Pico do Fogo, Stratovolcano in Santa Catarina do Fogo, Cape Verde.
Pico do Fogo is a stratovolcano in Santa Catarina do Fogo with a peak at 2,829 meters above sea level, making it the highest point in Cape Verde. The volcanic cone sits within a caldera roughly 10 kilometers wide.
The most significant eruption occurred in 1680, when volcanic ash covered the entire island and forced residents to evacuate to nearby Brava Island. This catastrophic event shaped the island's history for generations to come.
Local farmers work the mineral-rich volcanic soil to grow coffee and grapes, using methods passed down through generations and suited to this landscape. These farming traditions shape daily life on the island.
Local certified guides lead hiking expeditions along established trails to the summit while monitoring volcanic activity for visitor safety. Bring plenty of water and wear sturdy footwear, and check weather conditions before heading up the mountain.
The volcano maintains constant low-level activity, releasing gases through vents near the peak while hosting specialized plant life in the caldera. These rare plants have adapted to thrive in the extreme volcanic conditions found nowhere else.
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