Posts by Maxoufennec

Hi there, Thanks for your reply. We’re travelers who really value authenticity and connecting with people in a simple way. Villas, guides, and that kind of thing don’t fit with our philosophy. Thanks again!

Hello! We did the island crossing (backpacking) in November–December 2022 (3 weeks). We hiked the Corda–Coculi trail—it’s a 2-hour downhill walk (800m). The landscapes are stunning if the mist isn’t around!!! You can stay with Maria and Marissa in Corda. She runs the little grocery store. Very warm welcome. Marissa speaks French—she teaches French, English, and typing at the school. We also did the short hike from Ponto do Sol to Fontainhas—1 hour along the coast. You can have lunch at the café in Fontainhas at Chouck’s. If you want to stay overnight, a neighbor has a house clinging to the cliff, 30m from the café. Ask the café owner. The most beautiful hike would be from Fontainhas to Cruzinha, but that’s 5 hours of walking!!! As for Tarrafal, we were a bit disappointed. It lacks charm, but there’s a cheap bus that goes to Porto Novo every morning. We preferred Monte Trigo—a small fishing village with a great spot to relax at Osvaldo’s. Super welcoming, and the food and rooms are tastefully decorated. Plus, Monte Trigo’s beach is much safer (no big waves) than Tarrafal’s. Hope my tips help guide you positively through this majestic island with its big-hearted locals!

Hi there, We’re planning an 8-day backpacking trip on the island of São Nicolau. We’re torn between taking the boat from São Vicente or an inter-island flight. I’ve heard the boats don’t always run? We’d like to make three homestay stops to travel in a star pattern from each of the three points. First stop around Juncalinho, second stop near Cachaco, and finally a third leg near Tarrafal. We’re looking for simple but authentic guesthouses (no hotels). Any suggestions? Thanks