Mosteiros: Coffee Cultivation, Landscape and Culture

Mosteiros is shaped by coffee cultivation and its humid slopes. Coffee has been grown on the middle and higher slopes of the municipality for two centuries. In rural areas, visitors can watch the traditional preparation and sample coffee locally. This connects the views of the plantations with a tangible culinary experience: cultivation, preparation and taste come together around a shared theme.

Coffee Cultivation and Cuisine

Djagacida also fits into this culinary context. The traditional dish of the island of Fogo is made with cornmeal, beans and cabbage, as well as fish or meat. In coffee-growing areas, it may be among the dishes on offer. Coffee and Djagacida appeal to different interests: coffee is about cultivation, preparation and tasting, while Djagacida showcases the ingredients of a traditional dish.

Places and Landscape

Tourist attractions in the municipality of Mosteiros include Baía de Murro Djeu and Praia Lantcha. Monte Sumbango, also known as Monte São Filipe, is located in the settlement of Sumbango. Parque Natural do Fogo covers a total of 8,469 hectares; 28 percent of its area lies in Mosteiros. The park extends across three municipalities. The total area describes the protected area as a whole, while the percentage puts Mosteiros in context.

Cultural Events

Cidade de Igreja, in the municipality of Mosteiros, is the venue for the Festival do Café do Fogo. Its programme includes conferences and sporting events, as well as fairs, exhibitions, coffee competitions and cultural performances. The festival thus brings together different aspects of coffee: information, competition and culture.

An event dated May 11 at the cross of Nhô São Filipe on Monte Sumbango included prayers and festivities, where believers from different parts of the municipality intended to fulfil their vows. Here, religious practice and a specific place are the focus, unlike the programme of the coffee festival. If you would like to plan your stay around one of these events, check the event dates in advance.

Cape Verde in the Wider Travel Context

As part of the wider destination of Cape Verde, the island of Fogo offers a further perspective on landscape and history. Its history dates back to the 15th century. On Fogo, visitors can see the effects and changes resulting from a volcanic eruption, learn about the island’s history and geology, and visit villages. Fogo volcano is considered the highest point in the archipelago and remains active. Chã das Caldeiras is a volcanic valley at the foot of Pico do Fogo, surrounded by high lava walls. A hike on the Chã das Caldeiras trail can take up to six hours and must be made with a local mountain guide.

Discover more destinations: Atalaia, Tarrafal, Sao Filipe, Maio, Sao Miguel, Ribeira Grande, Sao Vicente, Paul.

Back to the main travel overview: Cape Verde.