Santiago to Fogo Ferry

The ferry from Santiago to Fogo is one of the most rewarding crossings in Cape Verde. It connects Praia, the national capital, with São Filipe on Fogo island, home to Pico do Fogo — the only active volcano in the archipelago. The journey takes around 4 hours and runs several times per week as part of the CV Interilhas Linha Sotavento service.

The Route

Ferries depart from the port in Praia on Santiago and arrive at the port of São Filipe on Fogo's western coast. The crossing heads southwest across open Atlantic water. On a clear day you can see Fogo's volcanic peak rising from the ocean well before you arrive. São Filipe is a small and welcoming town built on cliffs overlooking the sea, with colourful colonial-era buildings and a handful of good restaurants.

How Long Does the Crossing Take?

The journey from Praia to São Filipe takes approximately 4 hours. Sea conditions can affect the crossing time, particularly during the windier months from November to March when the Atlantic swell is stronger. The vessel used on this route is the Kriola, operated by CV Interilhas.

How Often Do Ferries Run?

The Santiago to Fogo ferry runs several times per week as part of the Linha Sotavento schedule. Typical departure days include Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays, though this can vary seasonally.

Always check the current timetable before travelling as schedules change seasonally and can be affected by weather. Use the Ondas search tool to see the next available sailing on your chosen date.

Buying Tickets

Tickets can be purchased online through the CV Interilhas website at cvinterilhas.cv or at the port office in Praia. Booking in advance is recommended for this route as the Linha Sotavento runs less frequently than the northern Barlavento line and can fill up, especially during holidays and peak travel periods.

Tips for the Crossing

Arrive at the port in Praia at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure. Boarding closes before departure time and the ferry will not wait.

Bring food and water for the journey. While the Kriola has some onboard facilities, options can be limited and it is better to be prepared for a 4-hour crossing.

If you are prone to seasickness, take precautions. The open water between Santiago and Fogo can be choppy, particularly between November and March. Sitting in the centre of the vessel and staying on deck where you can see the horizon can help.

Bring a light layer. The air conditioning on board can be strong, and the temperature on deck drops once you are out at sea.

What to Expect on Fogo

Fogo is unlike any other island in Cape Verde. The landscape is dominated by Pico do Fogo, a 2,829-metre active volcano that last erupted in 2014. The caldera at the top is home to a small community called Chã das Caldeiras where residents grow grapes and produce wine from volcanic soil.

From São Filipe you can arrange guided hikes up the volcano, visit coffee plantations, or simply explore the town's quiet streets and ocean views. Fogo is one of the most memorable islands in the archipelago and well worth the journey.

Onward Connections From Fogo

From Fogo you can continue by ferry to Brava, the smallest inhabited island in Cape Verde. The Fogo to Brava crossing takes approximately 1 hour and runs on the same days as the Santiago to Fogo service. You can also return to Praia on the reverse sailing, which typically departs São Filipe in the late afternoon.