Best of Santiago Island: Cidade Velha, Workshop & Tarrafal Beach Tour

Enjoy the rich tapestry of Santiago Island’s history, culture, and natural beauty with the ‘Best of Santiago Island: Cidade Velha, Workshop & Tarrafal Beach Tour.’ This captivating experience takes you on a journey through the ancient streets of Cidade Velha, showcasing its architectural marvels and storied past. Explore the art of traditional cuisine during a hands-on cooking workshop, before indulging in the refreshing waters of Tarrafal Beach. With hassle-free transportation and an expert guide by your side, this tour promises an unforgettable day – one that will leave you eager to uncover more of Santiago Island’s hidden gems.

This experience made our list of the 16 Best Tours In Praia.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive tour of Santiago Island highlighting its rich history, vibrant culture, and scenic wonders, including Cidade Velha, cooking workshops, and Tarrafal Beach.
• Guided exploration of historical sites like São Filipe Fortress and ancient cathedral ruins, providing insights into the island’s colonial past.
• Hands-on cooking workshop to learn traditional Cape Verdean dishes like Cuscuz and Fidjós, offering a culture experience.
• Convenient hotel transfers and transportation around the island, ensuring a hassle-free and comfortable exploration.
• Opportunity for a refreshing swim at Tarrafal Beach after the day’s activities, complementing the cultural and historical experiences.

Tour Overview

This private tour of Santiago Island, offered by Bu Country Tours, promises to immerse travelers in the island’s rich history and vibrant culture.

Highlights include visits to historic fortresses, ancient cathedral ruins, and the former slave market-turned-fish market. Participants will engage with locals, learn traditional cooking techniques, and enjoy a refreshing swim in the sea.

With hassle-free hotel transfers included, this tour provides a comprehensive and immersive experience of Santiago Island’s top attractions.

From the imposing fortresses to the lively markets, this tour offers a well-rounded exploration of this captivating Cape Verdean destination.

Included in the Tour

Included in the tour are a range of valuable inclusions that enhance the overall experience.

Travelers will enjoy pickup and drop-off at their accommodation in Praia or Cidade Velha, along with transportation around the island. A knowledgeable tour guide will provide insights throughout the day.

Participants will also get to try their hand at a cooking workshop, learning how to prepare local dishes like Cuscuz and Fidjôs. Liability insurance, lunch, and the entrance fee for São Filipe Fortress are also covered.

With these inclusions, the tour offers a comprehensive and immersive experience exploring the highlights of Santiago Island.

Pickup and Transportation

The tour offers convenient pickup and drop-off service at travelers’ accommodations in either Praia or Cidade Velha. Pickup from the airport is not included, but can be arranged for an additional fee. To ensure a smooth experience, guests can select their preferred pickup point or request a custom location by email.

Pickup Location	Included?
Praia Accommodation	Yes
Cidade Velha Accommodation	Yes
Airport	No, additional fee applies
Custom Location	Upon request via email
Drop-off	Included at original pickup location

Throughout the tour, transportation around the island is provided, allowing guests to comfortably explore the highlights without the hassle of driving.

Tour Itinerary and Logistics

The tour starts at 8:30 am, allowing ample time to explore the island’s highlights.

Visitors will be picked up from their accommodations in Praia or Cidade Velha and whisked away on a private tour of Santiago Island.

The day is packed with exciting activities – touring ancient fortresses, wandering through the former slave market (now a bustling fish market), and participating in a hands-on cooking workshop to learn how to make traditional dishes like Cuscuz and Fidjós.

After a delicious lunch, travelers can swim in the refreshing sea.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 8 people and moderate physical fitness is required.

Sandals, towels, and sun protection are recommended.

Highlights of the Tour

Among the highlights of this private tour of Santiago Island is the chance to explore the fortress-like ruins of São Filipe, a former colonial stronghold. Visitors can learn about the island’s tumultuous past and see the remnants of this imposing structure.

Plus, the tour includes a visit to the ancient cathedral ruins and the former slave market, now a bustling fish market. Guests can engage with the local community, participate in a hands-on cooking workshop to learn traditional dishes like Cuscuz and Fidjós, and enjoy a refreshing swim in the nearby sea.

Highlights	Description
Fortresses	Explore the historical ruins of São Filipe Fortress
Cultural Immersion	Engage with locals and participate in a cooking workshop
Scenic Sights	Visit the cathedral ruins and former slave market
Beach Time	Enjoy a swim in the inviting waters of the island

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

Pricing for this private tour of Santiago Island starts from $129.49 per person, with the final cost varying based on group size.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off, transportation, a knowledgeable guide, a cooking workshop, lunch, and entry fees.

Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, which allows them to cancel up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

Reviews for the tour are positive, with a 4.5 rating, though there are no 5-star ratings yet.

Tour Reviews

Travelers have provided a 4.5 rating for this private tour of Santiago Island, though no 5-star reviews have been submitted yet.

Reviewers highlight the engaging interaction with locals and the hands-on cooking workshop as standout experiences. The tour’s inclusion of hotel transfers, transportation, and a knowledgeable guide also earn praise.

Some note the moderate physical fitness required, though the majority find the pace and activities well-suited.

While the number of reviews is limited, the overall feedback indicates a highly enjoyable and immersive exploration of Santiago’s cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Add Extra Activities to the Tour?

Yes, you can likely add extra activities to the tour. The tour provider may offer optional add-ons or be willing to customize the itinerary for an additional fee. It’s best to inquire with them directly about any special requests.

Is There a Discount for Large Groups?

Yes, there are group discounts available for this tour. The price per person decreases as the group size increases, making it more affordable for larger parties. Contact the tour provider for specific group pricing details.

What Is the Maximum Number of Participants?

The maximum number of participants for the tour is 8 travelers, according to the Tour Details section. The tour is designed for a small group size to provide a more personalized experience.

Can I Request a Specific Guide?

You can’t request a specific guide, but the tour company assigns guides to ensure a quality experience. The maximum group size is 8 travelers, so you’ll receive personalized attention from the guide during the tour.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Cooking Workshop?

The tour doesn’t specify any dietary restrictions for the cooking workshop. Guests can likely participate in making the traditional dishes of Cuscuz and Fidj??s regardless of their dietary needs. It’s best to check with the tour operator if you have any special requirements.

The Sum Up

This comprehensive tour of Santiago Island offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy the ancient Cidade Velha, learn to prepare traditional dishes, and unwind at the picturesque Tarrafal Beach. With hassle-free transportation and an expert guide, this tour provides an unforgettable experience that showcases the best of what this captivating island has to offer.