Monte Gordo Natural Park
A protected massif on Sao Nicolau holding the island's endemic plants and its highest ground.
Updated 21 October 2026
Monte Gordo rises to around thirteen hundred metres on São Nicolau and is the highest ground on the island, protected as a natural park since 2003. Its upper slopes catch cloud and hold a concentration of endemic plants, including the dragon tree and species found only in Cape Verde, and pine and eucalyptus were planted lower down to hold the soil. Marked trails climb from the surrounding villages to the summit.
What you'll find
- The summit - the highest ground on Sao Nicolau at around thirteen hundred metres.
- The endemic plants - species found only in the archipelago on the upper slopes.
- The dragon trees - the distinctive endemic tree surviving in the park.
- The marked trails - routes climbing from the villages to the top.
When to go
November to June is the dry season. Cloud on the summit is frequent. The greenest period follows the August and September rains.
Things to know
Cloud closes the summit views a great deal of the time. Trails are steep and marking is patchy. São Nicolau has limited transport and facilities.
Nearby
Ribeira Brava is east, and Carberinho is northwest.
Key facts
Source: Wikidata, item Q1778115, read on 18 October 2026.
What to pack for Monte Gordo Natural Park
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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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
