Pico Papagaio

Pico Papagaio rises to 680 metres on Príncipe, a volcanic plug standing above the forest with steep sides and a narrow top, and the climb from near Santo António goes up through dense woodland with rope sections on the upper part. The summit gives the view over the whole northern half of the island. Príncipe's endemic birds, several found nowhere else, live in the forest the route passes through.

What you actually see

• The summit - 680 metres on a volcanic plug above the forest.
• The forest climb - the route up through dense woodland with rope sections.
• The island view - the northern half of Príncipe from the top.
• The endemic birds - the species found only on this island in the forest below.

When to go

June to September is the drier gravana season and the practical window. The forest is wet in most months. Cloud often covers the summit.

Honest expectations

The climb is steep with rope sections and is genuinely hard. A guide is required and must be arranged. Rain makes the route dangerous and cloud often closes the view.

Nearby

Santo António is north, and Baía das Agulhas is south.