Santa Cruz covers a stretch of the east coast of Santiago, about 25 kilometres north of Praia, where streams from the central mountains spread out over some of the island's most fertile soil. Farmers grow bananas, papayas and coconuts on irrigated land, alongside the maize and beans most families still grow for their own table. Pedra Badejo, the main town, is a small market centre where farmers trade produce that goes on to bigger markets in Praia and Assomada. It also has a beach close to the centre that draws day-trippers from the capital. Near the town, the Lagoas de Pedra Badejo are an important wetland.
Days out on the east coast
Santa Cruz shows how much of Santiago lives, among farms rather than hotels. A morning in Pedra Badejo can start at the market and end with a swim at the town beach when the sea is calm. The lagoons reward a slow walk with binoculars to watch the waterbirds. For hiking, the mountains are close: São Lourenço dos Órgãos, which was once part of Santa Cruz, rises just inland, with trails towards Pico de Antónia. The coast road north leads on to São Miguel and the Serra Malagueta walks.
Booking on adventuro
Pedra Badejo makes a relaxed base between Praia and the north. Use the Book here tab to see live dates for trips across Santiago.
