Private Guided Santiago Island Tour: Workshop with Locals & Tarrafal Beach
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Take a private tour and explore Santiago's highlights with a local tour guide. Experience a workshop with a local family and learn to make Cape Verde's famous cuscus. Visit the colorful Assomada Market and cross the Serra Malagueta Natural Park to take a dip at Tarrafal beach, the most beautiful on the island. Meet the community that preserves Cape Verde's oldest customs and learn about the local culture.
Available options
Private Tour
Private <br/>Duration: 8 hours<br/>Private Transportation<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Pickup and drop-off at your accommodation in Praia
Liability insurance
Private Tour
Private Transportation
Workshop of Cuscuz and Fidjós (local delights)
Tour Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Get picked up at your accommodation, then depart toward the interior of the island.
2
Make your first stop at Mrs. Luisa's house. There, learn to cook and savor cuscuz (a traditional cake made from corn flour) and fidjós (fried banana mixed with wheat), the typical breakfast for Cape Verdean families.
3
After the workshop, head to the city of Assomada and visit its famous market (Wednesdays and Saturdays only), meet locals and admire the vibrant colors of the local fruits and vegetables.
4
Move on to the Serra Malagueta natural park and marvel at the incredible views from 1000 meters (3,280 feet) above sea level.
5
Next, swim at Santiago's most beautiful beach, Tarrafal, surrounded by white sand, hills and palm trees. Next, take a break for a delicious lunch at your own expense at a local restaurant and enjoy the local cuisine.
6
After lunch, drive back along the beautiful east coast, discover the community of Rabelados and experience the local culture with the natives who still live in thatched houses and preserve Cape Verde's oldest customs.
7
Drive between the country's verdant agricultural fields before heading to Praia.
8
The tour concludes with drop-off at your accommodation.
9
Discover Santiago's highlights on this full-day tour. Experience a workshop with a local family and learn to make Cape Verde's famous cuscus. Visit the colorful Assomada Market and cross the Serra Malagueta Natural Park to take a dip at Tarrafal beach, the most beautiful on the island. Meet the community that preserves Cape Verde's oldest customs and learn about the local culture.
What's not included
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
PT
EN
FR
ES
Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Service animals allowed
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please note that Assomada Market is open only on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Therefore the visit will only be on these days.
Please bring sandals/flip flops, a towel, a hat, swimwear, sunscreen and lunch money (optional).
Important notes
The pick-up time will be at 9:00 am at the reception of your accommodation or in front of your apartment. If your accommodation is not listed, please send us an email with your pick-up address in Praia.
Please keep some space to enjoy the local Cuscuz, Fidjós, tea/coffee during the workshop.
Please bring sandals/flip flops, a towel, a hat, swimwear, sunscreen and lunch money (optional).
The average cost of lunch is between 10 - 20 Euros/person. The local restaurant accepts cash payment in Euros or Local currency only. Credit cards are not accepted.
The Assomada Market is open only on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The visit will only be on these days.
For departures with less than 4 travellers, our professional tour guide may himself be the driver.
About Praia
Praia, the capital of Cape Verde, is a vibrant coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, rich history, and warm hospitality. It's a unique blend of African and Portuguese influences, offering a mix of modern amenities and traditional charm.
Top Attractions
Praia City Hall (Câmara Municipal da Praia)
A historic building with colonial architecture, serving as the city's administrative center.
Historical
30 minutes
Free
Plaza Alexandre Albuquerque
A central square with historic buildings, a statue of Alexandre Albuquerque, and a lively atmosphere.
Historical
30 minutes
Free
Praia Beach (Praia de Gamboa)
A popular beach with golden sand and clear waters, ideal for relaxation and water sports.
Beach
Half day
Free
Museu da Tabanka
A museum dedicated to the Tabanka tradition, a unique cultural expression of Cape Verde.
Museum
1 hour
Budget
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cachupa
A traditional stew made with corn, beans, and various meats or fish.
Main Course
Vegetarian versions available
Pastel de Milho
Corn-based pastry filled with various ingredients like meat, fish, or cheese.
Snack
Vegetarian options available
Canja
A comforting soup made with chicken, rice, and vegetables.
Soup
Can be made vegetarian
Grogue
A traditional Cape Verdean rum made from sugarcane.
Drink
Alcoholic
Popular Activities
Hiking in Serra Malagueta
Water sports at Praia Beach
Sunbathing at Praia Beach
Picnicking in Parque da Várzea
Visiting Museu da Tabanka
Exploring Cidade Velha
Swimming
Snorkeling
Best Time to Visit
November to July
This is the dry season with sunny weather and minimal rainfall, ideal for beach activities and sightseeing.
20-30°C
68-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Portuguese
- Widely spoken: Cape Verdean Creole
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE)
Time Zone
GMT-1
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Praia is generally safe, but petty crime can occur. Exercise usual precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis
Getting there
By air
- Nelson Mandela International Airport • 3 km from city center
By bus
Praia Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and widely used, but can be crowded. Routes cover most of the city and nearby areas.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Boltax
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Plateau
Achada Santo António
Várzea
Day trips
Cidade Velha
15 km • Half day
A UNESCO World Heritage site with historic buildings, churches, and a rich colonial history.
Tarrafal
30 km • Full day
A beautiful beach town with stunning beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.
Serra Malagueta
10 km • Half day
A scenic mountain area with hiking trails and panoramic views of Praia.
Festivals
Carnaval de Praia • February or March (dates vary)
Festival de Música da Praia • July
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic phrases in Portuguese or Cape Verdean Creole
- Try local dishes like Cachupa and Pastel de Milho
- Visit local markets for authentic shopping experiences
- Explore the city on foot to discover hidden gems
- Respect local customs and traditions for a more immersive experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
