The camping sites have been carefully chosen during our trips. Some of them are located within the National Park Reserve under the Ministry of Agriculture management. We expect you to fully comply with the rules and regulations. No toilet facilities are provided at these sites. No campfires allowed and no sample collection - neither animal or plant.
The Equipment List is provided for those who plan to camp or stay outdoors. Any additional item depends on your preferences.
Boots: are an important part of the outfit. For our tracks they should be medium weight and waterproof. You should start breaking in them before going out on the trails. New boots can cause blisters to form quickly. Also important is to keep your toenails short.
Clothing: During rain season waterproof and warmth should be taken into consideration. For day time when temperature rises, lighter clothing will be necessary.
Tent: Bring one that will keep you warm dry and comfortable. The tent should be lightweight and easy to install.
Sleeping Bag: After a day on the trail, a good night sleep is essential. Even though temperatures are mild they can drop at night especially at higher altitudes. Bring one that will keep you warm and dry in case of rain.
Other recommended equipment: Hats to protect you against cold, wind, sun or rain. (It is difficult to find one that will protect you against all the elements, so you may consider more than one type.) Sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun's UV, sunscreen, mosquito or bug repellent, binoculars, watch, camera, swim suit, first aid kit, pocket knife, flashlight, whistle, toiletries and personal items, toilet paper and trash bags.
Climate: Midday temperature for January is about 27C(81F), dropping to about 20C(68F) at night. Temperature will rise again until September reaching midday average of 31C(88F) and dropping to 24C(75F) at night. Towards December temperatures fall again.
Health Precautions: are only those that might be deemed "prudent". Hygiene - attention to drinking filtered water only, and chewing a couple of Pepto-Bismol tablets at the first hint of intestinal upset. Although one neighborhood in Santiago occasionally experiences seasonal outbreaks of malaria, travelers need not concern themselves with oral prophylaxis.
Cape Verde Hiking - On The Edge Adventures Guided Tours and Trips of Santiago Island