From Sal Island Blu eye Salt lake Lemon Sharks and Palmeira
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From Sal Island Blu eye Salt lake Lemon Sharks and Palmeira

Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the highlights, history and day-to-day life of Sal and Cape Verdeans with this multi-stop, guided off-road day tour. The route starts in Ponta Preta, the
most beautiful beach on the island where the windsurfing championships are held in February, Murdeira – the island's natural harbor, which is also the turtle mating place
cabeçudas from June to October, Monte Leão – a lion-shaped mountain, the oasis of Fontona, Palmeira – the main port of the island with all its colorful houses, Buracona – with its two natural pools and the teapot's eye, Terra Boa – where you can see the mirage and stop for a bottled drink, the salt flats of the volcano in Pedra de Lume from the top for amazing photos, and possible entry to float in the second saltiest water in the world, Shark watching and return to Santa Maria was on a normal road..

Available options

From Sal Island Blu eye Salt lake Lemon Sharks and Palmeira

Pickup included

What's included

Air-conditioned vehicle
civil inssurance

Detailed itinerary

1

Located on the island of Sal in Cape Verde, Kite Beach is a favoured meeting point for kitesurfing enthusiasts from all over the world. The beach is located to the east of the resort of Santa Maria and is known as a training ground for kitesurfing champions, who perform spectacular aerial acrobatics, ride the waves with skill and show off their acrobatic feats. Kite Beach is a favourite destination not only for its natural beauty, but also for the favourable conditions it offers intermediate and advanced kitesurfers.

2

Murdeira, located on the island of Sal in Cape Verde, is a place that captivates the soul with its natural beauty and tranquillity. This town is particularly well known for its splendid view of Mount Leão, visible from its rocky bay, a picturesque setting that makes Murdeira a fascinating location, ideal for photo shoots. The magnificence of the mountain, even from afar, adds a touch of majesty to the surrounding landscape. This area is perfect for accessing the beach in front with buggies, pickups or quad bikes, offering a unique experience for the adventurous.

3

Espargos, the main city of Sal in Cape Verde, is a captivating destination that travellers should visit. This charming town is known for its vibrant culture, picturesque landscapes and warm hospitality, making it a popular stopover for tourists from all over the world. In this article, we'll explore the main things to do and see in Espargos and why you should add it to your Sal travel itinerary.
Espargos is a melting pot of different cultures, making it a unique destination for travellers interested in immersing themselves in the local way of life. The city is home to several cultural landmarks, such as the Sal Cultural Centre, which hosts various exhibitions and performances showcasing Cape Verdean art, music and dance. You can also visit the local market, where vendors sell handicrafts, textiles and traditional souvenirs that reflect the country's rich cultural heritage.

4

Palmeira is a charming fishing village located in the north-west of the island of Sal, in Cape Verde. Located on the west coast of the island, the village is about 4-5 kilometres west of the island's capital, Espargos, and is well connected by roads that lead to both the island's capital and the towns of Feijoal and Fontona. This picturesque village offers visitors an authentic taste of local Cape Verdean life, with its colourful houses typical of Cape Verdean architecture dotting the landscape and its sandy beaches inviting relaxation under the tropical sun. The beating heart of Palmeira is its lively harbour, which is also Sal's main port. This port is the only one on the island with the capacity to accommodate container ships arriving to supply the island, making Palmeira a vital centre for trade and links with the rest of the world.

5

Buracona, better known as the ‘Blue Eye’, is a natural jewel located on the island of Sal in Cape Verde. This marvellous site is situated in a remote area in the north-west of the island, nestled between volcanic rocks that hang over the ocean, offering a unique natural pool where the colours blend into a visual spectacle that enchants any visitor. The Blue Eye is an underwater cavity which, illuminated by the sun's rays, reveals magical shades of blue and turquoise, making the water crystal clear and creating an extraordinary visual effect reminiscent of the iris of an eye. The panoramic scenery surrounding Buracona is equally captivating. The black volcanic rocks, sculpted by the trade winds and sea waves, frame a chasm approximately 2 metres by 3 metres in diameter, creating a contrast of colours between the black rock and the deep blue waters.

6

Mirage or mirroring is an optical phenomenon that is very common on sunny days, especially on motorways, in desert landscapes or on the high seas. It is an image caused by the deviation of light reflected from an object, i.e. it is a real physical phenomenon (optical illusion) and should not be confused with a hallucination. The mirage can occur under different conditions, causing various types of image of the object. Sunlight travelling towards asphalt suffers refraction due to the temperature gradient of the air layers as it approaches the asphalt.

7

Located on Cape Verde's fascinating Sal Island, Shark Bay, also known as Fejoal Bay, is one of the archipelago's natural wonders. This place is known for its exceptional interaction with lemon sharks, impressive creatures that sail gracefully through the shallow waters of the bay. The experience begins on arrival at the bay, where visitors put on suitable shoes for walking on the beach and, after a few minutes of wading in the shallow waters, can admire the famous lemon sharks on the horizon. These charming predators, between 2 and 3 metres long and weighing around 100 kg, swim placidly close to the shore, offering an unforgettable spectacle to anyone lucky enough to spot them.

8
Stop 8

The Pedra Lume salt flats hold a great surprise. Its muddy waters, due to the mixture of salt and earth, allow visitors to float without any effort, just like in the Dead Sea due to the fact that there is 26 times more salt than in the ‘normal’ sea. This unique and relaxing sensation attracts many tourists to the Salinas de Pedra Lume.

What's not included

Gratuities
Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide
EN IT FR ES

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The tour guide will be waiting for you at the restaurant in the company uniform, bearing the company name and logo, and with a list of the clients' names.

Important notes

we pick up the guest on theirs hotels

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 4-11
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 14
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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