Dona Amélia Lighthouse

São Vicente Island

Cape Verde

Located in the center of a cliff, the D. Amélia Lighthouse is a place where the immensity of the sea can be contemplated. Learn more about this lighthouse, here.

By Cape Verde Travel Guide

The D. Amélia Lighthouse

The Dona Amélia, Ponta Machado, or São Pedro lighthouse dates from 1894. Located on the western end of the island of São Vicente, this lighthouse is interesting for its beauty, despite its simplicity, in its shades of pink. This is one of the best known of the many lighthouses that exist in Cape Verde, along with the D. Maria Pia lighthouse on Santiago Island.

Why visit?

The Way

The way to the D. Amélia Lighthouse, located in a deserted place at one end of the island of São Vicente, is breathtaking, since it is an open pathway on the cliff, and it is fantastic to walk along it. And it is this path, about 2km long, that turns the experience into an adventure.

A landscape of contemplation of the immensity

When you arrive at the lighthouse you can get a deep view of the Atlantic Ocean, so important in the life of Cape Verdeans. There, it is possible to contemplate its immensity and feel small, helpless before such a force. And to feel the importance of a small lighthouse, in the middle of the rock, that guides (and has been guiding) the boats in this same immensity, making them reach a good port.
If you like hiking, and enjoy the scenery, take the time to visit this lighthouse.

Lighthouse Location

What to bring?

Important to bring food and drink, as it is in an isolated location, and it can take a good part of the day to visit.

You will have to walk, so it is best to wear comfortable, grippy shoes. And, depending on the time you visit the D. Amélia Lighthouse, a sweater may be needed.

Features

A lighthouse is something that always has beauty of construction, and fantastic views. And the Dona Amélia lighthouse is one of the most important in Mindelo.