Boavista: Santa Monica beach, cave, sand dunes & shipwreck

Boa Vista , Cape Verde

Boavista: Santa Monica beach, cave, sand dunes & shipwreck

Active

5h - 6h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Enjoy a ride in a certified and air-conditioned vehicle
Take a tour with a local guide who knows the history of the island well
Enjoy a local lunch on the beach and create unforgettable moments
Discover the island with a very small group

Available options

Boavista: Santa Monica beach, cave, sand dunes & shipwreck

Pickup included

What's included

Tour guide

Pickup and drop off in Sal Rei

Liability Insurance

Transportation

Detailed itinerary

Desert of Viana
Huge white sand dunes. With small oases where you will find acacia bushes, palm trees, coconut and date palms. Nature is pure as it should be. The desert of Viana is an extension of the famous Sahara desert, but now on an island in the middle of the Atlantic. A beautiful landscape worth a visit.

Santa Monica Beach
The most beautiful beach in Cape Verde. The beach is very long (18 miles) and deserted. Here you can walk barefoot across the vast, deserted white sand beach and relax from the stress of the cities.

Varandinha beach / sand cave
It is a quiet beach in the southwest of the island of Boa Vista. It is considered a paradise beach as it is crossed by rocks that divide the vast sand into smaller areas.

To an abandoned beach where the shipwreck of the MS Cabo Santa Maria has been docked for more than 50 years. Today it is an important sight and a symbol of Boavista. The rusty cargo ship is located off the enchanting coast, right on Praia de Atlanta beach. Over the years, the sea has gradually dismantled the ship. There is something mysterious about the current state of the shipwreck and the location. Very impressive!

A small village where the locals work with clay ceramics, you will have the opportunity to discover the daily life of the local communities.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Boa Vista

Boa Vista, known as the 'Island of Dunes,' is a picturesque island in the Barlavento group of Cape Verde. It is famous for its stunning beaches, dramatic sand dunes, and rich marine life, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The island offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities.

Top Attractions

Deserto de Viana

Deserto de Viana is a stunning desert landscape with towering sand dunes, offering a unique and otherworldly experience. It's a popular spot for sandboarding and quad biking.

Nature Half day to full day Moderate (activities may require additional fees)

Praia de Santa Maria

Praia de Santa Maria is one of the most beautiful beaches in Cape Verde, with golden sands and crystal-clear waters. It's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beach Half day to full day Free

Estoril Beach

Estoril Beach is a picturesque beach with a natural pool formed by volcanic rocks. It's a great spot for snorkeling and enjoying the island's natural beauty.

Beach Half day Free

Salina Beach

Salina Beach is a tranquil and less crowded beach, perfect for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing experience. The beach is known for its clear waters and beautiful sunset views.

Beach Half day Free

Cruz do Leme

Cruz do Leme is a historic cross that marks the spot where the first settlers arrived on Boa Vista. It's a significant cultural and historical landmark on the island.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Lagoa de Salina

Lagoa de Salina is a saltwater lagoon surrounded by sand dunes and natural vegetation. It's a great spot for birdwatching and enjoying the island's natural beauty.

Nature Half day Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cachupa

A traditional stew made with corn, beans, and various meats or fish. It's often considered the national dish of Cape Verde.

Main Dish Contains meat or fish, may be vegetarian if made without

Canja

A hearty chicken and rice soup, often flavored with vegetables and spices.

Soup Contains chicken, may be vegetarian if made without

Pastel

A deep-fried pastry filled with spiced meat, fish, or vegetables. It's a popular street food in Cape Verde.

Snack Contains meat or fish, may be vegetarian if made without

Morabeza

A refreshing cocktail made with rum, fruit juices, and sometimes coconut milk. It's a popular drink in Cape Verde, symbolizing the local concept of hospitality and warmth.

Drink Contains alcohol, may be made without for a non-alcoholic version

Popular Activities

Sandboarding Quad biking Snorkeling Scuba diving Surfing Sunbathing Swimming Beach walks

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the peak tourist season with ideal weather conditions for beach activities, water sports, and exploring the island's natural beauty. The island is bustling with tourists during this period.

24°C to 28°C 75°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Portuguese
Widely spoken: Cape Verdean Creole (Kriolu)
English: Limited (English is not widely spoken, but some people in tourist areas may speak basic English)

Currency

Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE)

Time Zone

GMT-1 (Greenwich Mean Time minus 1 hour)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe (Boa Vista is generally safe, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.)

Boa Vista is generally safe, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit or isolated areas. Keep valuables secure and be cautious when using ATMs.

Important Precautions:

• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit or isolated areas
• Keep valuables secure and be cautious when using ATMs
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with offers of help or services

Getting there

By air

Rabil Airport • 5 km from the city center

By bus

Boa Vista Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Local buses are an affordable way to get around, but schedules can be irregular and services are limited.

Taxis

Available • Apps:

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Sal Rei Santa Maria Estoril Salina Cruz do Leme Atalanta

Day trips

Deserto de Viana

10 km from the city center • Half day to full day

A stunning desert landscape with towering sand dunes, offering a unique and otherworldly experience. It's a popular spot for sandboarding and quad biking.

Estoril Beach

15 km from the city center • Half day

A picturesque beach with a natural pool formed by volcanic rocks. It's a great spot for snorkeling and enjoying the island's natural beauty.

Lagoa de Salina

20 km from the city center • Half day

A saltwater lagoon surrounded by sand dunes and natural vegetation. It's a great spot for birdwatching and enjoying the island's natural beauty.

Festivals

Festival de Música da Boa Vista • June Carnaval da Boa Vista • February or March (varies by year) Festival de São João • June 23-24

Pro tips

Learn a few basic phrases in Portuguese or Cape Verdean Creole to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Rent a car or use guided tours to explore the island's attractions and natural beauty
Try local dishes and visit local markets for an authentic culinary experience
Respect local customs and traditions, and dress modestly when visiting religious sites
Be cautious of petty crime and scams, especially in tourist areas, and keep valuables secure