Santa Maria , Cabo Verde

Horse Riding in Sal Island - Cabo Verde

Active

(514 reviews)

1h - 2h

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

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Uncover Sal Island on horseback with a savvy guide.

As an experienced rider, you will find happiness on horseback at the highest level. As a beginner, you are warmly welcome by our gentle horses.

Ride along the white sandy beaches of Sal island, wander through the Salt Mines and leave your traks on the sandy desert.

All the rides start and finish at our stables, where you can meet our horses and get familiar with them before you start riding.

Small-group format with multiple guides on horseback ensures a personalized experience.

Hotel transfer service (pick up & drop off), Helmets and Insurance are included in the prices.

Comprehensive Safety Briefing prior the Ride.

Available options

Kite Beach Short Trail

Pickup included

Salt Mines Trail

1 hr Riding tour at the Salt Mines<br/>Pickup included

Kite Beach Salt Mines & Desert

2 hr Ride at the Kite Beach, at the Salt Flats and through the Desert<br/>Pickup included

Kite Beach & Salt Mines Trail

1.5 hr Ride at the Kite Beach & at the Salt Mines<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Use of bum bags

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Use of lockers

Professional guide

Use of helmet

Local taxes

Insurance

Detailed itinerary

Meet our driver at the reception for the transfer to the stables set into the Botanical Gardens Viveiro.

At the riding centre lockers will be at your disposal to leave your belongings and CE certified riding helmets will be given to you prior the ride (mandatory).

The group of max 8 riders will be lead by several guides on horseback (1:2 ratio) to make sure that the ride will be tailored on your respective riding skills.

Now the adventure can start!

Leave your tracks on the sand dunes and you will arrive at the "Big Salt Mines of Santa Maria".

If you are taking part on the 1,5h or the 2h trails, you will leave the Salt Flats behind and you will head up to Kite Beach.

An endless golden sand beach trek awaits you and the most experienced riders will have the chance to gallop through the surf. Less experienced riders or those who just want to relax and enjoy the landscape will ride gently along the shore at walking gait with the assistance of the guides.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

31 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

483 reviews

5★

447

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Weight limit: 90kg per participant

Important notes

Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical condition

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time

Maximum weight allowance for participants is 90kg.

Weight assessments may be conducted to ensure the welfare of our horses and the safety of all participants. Please kindly remember that if a guest exceeds the maximum weight limit, regrettably, we won't be able to provide a refund

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