Cova de Paul
A farmed volcanic crater high on Santo Antao, the starting point for the walk down the Paul valley.
Updated 2 October 2026
Cova is an old crater about a kilometre across near the top of Santo Antão, its floor flat and farmed in small plots of maize, beans and sugar cane, with the rim rising all around and cloud usually pouring over one side of it. The cobbled road across the island passes the rim, and the classic walk on Santo Antão starts here: down through the crater wall and the whole length of the Paul valley to the sea.
What you'll find
- The crater floor - a flat bowl farmed in small plots inside the volcanic rim.
- The rim road - the cobbled route across the island passing above the crater.
- The Paul walk start - the descent into the valley beginning at the rim.
- The cloud spill - trade wind cloud pouring over the crater edge.
When to go
November to June is the dry season. Cloud sits on the rim most afternoons. The walk down is best started early.
Things to know
Cloud closes the crater view frequently. The rim is cold and windy compared with the coast. The cobbled road is slow and travel sickness on it is common.
Nearby
Vale do Paul is below, and Ribeira Grande is northeast.
What to pack for Cova de Paul
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Broken-in walking shoes or boots - Grip and ankle support matter more than looks; never hike in brand-new boots. Find on Amazon
- Layers + a waterproof shell - Mountain weather turns fast; a packable rain jacket saves the day. Find on Amazon
- Daypack with rain cover - 20-30 litres holds water, snacks, layers and a first-aid kit. Find on Amazon
- Offline maps + a power bank - Download the trail before you lose signal; carry backup charge. Find on Amazon
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