Near the main crater is a small village populated by the descendents of French exiles. Referring to it as 'Big Man', they live alongside the volcano, growing apples, pomegranates, cashew, coffee and - most importantly - the grapes that are used to make Cape Verde's very own wine.
The weather here is different from the rest of the country. Summer brings very hot, humid weather with daytime temperatures of up to 32ºC, but the nights are cold, especially from December through to March. However, on an island where rain is scare, this climate provides the people of Fogo with a way to make a living through agriculture.
If you're feeling adventurous, climb the mountain towards the mouth of the volcano and take in some spectacular views. From here, continue on to São Filipe, the island's main village. The little town is very inviting with attractive old colonial houses, beautiful squares and several restaurants where you can sample Djagassida, the typical dish of Fogo.
On the other side of the island is the small village of Mosteiros. See where the lava flowed during past eruptions and keep an eye out for some interesting looking houses built using volcano rocks. It is said that it is safer to build houses where the lava once ran, as a volcano's lava never takes the same course twice.
May to September is the best time to come, especially mid-June when the grape harvest begins and production of the island's traditional red and white wine gets underway. The small village of Chã das Caldeiras on the top of the volcano welcomes all visitors to this lively annual event. The wine is available to buy on all the islands and makes a unique souvenir to take home.
May 1st is the date for the island's annual festival, Bandêra's Party, a celebration of religion and folklore with food and music that attracts Cape Verdeans from across the islands and tourists from around the world.
Fogo can be reached from Praia, Santiago, via a 12 minute plane journey or by boat.
Contact nôscasa now or register your details online