Cova Crater

Santo Antão Island, Cabo Verde

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Cova Crater on Santo Antão Island, Cabo Verde, is a large extinct volcanic caldera about 1 km in diameter, located around 1,166 to 1,500 meters above sea level. It is part of the Cova-Paul-Ribeira da Torre Natural Park and is known for its remarkable natural beauty, fertile soil, and lush vegetation.

The crater's fertile grounds support agriculture, including crops like maize, beans, potatoes, and cassava, benefiting from frequent fog and high precipitation brought by trade winds. A small village with a few inhabitants lies within the crater. Cova Crater is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers, serving as the starting point for well-known trekking routes such as the trail to Vale do Paúl, which offers stunning rural and volcanic landscapes.

The crater's environment includes natural and semi-natural vegetation, with forests of pine and cypress on some slopes and diverse endemic species. It is appreciated for its scenic views, fresh air, and a mix of volcanic terrain and green fields, making it one of Santo Antão's iconic natural landmarks.