Private Tour of Santiago – Discover the Island
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Private Tour of Santiago – Discover the Island

Active
(18 reviews)
8h
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

The trip will be a unique and unforgettable trip, as we provide a high quality product where you can learn a little about the fantasy of the island of Santiago, also with a driver with extensive experience who will ensure that your trip has quality, comfort and safety.

Available options

Private Tour of Santiago – Discover the Island

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation
Return to the hotel
Guarantee a smooth trip

Detailed itinerary

1

D. Maria Pia Lighthouse, also known as Ponta Temerosa Lighthouse or Praia Lighthouse is a Cape Verdean lighthouse located at Ponta Temerosa, on the west side of the port entrance of Praia, the capital of Cape Verde. It is located in the parish of Nossa Senhora da Graça, about 3.5 km SSE from the city, on Santiago Island.

2

We recommend visiting the Assomada Market on Wednesdays or Saturdays, when there is more movement and variety.
In Assomada the market has two floors, selling on the lower floor fruit, vegetables, bread and meat and on the upper clothing and footwear. Even if you're not interested in anything you sell on the first floor, you should go there and look. It is up there that we have a splendid view for the magnificent color and agitation of the main zone. From here we can feel Africa.

3

Serra Malagueta is one of the most attractive tourist landscapes in the interior of Santiago Island. It offers a favorable environment for the practice of rural and adventure tourism.
Sierra Malagueta is one of the highest points on the island of Santiago, rich in endemic species and overlooking exotic landscapes for stunning photos.

4

The course is located three kilometers from the village, in a place (ironically) called Chão Bom. A trip here is absolutely mandatory. As a Portuguese, she was especially interested, since the concentration camp is part of the history of my country. From a dark time, when dictatorship reigned.

What is also called the Slow Death Camp began to receive opponents of the dictatorship of Salazar in 1936. Here 32 prisoners died and many more suffered ills that surely will have marked them for life.

5

Tarrafal Beach is one of the 7 Wonders of the Tarrafal Municipality of Santiago.
It is surely the most beautiful and most visited beach of the island. The beach is white sand, and certainly one of the most paradise of the archipelago, in a bay surrounded by coconut trees.
With bathing options drink coconut water etc.

6

In Ribeira Principal we pass in the middle of a valley with beautiful views of a huge banana plantation it flows completely within the municipality of São Miguel. Its source is in the mountains of Serra Malagueta. It usually flows north through the Principal Valley and joins the Atlantic Ocean near Achada Monte.

7

The main urban center is the City of Calheta (Venice), where are the municipality administration and the main public services. According to INE, in the year 2000 Calheta had 4,967 inhabitants (including Venice and Ponta Verde).

What's not included

Entrance to the Tarrafal Concentration Camp costs 200CVE or €2 for foreign visitors.
The entrance to the D. Maria Pia Lighthouse costs 200 CVE or €2 for foreign visitors.

Available languages

Guide guide
PT EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
5 reviews
5★
5
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 4.5
13 reviews
5★
10
4★
1
3★
1
2★
1
1★
0

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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

Adults
Age 18-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 4
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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