Peak of Fire

Curiosity and Adventure

Pico do Fogo is one of those breathtaking places. While it represents all the danger that an eruption can bring, it is also a beautiful and fertile, magnetic place that makes you want to know it.

And it is this curiosity for this giant, mixed with a sense of adventure, that leads thousands of tourists to visit the peak of this volcano every year.

Tips for the visit

If you are going to visit Pico do Fogo, it is best to do so by hiring a local guide. This allows you to have someone to take you to the right places on your trip, as well as to be better informed as to what times are appropriate to climb it.

Normally the journey to the summit of the volcano is divided into two phases: one part by car, to Chã das Caldeiras, and the other by walking, to the summit of the volcano on the island of fogo.

Chã das Caldeiras is a village that is very close to the border of the Natural Park of Fogo. During the drive there, through winding roads, it is possible to observe the beautiful volcanic landscape, characteristic of these islands.

Rest and climb

Many people choose to stay in Chã das Caldeiras, where they can rest and sometimes taste regional products, such as Fogo’s wonderful cheese or wine. The idea is to climb Pico the next day, in the morning. Thus, they have the perfect opportunity to rest before starting the hike that will take them to the peak of the volcano. Another reason is the opportunity to go out in the morning, avoiding the hottest hours.

Furthermore, Chã das Caldeiras is a unique place, where the symbiosis between its inhabitants and the volcano itself can be perceived. The village, which is close to the volcano’s crater, was affected by the last eruption, but has been rising strongly.

The ascent

The rocks mixed with dirt make the terrain quite rough, making for a demanding climb. Here it is important to pay attention to the footwear, in particular, because it will have a very big impact on safety and comfort when climbing – it must be well-gripped and prepared for mountain walking.

Along the way it is possible to observe the beautiful scenery of this place. The dark gray of the basalt spewed out by the volcano over thousands of years, where sometimes small plants grow, leading to the top of the mountain; the view, as you climb, over the sea and the village; the walk on “living” land, even if it seems asleep. The majesty of the volcano, mixed with an introspective silence.

Pico do Fogo and the descent

The peak doesn’t have much to see, but it has plenty to feel. The feeling of overcoming and the possibility to contemplate the island from its highest place.

The descent is usually faster, as you would expect. However, you also need to be careful to avoid falls, given the high slope when going down.

It is the main attraction of Fogo Island and a place, without a doubt, not to be missed. Enjoy your hike to the top of the llha do Fogo mountain.

Along the way it is possible to observe the beautiful scenery of this place. The dark gray of the basalt spewed out by the volcano over thousands of years, where sometimes small plants grow, leading to the top of the mountain; the view, as you climb, over the sea and the village; the walk on “living” land, even if it seems asleep. The majesty of the volcano, mixed with an introspective silence.