Cabo Verde  DIARY  2

From Diary 1 and Santiago, I now explore Sao Nicolau.
It is one of the least visited islands of the Cape Verde Islands. It was discovered by the Portuguese in 1461, along with the surrounding islands of Sao Vicente and Santo Antao and the island is named after Saint Nicholas. There are approximately 13,000 inhabitants. The life on Sao Nicolau is in general a relatively simple farmer's life. The mountainous island has fertile soil in the west, while the lower areas in the east are very dry. At the foot of the mountain range, sugar cane and coffee plantations are found along with many bananas, oranges, papayas and beans. Here are 46 endemic plant species

The rocky island is about 45 by 20 kilometres in size, covering 343 square kilometres, with the highest point at an altitude of over 1,312 meters; Monte Gordo. On its slopes, national park Monte Gordo is found, covering 950 hectares. The nature reserve includes forests, rivers and a rich flora and fauna. The very rich biodiversity is unique in the Cape Verde island. It is dry in the north and northeast of the park. And in the south and southeast of the Monte Gordo park there are more humid areas. Partly caused by the fog and rising rain clouds. No less than 32 endemic plant species grow in the park, the majority are endangered. The main town is old Ribeira Brava with about 8,000 inhabitants, found inland for protection against pirates.