Things To Do
in Picos

Picos is a picturesque village located in Cabo Verde, known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture. Nestled amidst mountains and valleys, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding natural beauty. The village is a cultural hub, rich in music, dance, and local traditions.

Visitors to Picos can enjoy a unique blend of relaxation and adventure, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking an authentic experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Village
morning
:

Start your day with a traditional breakfast at a local café, then visit the Picos market to experience the vibrant local culture.

afternoon
:

Take a hike to the nearby Pico de Antonia for stunning views and enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant serving traditional Cabo Verdean dishes and enjoy live music from local artists.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the local art gallery to appreciate the works of Cabo Verdean artists, followed by a coffee break at a nearby café.

afternoon
:

Explore the surrounding hills on a guided nature walk, learning about the flora and fauna of the region.

evening
:

Attend a cultural performance showcasing traditional music and dance before enjoying a late-night snack at a street food stall.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚕Taxi ride (within town)$5
🏨Budget hotel night$40
🍺Local beer$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and hiking opportunities.
  • Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals.
  • Delicious local cuisine with fresh ingredients.
  • Limited public transport options.
  • Some areas may lack modern amenities.
  • Language barrier for non-Portuguese speakers.
  • "Olá" - Hello
  • "Obrigado/a" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Desculpe" - Sorry
  • "Onde fica…?" - Where is…?

Places to Visit in Picos

Visit one of these nice places.

Pico de Antonia

The highest peak in Cabo Verde provides panoramic views of the island, making it a perfect backdrop for stunning photographs.

Village Streets

The colorful, narrow streets of Picos are lined with traditional houses, offering countless photo opportunities.

Local Market

Capture the vibrant atmosphere of the local market with its lively stalls and friendly vendors.

Culinary Guide

Food in Picos

Picos offers a delightful culinary experience characterized by its fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. Local dishes are heavily influenced by African, Portuguese, and Brazilian cuisines, providing a unique taste of Cabo Verde.

Picos Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Cachupa

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

Must-Try!

Pastel com Diabo Dentro

Fried pastries filled with spicy tuna or other fillings, popular as a street food snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Picos Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local handicrafts, and street food vendors selling traditional dishes.

Climate Guide

Weather

Picos enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The dry season runs from November to July, while the rainy season occurs from August to October, bringing brief showers. Average temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) in winter to 30°C (86°F) in summer, making it a pleasant destination throughout the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake followed by a friendly smile is common when greeting someone, reflecting the local friendliness.

Dress Modestly

While casual clothing is acceptable, it’s respectful to dress modestly, especially in rural areas.

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to elders is an important cultural norm; it's customary to greet older individuals first.

Safety Guide

Safety

Picos is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid displaying valuables, especially in crowded areas. It's advisable to travel in groups at night and stay aware of your surroundings.

Tipping in Picos

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% at restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; however, some places also accept credit cards. It's advisable to carry local currency.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (December - February)

Expect mild temperatures with occasional rain. It's a great time for hiking and exploring the outdoors.

Spring (March - May)

This season brings warm weather and blooming flowers, perfect for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer (June - August)

Expect hot temperatures and dry conditions, ideal for beach activities but remember to stay hydrated.

Fall (September - November)

Temperatures begin to cool, making it a pleasant time for exploration and cultural events.

Nightlife Guide

Picos at Night

The nightlife in Picos is vibrant, featuring a mix of local bars, live music venues, and cultural events. Visitors can enjoy traditional Cabo Verdean music, including funaná and morna, at various venues. Street parties and cultural festivals often take place, providing an authentic experience of Cabo Verdean culture.

Hiking in Picos

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Trail to Lagoa do Vento

A scenic trail leading to a beautiful lagoon, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for birdwatching.

Cabo Verdean Highlands Trail

This trail offers a more challenging hike through the highlands, providing panoramic views of the islands and diverse flora.

Airports

How to reach Picos by plane.

Cesária Évora Airport

Located approximately 30 kilometers away in São Vicente, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, making it the nearest major airport to Picos.

Getting Around

Walkability

Picos is relatively walkable, with most attractions located within walking distance of each other. The village features narrow, cobblestone streets, making it easy to explore on foot. However, be prepared for some steep inclines in hilly areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Cabo Verdeans

The majority of the population consists of Cabo Verdeans, who have a rich cultural heritage and are known for their hospitality.

Expat Community

Picos also hosts a small expat community, primarily consisting of individuals from Europe and the Americas who have settled in Cabo Verde.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Cabo Verde, with local teams and passionate fans. Matches are held frequently, and attending a game is a great way to experience local culture.

Surfing

Cabo Verde is known for its excellent surfing conditions, attracting enthusiasts from around the world, especially on the island of Sal.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Picos is generally light, as the village has a small population. Public transportation options are limited, with shared taxis being the most common form of transit. Walking is often the best way to explore the village.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Picos.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to inform the chef about any dietary restrictions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Picos are limited; however, there are basic medical services available. For more serious health issues, it's advisable to travel to the nearest city, Mindelo, which has better healthcare options. Travelers should consider obtaining travel insurance that covers health services.

Discover Cabo Verde

Read more in our Cabo Verde 2025 Travel Guide.

Cabo Verde Travel Guide