often gather in bars and restaurants for live music, especially on weekends. Expect to hear traditional Cape Verdean music, including morna and funaná, providing an authentic cultural experience. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it easy to mingle with locals and fellow travelers.

Hiking in Cova Figueira

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Pico do Fogo Trail

A challenging hike leading to the summit of Cabo Verde's highest peak, offering breathtaking views of the island and beyond.

Chã das Caldeiras Trail

An easier hike through the volcanic crater, providing opportunities to see diverse flora and fauna along with stunning landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Cova Figueira by plane.

São Filipe Airport (SFL)

The nearest airport to Cova Figueira, located approximately 30 km away. It offers domestic flights to and from the main islands of Cabo Verde.

Getting Around

Walkability

Cova Figueira is quite walkable, with the main village area being compact and easy to navigate on foot. The terrain can be hilly, but the scenic views make walking enjoyable. Most local attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance, allowing visitors to soak in the local atmosphere.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Farmers

Many residents are engaged in agriculture, particularly coffee and crop farming, which plays a significant role in the local economy.

Craftspeople

Artisans and craftspeople create handmade goods, including textiles and pottery, contributing to the cultural identity of Cova Figueira.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Cabo Verde, with local teams and community matches being a common sight.

Volleyball

Beach volleyball is enjoyed both casually and competitively, especially among the youth in coastal areas.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Cova Figueira is minimal, with most transportation consisting of local buses, taxis, and private vehicles. Roads can be narrow and winding, particularly in the mountainous areas. Public transportation is available but may not run frequently, so planning ahead is advisable.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cova Figueira.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While meat is common, many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes like stewed vegetables and beans.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options can be limited, but rice and corn-based dishes are widely available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Cova Figueira is basic, with a local health center available for emergencies and minor treatments. For more serious medical needs, travelers may need to visit facilities in the larger town of São Filipe, which is about an hour away. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Cabo Verde

Read more in our Cabo Verde 2025 Travel Guide.

Cabo Verde Travel Guide