Santa Maria’s best lunch experiences combine authentic Cape Verdean cuisine with guided island exploration. Local family homes and beachfront restaurants serve traditional meals that showcase the islands’ fresh flavors.
Two standout tours deliver memorable dining: The Sal Island Tour pairs a home-cooked meal with cultural insights, while the Boa Vista 4×4 adventure features lunch at a scenic oceanside spot. For a truly local experience, the family restaurant stop during the Postcards of Boa Vista Tour in Fundo das Figueiras hits all the right notes.
Let’s explore the top lunch tours that bring Cape Verde’s food culture to life.
Key Points
- The Sal Island Tour includes a 1-course meal prepared by a local family, offering an authentic Cape Verdean lunch experience in Santa Maria.
- The Boa Vista Full Day 4×4 Tour features a traditional Cape Verdean lunch at a beachfront restaurant, providing a scenic dining setting in the area.
- The Postcards of Boa Vista Tour includes lunch at a family-owned restaurant in Fundo das Figueiras, showcasing local cuisine and hospitality.
- The Guided Full-Day Highlights Tour on Sal includes activities and stops in Santa Maria, but does not explicitly mention a lunch experience.
- While not specified, the tour operators likely have recommendations for excellent local restaurants and eateries in Santa Maria to enjoy a delicious Cape Verdean lunch.
Sal: Small Group Island Tour & Lunch With a Local Family
This half-day tour on the island of Sal offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes and enjoy the local culture. Priced from €85.00 per person, the tour is limited to just 10 participants and lasts for 6 hours, allowing for an intimate and personalized experience.
Highlights of the tour include scenic views, photo stops, and guided visits to Murdeira, Palmeira, Buracona, Espargos, and the Pedra de Lume Salt Pans. The tour also includes a swimming experience in natural pools and the world’s second-saltiest lake.
Guests will have the chance to walk alongside lemon sharks and engage with local culture through music and cuisine, culminating in a 1-course meal prepared by a local family.
The tour’s inclusions, such as hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, expert guides, and liability insurance, make it a convenient and well-rounded experience.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking an authentic and memorable encounter in Cape Verde.
Read our full review: Sal: Small Group Island Tour & Lunch With a Local Family Review
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Boa Vista Full Day 4×4 Island Tour With Beachfront Lunch
Travelers seeking an immersive exploration of Boa Vista’s diverse landscapes will find the Boa Vista Full Day 4×4 Island Tour an unforgettable experience. Priced at $99.73 per person, this 4-hour tour takes adventurers off-road through the island’s lush terrain, including the iconic Viana desert and the Cabo de Santa Maria shipwreck.
Along the way, guests will enjoy a traditional Cape Verdean lunch at a beachfront restaurant and interact with the locals of the remote hamlet of Povoaçao Velha. Led by expert guides with deep knowledge of Boa Vista, the tour promises to showcase the island’s top sights, from the fishing pier in Sal Rei to the stunning Santa Monica beach, recognized as one of the world’s best.
With complimentary cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this 4×4 adventure is a must-do for travelers seeking an immersive and unforgettable experience in Boa Vista.
Read our full review: Boa Vista Full Day 4×4 Island Tour With Beachfront Lunch Review
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Postcards of Boa Vista 4×4 Tour With Shipwreck & Local Lunch
The Postcards of Boa Vista 4×4 Tour with Shipwreck & Local Lunch promises an immersive exploration of the island’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Priced at €79 per person, this 8-hour excursion takes visitors on a journey through northern villages, offering a true flavor of local life.
Highlights include a visit to the village of Rabil for Cape Verdean delicacies, a stop at the iconic Cabo Santa Maria shipwreck, and a tour of Boa Vista’s Wildlife Biodiversity Centre and a local goat farm.
Participants will also enjoy a family-owned restaurant lunch in Fundo das Figueiras and learn about a soap-making project promoting equality.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and flexible booking options, this tour provides an opportunity to take in Boa Vista’s culture, cuisine, and natural wonders, all while benefiting from the expertise of a knowledgeable local guide.
Read our full review: Postcards of Boa Vista 4×4 Tour With Shipwreck & Local Lunch Review
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Sal Island: Guided Full-Day Highlights Tour With Lunch
Exploring the vibrant island of Sal in Cape Verde, the Guided Full-Day Highlights Tour with Lunch offers an immersive experience showcasing the island’s diverse attractions.
Priced at Kč 1,489 per person, the 6-7 hour tour limits group size to 10 participants and provides hotel pickup and drop-off in Santa Maria.
Highlights include floating in the world’s second-saltiest water at Pedra de Lume, encountering lemon sharks in Shark Bay, and discovering local street art in Espargos.
Travelers will also enjoy a delicious Cape Verdean lunch with a main dish and soft drink.
With an overall rating of 4.7/5 from 283 reviews, the tour earns high marks for its knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and excellent value.
Guests are advised to bring water shoes, towels, and sun protection to make the most of opportunities to swim and explore the island’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Sal Island: Guided Full-Day Highlights Tour With Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Average Cost of a Typical Lunch in Santa Maria?
The average cost of a typical lunch in Santa Maria, Cape Verde is around $8-$12 USD. Local restaurants and cafes offer a range of affordable, authentic cuisine, making it easy to find a satisfying midday meal without breaking the bank.
Are There Any Vegetarian or Vegan Lunch Options Available in Santa Maria?
Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan lunch options available in Santa Maria. Many restaurants offer plant-based dishes, catering to the growing demand for meatless cuisine. Diners can find a range of meat-free options, from salads to local veggie-based stews.
How Far in Advance Should I Book a Lunch Experience in Santa Maria?
It’s generally a good idea to book lunch experiences in Santa Maria a few days in advance, as popular spots can fill up quickly. Many restaurants recommend making reservations at least 2-3 days prior to your desired dining time.
Are There Any Dress Code Requirements for the Lunch Experiences?
Most lunch experiences in Santa Maria don’t have strict dress codes, but wearing casual, comfortable attire is generally recommended. Some higher-end establishments may expect guests to dress a bit more formally, so it’s best to check ahead.
What Is the Best Way to Get to the Lunch Venues in Santa Maria?
The best way to get to the lunch venues in Santa Maria is by walking, taking a taxi, or using public transportation like buses. Many venues are within walking distance, but taxis and buses provide convenient options for those who prefer not to walk.
The Sum Up
Cape Verde’s best lunch experiences offer a chance to savor local cuisine and culture. From small group island tours to 4×4 adventures, visitors can enjoy beachfront meals and authentic home-cooked feasts prepared by friendly local families. These tours provide a unique opportunity to take in the island’s traditions and create lasting memories of Cape Verde’s vibrant culinary heritage.