Trekking in Boa Vista, between dunes and deserts. Interview with Giusy Bisignano.

From hospital manager to ultratrail runner and professional guide, Giusy Bisignano tells us about the island of Cape Verde, a place where you run with your body and love with your soul.

Giusy Bisignano is a woman of extreme passions and courageous choices. A hospital manager, she is also an ultra-trail runner with a special and deep connection to the island of Boa Vista, in the Cape Verde archipelago. A love born while running, among golden dunes and endless beaches, which sees her return regularly to challenge herself in the renowned Boa Vista Ultra Trail.

• Your story isn't conventional. Can you tell us about your journey?

In 2017, I felt the need for a change. After an initial move to Los Roques, Venezuela, I arrived in Boa Vista . It was a revelation. The immensity of its deserts and the power of the ocean reawakened a desire for a more essential life. My goal is to move here more permanently, bringing my experience and passion to those seeking an authentic connection with this magical land.

• What does trekking mean to you?

"It's a sense of pure freedom, it was a real revelation. It's an exceptional stress reliever, a way to reconnect with yourself. Walking in those spaces, without constraints, is my way of reconnecting with my body and mind. Running is the challenge, trekking is the embrace of the island."

Trekking in Boa Vista with I Love Boavista: a mindful approach

• Now you're putting your ultratrail experience to work for those who want to trek on the island, along with your trekking partner Daniele Stefano Rollo and I Love Boavista. What do you offer?

"With Daniele, also an expert and passionate trekking enthusiast, we have combined our skills to create an offer that goes far beyond a simple excursion. Ours is a conscious approach , aimed at allowing participants to enjoy the experience from departure to return, in complete safety."

Professionalism and safety come first

Our priority is to transform exploration into a moment of personal growth, supported by a professional structure, so we act in this way:

· Initial Assessment: We ask participants to fill out a questionnaire to assess their training, health, and motivation, allowing us to understand how far we can go and build homogeneous groups.

· Unforeseen Event Management: My medical training and Daniele and I's field experience allow us to resolve any unforeseen issues that may arise along the way, ensuring maximum safety.

· Complete Assistance: We provide all the necessary material and technical assistance , including support vehicles and checkpoints at various locations. Furthermore, along the route, if necessary, we also offer psychological support, as long hikes can be challenging.

The call of the desert and the ocean

You are an experienced athlete in the Boa Vista Ultramarathon (also known as the Boa Vista Ultra Trail) which in 2025 is scheduled for December 6th and 7th starting from Sal Rei.

• What goals have you set for your next return in December?

"My main goal is always to reach the finish line and enjoy every single kilometer, savoring the unique energy of this island I love. Whether running or hiking, the important thing is walking in those immense spaces, which for me are a true 'island of joy' for body and soul."

• One last question. What message would you like to send to those who want to discover the real Boa Vista?

Don't expect a super-tourist island. Boa Vista is authentic, wild, and asks you to respect it. If you love nature, the wind, and the feeling of being small before the immensity, you won't find a more regenerating place. Whether you run or walk, come with us: we'll be happy to accompany you, with expertise and professionalism, into the immensity of Cape Verde's Morabeza . We look forward to seeing you!

Itineraries for everyone and a sense of community

With I Love Boavista and our expert trekking partners you can try routes ranging from light trekking, even just short walks from Sal Rei to the church of Fatima with a swim in Praia David, for those who want to begin, up to more competitive experiences, with the guidance of experts who will be able to best direct you.

· Booking flexibility: You can choose to book with groups on closed dates, or join groups on-site. We also offer the option of creating customized, ad hoc itineraries, either booked before the trip or organized on the island at our offices or online.

· Building connections: A key aspect is creating groups that connect along the way, fostering synergies and friendships. The journey isn't just physical, it's human.

For information on upcoming guided trekking itineraries with Giusy and Daniele (I Love Boavista) and the next edition of the Ultra Trail in December, chat with us at www.iloveboavista.com