The island of Fogo is of unparalleled beauty. Its name comes from the imposing Pico do Fogo, a volcano that rises 2829 meters above sea level, making it the highest point in the archipelago and one of the seven wonders of the country.

Despite the recent history of activity, a resilient community lives around the fiery mountain in the town of Chã das Caldeiras. These are the children of the lava colossus who refuse to abandon what gives them life - the volcano itself! Some of them live in funcos, cylindrical houses built with the material expelled during eruptions.

Contrasting shades of volcanic ash with dense green vegetation, Chã das Caldeiras has a unique beauty. Its mineral-rich soil allows for the cultivation of grapes used in the production of local wines. As well as grapes, quinces, figs, apples, pomegranates, peaches and melons - the fruits of the lava - also grow on the slopes of the volcano. Chã das Caldeira is also home to several endemic plant species, some rare and endangered.

The city of São Filipe, the third oldest in the archipelago, is the largest urban center on the island. Endowed with a rich history, beautiful architecture and fascinating landscapes, this city deserves to be appreciated. Among the architecture, the sobrados stand out, marks of colonial history.

Bordering the southwest of the town is the beach Fonti Bila or Senhora da Encarnação beach, an immense black volcanic beach. Its strong waves break in white lace on the black sand, creating a perfect contrast. During the day, the blazing sun at its peak reveals the small crystals in the black sand. Fonti Bila. At sunset, the magnificent pinkish-orange sunset over this beach is an unmissable spectacle of nature.

Other must-sees in São Filipe include the Casa da Memória, a museum that preserves memorabilia from both the volcano island and the rest of the country; the Casa das Bandeiras, an important symbol of the island's folklore; the legendary Cemitério de Brancos with its stories; and finally, the local market where the delicious aroma of fresh produce mixes with the human warmth of the locals and the melodic Creole of the saleswomen who call out "levar um cusa".

Foguenses are a festive people. In May they celebrate Feast of St. Philip and São João in June, bringing crowds together for some of the country's biggest cultural events. During these festivities, you can witness fearless horse races and taste the Djagacida, a typical dish from Fogo.

A visit to this island is only complete after a swim in the natural pools of Salinas. You can't leave without drinking a local coffee in Mosteiros, or tasting the typical wine. manecom and the mushroom-shaped goat's cheese.

The island of Fogo is pure synesthesia! Let yourself be enveloped by its warmth.