Boa Vista Island: Full-Day Wild Beaches & Viana Desert Experience
Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Enjoy a full-day tour around Boa Vista with included hotel pickup and drop-off. Swim into the beautiful turquoise waters of Ervatão beach and discover the Viana Desert, one of the seven wonders of Cape Verde.
Available options
Private Tour
Private Tour<br/>Pickup included
Shared Group Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Liability insurance
Pickup and drop-off at your accommodation
Tour Guide
Transportation
Detailed itinerary
1
Hotel Riu Touareg - 08:30 //Hotel Estoril - 08:50// Hotel Riu Karamboa - 08:50 // Hotel Iberostar Club Boa Vista - 08:50 //
Hotel Riu Palace - 08:50 // Ca Madeira Deluxe - 08:50 // Sal Rei - 09:00
2
Start your journey with pickup from your accommodation and drive towards the Fonte Vicente Oasis. Here, discover unspoiled nature, learn about the local fauna from your guide, and observe fruit trees such as the fig, almond, tamarind, and an exotic baobab tree.
3
Move on to the ghost fishing village of Curral Velho, a settlement that was abandoned due to endless drought and pirate attacks. Learn the local history and explore its former salt mine.
4
Move on to a beautiful off-road trip to the wild beach of João Barrosa.
5
Relax on Ervatão Beach, a wild paradise where loggerhead turtles lay their eggs. There, if the sea conditions permit, have the opportunity to swim in the beautiful waters of this paradisiacal beach.
6
The island tour continues towards the villages in the northeast, with a break for a delicious lunch at Fundo das Figueiras, a small village entirely dedicated to agriculture and pastoralism where the famous local goat cheese is produced.
7
Finally, venture into the Viana Desert, one of Cape Verde's seven wonders, a must-see when visiting Boa Vista Island. Walk along the sands and admire the incredible landscape with over 10 km of fabulous white sand dunes.
8
The tour concludes with a drop-off at your accommodation.
What's not included
Lunch
Pick-up and Drop-off at the Riu Touareg Hotel (30 Euros)
Available languages
Guide guide
PT
EN
IT
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
3 reviews
5★
3
4★
0
3★
0
2★
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1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Sal Rei
Sal Rei is the largest city on Boa Vista island in Cape Verde. Known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and rich cultural heritage, it offers a blend of relaxation and adventure. The city is a gateway to some of the most beautiful landscapes in Cape Verde, making it a unique and appealing destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Praia de Chaves
Praia de Chaves is one of the most beautiful beaches in Cape Verde, known for its white sand and crystal-clear waters. It's perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
Deserto de Viana
Deserto de Viana is a stunning desert landscape with towering sand dunes. It's a unique sight in Cape Verde and offers great opportunities for photography and adventure.
Nature
Half day
Free
Sal Rei Market
The local market in Sal Rei is a great place to experience the island's culture and buy fresh produce, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
Market
1-2 hours
Free to enter, prices vary for purchases
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cachupa
A traditional Cape Verdean stew made with corn, beans, and various meats or fish. It's often served with rice and is a must-try dish.
Dinner
Contains meat or fish, can be vegetarian if made without.
Pastel de Milho
A sweet corn pastry, similar to a corn bread, often served as a snack or dessert.
Snack
Vegetarian, may contain dairy.
Bafanta
A local alcoholic drink made from sugar cane, similar to rum. It's often enjoyed as an aperitif or digestif.
Drink
Alcoholic, not suitable for those avoiding alcohol.
Popular Activities
Hiking in Deserto de Viana
Snorkeling at Praia de Chaves
Sunbathing at Praia de Chaves
Strolling through the city center
Visiting Sal Rei Market
Exploring local museums and galleries
Swimming
Snorkeling
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the dry season with warm temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for beach activities and sightseeing. The weather is perfect for outdoor adventures and exploring the island's natural beauty.
24°C to 28°C
75°F to 82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Portuguese
- Widely spoken: Cape Verdean Creole (Kriolu)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE)
Time Zone
GMT-1
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Sal Rei is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty theft and scams can occur, so it's important to stay vigilant.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services
Getting there
By air
- Rabil Airport • 5 km from Sal Rei
By bus
Sal Rei Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Local buses, known as aluguer, are shared taxis that follow set routes. They are affordable but can be crowded.
Taxis
Available • Apps:
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Praia de Chaves
Day trips
Deserto de Viana
20 km from Sal Rei • Half day
Deserto de Viana offers a unique desert landscape with towering sand dunes. It's a great place for photography and adventure.
Praia de Chaves
10 km from Sal Rei • Half day to full day
Praia de Chaves is one of the most beautiful beaches in Cape Verde, known for its white sand and crystal-clear waters.
Festivals
Festival de Música da Baía das Gatas • July
Pro tips
- Visit the island's natural pools, such as the ones at Cabo Verde, for a unique swimming experience.
- Try local dishes like cachupa and pastel de milho for an authentic culinary experience.
- Explore the island's desert landscapes, such as Deserto de Viana, for a unique adventure.
- Respect local customs and traditions, and always ask permission before taking someone's photo.
- Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun, as the island can be very hot and dry.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
