Serra Malagueta Natural Park Hike & Relaxing Swim at Tarrafal Beach
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
Discover Santiago Island on a hike that covers Serra Malagueta Natural Park and Tarrafal Beach. See and learn about native flora and fauna and swim at Santiago's most beautiful beach, Tarrafal, surrounded by hills and palm trees.
Available options
Private Hike
Private<br/>Private car<br/>Pickup included
Shared Group Hike
Shared<br/>Full Trekking in Natural Park: Enjoy Awesome Landscapes above 1000 meters of altitudeTaste Grogue by Mr Marcelino (still young at 99 years old)<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Liability insurance
Picnic
Transportation
Pickup and drop-off at your accommodation in Praia
Professional Tour Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
The day begins with a pickup from your accommodation in Praia and heads to the inland of Santiago island.
2
Drive through the mountains to the Serra Malagueta Natural Park, where your hiking adventure awaits. Begin the hike through fertile areas at an altitude of 850 meters above sea level and follow your guide as you head into the lush landscapes of the park, which
spans 774 hectares, home to more than 124 species of plants and 19 species of birds. Be amazed by breathtaking scenery of the surrounding mountains and listen to your tour guide share
information about the local flora and fauna, many of which can only
be found here in the park.
Please not that the €2 per person for Park entrance is not included
3
The next stop is Tarrafal Beach, Santiago Island's most beautiful beach, surrounded by white sand, hills and palm trees. Swim and chill out on the shore, afterwards, take a break for a delicious lunch.
4
At the end of an unforgettable day, sit back and relax on the return journey to Praia.
What's not included
Entrance fee (€2 for Serra Malagueta Natural Park)
Available languages
Guide guide
PT
EN
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
8 reviews
5★
8
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.8
24 reviews
5★
21
4★
2
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please bring hiking shoes, flip-flops/sandals, a towel, a hat, swimwear, and sunscreen. We also strongly advise wearing hiking pants, especially from August to November.
Note that the visit to Assomada Market is only on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Activity for travelers over 6 years old.
ROUTE FILE : Walking Distance: +/- 8,5 km Total Walking Duration: +/- 3 hours Degree of difficulty: Moderate Elevation gain: +/- 280 m Elevation loss: -/+ 280 m Max Elevation: +/- 1075 m Min Elevation: +/- 800 m, Trail type: Loop Path quality: Flat, wide and safe trail
Important notes
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
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
