Sal island: Secrets of Native Guide All-Inclusive Tour with Lunch
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Sal island: Secrets of Native Guide All-Inclusive Tour with Lunch

Active
(15 reviews)
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

Get out for an adventurous sightseeing tour that’s perfect to discover the desert, the beaches, the hidden treasures of this popular destination and more wilderness. This trip will take you to salt flats of Santa Maria and riding on its surrounding sand dunes before continuing to the white sands of Kite Beach. Get to know Pedra Lume Salt Caldera an extinct volcano filled with salty seawater (The Lake is the second saltiest lake after the Dead Sea, so you really do float much better than any normal sea or lake). In Palmeira at the Pier there are always locals doing fun jumps into the ocean. The fisherman will place the fish on the floor which you can buy.

Enjoy a full day island tour and visit places like Shark bay, Salinas salt lake, Espargos city, Buracona Blue Eye, Kite Beach, Santa Maria, Miragem, Palmeira fisherman village and Murdeira bay. Swim in Salt Lake with your group, and have lunch at a local restaurant before going into the sea to see some lemon sharks.

Available options

French speaking guide

Pickup included

Spanish speaking guide

Pickup included

Portuguese speaking guide

Pickup included

English speaking guide

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off
Entrance fees (3 eur for Buracona blue Eye, 6 eur for Salinas)
All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
Lunch (11 euros per adult, 6 euros per child), delicious fresh fish, meat, pasta and vegetarian options and 1 drink included.
Photos and vídeos taken by the guide
Shark Bay
Swim in saline thermal water and natural pools
Baby seat (free and available on request)

Detailed itinerary

1

Discover the beauty, history and culture of Sal island with an expert local guide.

2

Discover Santa Maria, the most touristic city in Cape Verde. Learn about the history of the city that has transformed itself from salt exploitation into Cape Verde's largest tourist city.

3

Discover Kite Beach and explore its white sand dunes. Kite Beach is one of the best places in the world for kite surfing and where the world kite surfing championships are held in Cape Verde.

4

Admire our main marine reserve in Cape Verde, Murdeira Bay, which has a great diversity of corals and fish and other marine animals, and marvel at the beautiful view from Monte Leão, a real postcard from Sal island.

5

Then we head to the city of Espargos, the island's capital and economic centre, where most of Sal's population is concentrated. Here you can see more of local life.

6

Admire the Mirage to see the fata morgana effect of the water illusions in the desert. The guide will take fun photos, something to remember.

7

Marvel at Buracona, one of the seven wonders of the island of Sal, and if conditions are ideal, swim in its natural pool. You can also admire the natural phenomenon of the blue eye in a cave whenever conditions are ideal. On days when the sea is rougher, admire a fantastic wave show.

8

Visit the fishing village of Palmeira, a simple place where people make their living from fishing and working in the harbour. We can watch the craft boats arrive and see all the activity surrounding the sale of fish. And also walk among the colourful colonial houses and beautiful street art.

9

We do a rest stop where you can have lunch and access the internet.

10

Experience lemon sharks up close in their natural environment.

11

Visit Pedra de lume, the first town in Sal, founded in 1804, to learn about the history and development of the local economy, which began with the export of salt.

You can also see the centuries-old houses, boats and the cable car used to transport the salt.

12
Stop 12

Salinas, the only salt lake inside the caldera of a volcano in the world, with its warm waters, serves to forget the stresses of everyday life. You shouldn't leave the island without bathing in the Salinas thermal waters, where spas, hydromassage and relaxation are available to everyone.

Scientifically, the medicinal action of its salty waters is recognised for its healing, detoxifying and metabolic stimulating power, due to the mineral substances it contains. In popular knowledge, there is an even greater healing power in this water.

The place has a fascinating lake where anyone can relax and float, even if they don't know how to swim, and their skin becomes soft as if they were exfoliating naturally.

What's not included

Water shoes in Shark Bay (bring your own or hire them on site for 2 eur)

Available languages

Guide guide
DE PT EN FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8
11 reviews
5★
9
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 4.8
4 reviews
5★
3
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Baby car seats are available on request, and free of charge.
We make a rest stop where we can have lunch or a snack, a drink and access the internet.
The tour is not recommended for people with reduced mobility.
People under the influence of alcohol cannot take part.

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 12-100
1
Childs
Age 7-11
0
Infants
Age 0-6
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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