BEST VALUE small group island tour w/SHARK experience & salt lake
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BEST VALUE small group island tour w/SHARK experience & salt lake

Active
(59 reviews)
6h - 7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Our local and certified guide will take you on the most amazing visit to the island of Sal. More then the touristic points you will see also how the locals live, work, eat and get insight on tales and carachters of the island. Our certified guide will surprise you with his knowledge about the history of Cape Verde and Santa Maria, the tails from popular believe and insight about the future of this esquisite island. The tour includes Shark Bay where you can see the shark lemons in their natural environment. and the thermal volcanic waters of Pedra De Lume Salinas - one of Cape Verde seven wonders and UNESCO listed heritage.The tour starts at 9am.

Available options

Off the beaten track island tour with a local and certified guied

Private tour possible: This tour can be made in a Private car with snorkeling and wi fi included. Please enquire. Also can be tailor made.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pick up and Drop off
Native and certified Guide
Baby and toddler Seat
Liability insurance
Observe sharks in their natural environment; float in the salt pans and swim at natural pool

Detailed itinerary

1

Sal (Portuguese for "salt") is an island in Cape Verde. Sal is a tourist destination with white sandy beaches and over 350 days of sunshine a year. It is one of the three sandy eastern islands of the 10 island Republic of Cabo Verde in the central Atlantic Ocean, 350 miles off the west coast of Africa. Cabo Verde is known for excellent year-round kiteboarding, for the large reserve of Caretta Turtles which hatch July - September, and for its multi-cultural heritage and beautiful music.

2

We will drive you through the back streets of Santa Maria whilste sharing the history of this city that has transformed from a village which exploited salt to the biggest tourist city in Cape Verd. You will have a perception of town and local living outside of the main commercial streets and coastal area of the city.

3

Natural reserve of the bay of the murdeira, which has great diversity of corals and fish, and we can enjoy the beautiful view of the lion mountain.

4

Palmeira one of twhere the commercial port of the island is located is the most pituresque fishing village of the island where you can stroll around the narrow and colourful streets full of colonial houses and observe the simple pace of living. We willsee the arrivals of the craft boats and see all the activity around the preparation and sale of fish.

5

The blue eye coral and Buracona landscape is one of the seven wonders of Cape Verde. Not only you will be able to observe the spetacular blue of the coral when the sun shines above the cave but also enjoy the natural pool where you can swim in a spetacular setting surrounded by vulcanic formations. If the ocean allows we will show you the hidden lovers cave , a hidden gem that not many tourists know. You will also have the time to explore the area, namely observing the interesting Sal Island 3d map made of sand, observe the display of the archipelague made with broken shells and stroll around the geological museum.

6

From Buracona, you will marvel with the mirage on your way to the population of Terra Boa. The mirage an optical illusion caused by atmospheric conditions, especially the appearance of a sheet of water in this desertic part of the island, is one of the most interesting experiences of the tour. Our guide will help you to take criative pictures, show you the little souvenir shop where you can see and buy souvenirs made in the spot by the local artisan, whilste tasting local liquers.
Further on our way to Espargos we will drive through Terra Boa, a population with less then 200 people which is one of the less developed of Sal. We will give you the option to speak to the ONGs that work with the families in need and also dispose of any donations you may have.

7

Located near both the airport and the ferry dock, Espargos – the island's capital – is a small, dusty workaday town that feels more like the real Cabo Verde than touristy Santa Maria. Its shady main square, the new market, low-key bars and laidback street life give Espargos some charme and make the city the best place to try some Creole Cooking or catch some genuine traditional music as well as understanding the cape verdean life style . Further to lunch we will also get to Monte Curral the highest point in town (109 meters) where you will have an amazing aerial view of the town, airport and coastal areas close by.

8

See lemmon sharks in their natural environment

9

Pedra de Lume is the birth place of the island and the doorway to Salinas ( salt evaporation ponds). You will stroll around the small pier and the old factory and ship recks before heading to the lake situated in the crater of an extinct volcano, where the waters rise from deep in the earth rather than from lateral infiltration from the ocean. In Salinas you will have time to float in medicinal thermal waters and take a mud bath as well as enjoy the quiteness and imponence of this piece of nature that marvels everyone that visits it.

What's not included

Tips (optional)
Lunch
Pictures (optional)
Entrance to Buracona (3€) and Salinas (6€)
Buracona - Olho Azul
Salinas
Snacks and Drinks are not included
Water shoe at shark bay if you do not have (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide
EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 2.9
7 reviews
5★
1
4★
1
3★
3
2★
0
1★
2
Tripadvisor 4.6
52 reviews
5★
45
4★
1
3★
1
2★
4
1★
1

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please bring a bottle of water, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, swimsuit, water shoes (if you have one) and towels

Important notes

Give the entry ticket to the driver on the day of the tour

About Santa Maria

Santa Maria is the vibrant heart of Sal Island, known for its stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. This charming town offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, making it a top destination in Cabo Verde.

Top Attractions

Santa Maria Beach

Santa Maria Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Cabo Verde, known for its golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant atmosphere.

Beach Half-day to full day Free

Palmeira Beach

Palmeira Beach is a quieter alternative to Santa Maria Beach, offering a more relaxed setting with beautiful natural scenery.

Beach Half-day to full day Free

Buracona Natural Pool

Buracona is a stunning natural pool formed by a collapsed cave, offering a unique swimming experience in crystal-clear waters.

Nature Half-day Moderate

Santa Maria Market

The local market is a great place to experience the vibrant culture and cuisine of Cabo Verde, offering a variety of fresh produce, crafts, and souvenirs.

Market 1-2 hours Budget to moderate

Pedra de Lume

Pedra de Lume is a historic salt mine and a former salt production site, offering a unique glimpse into the island's past.

Historical Half-day Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cachupa

A traditional stew made with corn, beans, sweet potatoes, and meat or fish.

Main dish Vegetarian and vegan options available.

Pastel

A fried pastry filled with fish, meat, or vegetables.

Snack Vegetarian and vegan options available.

Grogue

A traditional Cape Verdean rum made from sugarcane.

Drink Alcoholic.

Popular Activities

Snorkeling Scuba diving Hiking Beach lounging Spa treatments Yoga Visiting local markets Attending festivals

Best Time to Visit

November to June

This is the peak tourist season, offering the best weather conditions for beach activities and sightseeing. The days are sunny, and the nights are pleasant.

25-30°C 77-86°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

Santa Maria is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur, especially in crowded areas. Exercise caution and keep valuables secure.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
  • • Use reputable transportation services.
  • • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services.

Getting there

By air
  • Amílcar Cabral International Airport • 15 km from Santa Maria
By bus

Santa Maria Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Shared taxis (aluguer) are a common and affordable way to get around. They follow fixed routes and can be hailed on the street.

Taxis

Available • Apps: N/A

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Town Center Palmeira

Day trips

Espargos
20 km • Half-day

The largest town on the island, offering a glimpse into local life and history.

Santa Maria Salt Mines
10 km • Half-day

A historic salt mine offering a unique glimpse into the island's past.

Festivals

Santa Maria Music Festival • July Carnaval Celebrations • February to March

Pro tips

  • Visit the local markets for authentic souvenirs and a taste of Cape Verdean culture
  • Try the local cuisine, especially fresh seafood and traditional dishes like cachupa
  • Explore the natural beauty of the island, such as Buracona Natural Pool and Palmeira Beach
  • Experience the vibrant nightlife and live music scene in Santa Maria
  • Respect the environment and local culture by following sustainable practices and supporting local businesses
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 18-59
1
Childs
Age 3-10
0
Infants
Age 0-2
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available

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