São Nicolau: Full-Day Island Experience by 4x4 + Françes Beach Tour

Cape Verde , Cape Verde

São Nicolau: Full-Day Island Experience by 4x4 + Françes Beach Tour

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About this experience

Discover São Nicolau, the island of nostalgia evoked by Cesária Évora, in her most famous music ever, “Sodade”. Discover the historic center of Ribeira Brava, considered National Heritage and wander at Praia do Françes, a famous medicinal sand beach rich in titanium and iodine.

Available options

São Nicolau: Full-Day Island Experience by 4x4 + Françes Beach Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Entrance fee to Museu de Pesca

Hotel pick-up and drop-off

Detailed itinerary

Get picked up at your accommodation in Ribeira Brava or Tarrafal and start your discovery. Pull out of Ribeira throughout one of the most spectacular road of Cape Verde Brava and admire a series of deep creeks cut into the mountainside of the northern coast before the lush Fajã Valley.

Then, enjoy a scenic drive that gently climbs Fajã de Baixo and Fajã de Cima, surrounded by mountains mixed with green farmland, dizzying streams, rugged peaks and arid landscapes.

Head to Hortelã with incredible views of the southern slope of Monte Gordo Natural Park, one of the seven wonders of Cape Verde.

Continue to the southwest and find the beautiful fishing village of Tarrafal. There, visit the Museu da Pesca (“Fish Museum”) built with the main objective of "keeping alive the history of the whale fishing race", which occurred between the 17th and 18th centuries. After that, enjoy a dip at Praia do Françes, a famous medicinal sand beach rich in titanium and iodine, recommended for relief from diseases of the bones and joints and sought for this reason.

Take a break for lunch at a local restaurant and then drive to Carberinho, an unmissable stretch of dramatic, wavy and smooth rock formations that have created a new wonder of Cape Verde.

The tour concludes with drop-off at your accommodation.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Note that the Museu de Pesca (Museum) is closed on Sundays.

Please bring sandals/flip flops, a towel, a hat, swimwear, and sunscreen.

About Cape Verde

Cape Verde is an archipelago of 10 volcanic islands off the coast of West Africa, known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and unique Creole heritage. The islands offer a blend of African, Portuguese, and Brazilian influences, making it a fascinating destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Top Attractions

Santa Maria Beach

A stunning beach on Sal Island with golden sands and clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and water sports.

Beach Half to full day Free

Mindelo

A lively town on São Vicente Island, known for its vibrant arts scene, music festivals, and colonial architecture.

Cultural Half to full day Free to explore, costs for activities

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cachupa

A hearty stew made with corn, beans, and various meats or fish, often served with rice.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian versions available.

Pastel com Diabos

Fried pastry filled with spicy tuna, served with a spicy sauce.

Snack Contains fish.

Popular Activities

Hiking Volcano trekking Water sports Beach lounging Sunset watching Spa treatments Museum visits Live music

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the peak tourist season with warm, dry weather and minimal rainfall. It's ideal for beach activities and outdoor adventures.

22-28°C 72-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Portuguese
Widely spoken: Cape Verdean Creole
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE)

Time Zone

GMT -1

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Cape Verde is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas. Exercise normal 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 Praia

By bus

Praia, Mindelo

Getting around

Public transport

Shared taxis that follow fixed routes. They are affordable but can be crowded.

Taxis

Available • Apps: No widely used apps, negotiate fare directly.

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Praia Santa Maria

Day trips

Cidade Velha

15 km from Praia • Half to full day

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Cidade Velha is the oldest settlement in Cape Verde, featuring historic churches, forts, and colonial architecture.

Fogo Volcano

50 km from São Filipe • Full day

Hike to the summit of one of the world's most active volcanoes for breathtaking views and unique landscapes.

Festivals

Carnaval de Mindelo • February/March (dates vary) Festa da Bandeira • October 22

Pro tips

Learn a few phrases in Cape Verdean Creole to connect with locals.
Pack layers; coastal areas can be breezy even when warm.
Try local dishes like Cachupa and Pastel com Diabos for an authentic experience.
Visit during the shoulder seasons for fewer crowds and lower prices.
Use reputable tour operators for activities like volcano trekking.