From Praia: Discover Santiago Island in 1 Day
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From Praia: Discover Santiago Island in 1 Day

Active
(53 reviews)
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This tour was created for travelers with a short stay on the island, and seeks to maximize the places to visit on the island in a day trip, a mix of history, gastronomy, culture, and beautiful landscapes of the island's interior with breathtaking valleys and mountains and white sandy beaches.

Available options

With German tour guide

Pickup included

Shared Group

Pickup included

What's included

Pickup and drop off
All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
Certified Tour Guide
Liability inssurance

Detailed itinerary

1

Pick-up from your accommodation in Praia. If your hotel is not listed, please send us a message with its name.

2

Make a photo stop in São Domingos and the green valley of Órgãos. Enjoy dramatic views of the volcanic mountains and learn from your guide about subsistence agriculture in Cape Verde.

3

Pico de Antónia Viewpoint – Aproveite a incrível vista do Pico de Antónia, a montanha mais alta da ilha, com impressionantes 1.394 metros de altitude.

4

Visit the famous Assomada Market, a typical African market. Explore local products such as tropical fruits and vegetables grown by the community. If you wish, you can also purchase souvenirs to remember your trip – a true cultural immersion. If time allows, visit the town center as well, including the City Hall, Central Square, and the Church.

5

Make a photo stop at 800 meters above sea level. Enjoy panoramic views of the Principal Valley and learn about the island’s fauna and flora from your professional guide.

6

Visit Tarrafal Beach and take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the bay, or simply stroll along the soft white sands of the island’s most popular beach. Enjoy some time for lunch at a local restaurant and savor the region’s traditional cuisine.

7

As you reach Calheta, enjoy a scenic drive (With stops) along one of the island’s most beautiful coastal roads. Admire sweeping ocean views and pass through picturesque fishing villages, where traditional life by the sea can still be seen today.

8

Pedra Badejo, here you will admire one of the greenest valleys on the island, home to the country’s largest production of banana and coconut palms. If you wish, you can even buy fresh coconut water or other local fruits directly from the farmers. After this stop, you will be comfortably dropped off at your hotel.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide
DE PT EN FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6
21 reviews
5★
16
4★
4
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor 4.9
32 reviews
5★
29
4★
2
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

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 12-99
1
Childs
Age 3-11
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 12
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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