The vibrant market town of Assomada serves as an ideal base for exploring Santiago Island’s cultural treasures and natural wonders. A trio of well-organized tours stands out in this bustling Cabo Verdean hub.
The compact Highlights Tour packs plenty of value, balancing culture with scenery – you’ll weave through historic quarters and sample local delicacies before unwinding at postcard-perfect Tarrafal Beach. But it’s the Full-Day Santiago Island Tour that really shines, offering the richest slice of island life through meaningful local encounters and pristine national park visits.
Cruise passengers particularly appreciate the efficient 8-hour Island Tour, which smartly combines the authentic Assomada market, dramatic Serra Malagueta peaks, and beach time at Tarrafal. Each tour comes with reliable English-speaking guides who know their stuff.
Check out these top tours that showcase the best of Assomada and Santiago Island.
Key Points
- The Assomada City Highlights Tour offers a 7-8 hour small group tour that visits historic landmarks and provides local tastings, with a stop at Tarrafal Beach.
- The Santiago Island Full-Day Tour includes certified guides, access to various sites, and opportunities to interact with locals and savor regional cuisine.
- The Santiago Island Highlights Tour from Praia is a 7-hour tour that showcases Tarrafal beach, São Domingos, Assomada, and Serra Malagueta Natural Park, with a visit to a coconut plantation.
- The Santiago Island Tour is a 5-hour tour that covers cultural and historical sites, natural wonders, and interactions with the Rabelados community.
- The Island Tour for Cruise Guests is an 8-hour tour that includes visits to the Assomada market, the oldest tree, Serra Malagueta National Park, and Tarrafal beach, with a local German-speaking guide.
Assomada City: Highlights Tour
For those seeking to explore the vibrant heart of Assomada, the Assomada City: Highlights Tour offers a comprehensive introduction to the city’s most captivating sights and cultural experiences.
This 7-8 hour small group tour, with pickup included, is highly popular with a 4.7 rating from 85 reviews. Highlights include visits to Santiago Island’s historic landmarks, opportunities to savor local tastings, and a stop at the picturesque Tarrafal Beach.
Priced at $66.84, this tour provides an immersive and well-rounded exploration of Assomada’s rich heritage and natural beauty, making it an excellent choice for those looking to make the most of their time in the city.
Read our full review: Assomada City: Highlights Tour Review
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Santiago Island: Full-Day Tour
The Santiago Island: Full-Day Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the remarkable landscapes, rich history, and local culture of this captivating destination.
Priced at €100.00 per person, the 7-hour tour provides a seamless experience with hotel pickups, certified guides, and access to picturesque stops like São Domingos, São Lourenço dos Órgãos, and the Serra Malagueta Natural Park.
Highlights include interacting with locals, savoring regional cuisine in Tarrafal, and capturing stunning views at Pedra Badejo.
With a flexible cancellation policy and wheelchair accessibility, this tour caters to diverse travelers seeking an authentic Cape Verdean adventure.
Read our full review: Santiago Island: Full-Day Tour Review
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From Praia: Santiago Island Highlights Tour
Departing from the Port of Praia, the Santiago Island Highlights Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the island’s captivating landscapes, rich heritage, and vibrant local culture.
Priced from €90.00 per person, this 7-hour excursion takes travelers to highlights like the beautiful Tarrafal beach, the charming towns of São Domingos and Assomada, and the lush Serra Malagueta Natural Park.
With scenic vistas and a visit to the country’s largest coconut plantation, the tour provides a well-rounded experience.
Travelers can opt for private or small group tours, with pickup and drop-off at the port, comfortable transportation, and an English-speaking guide.
The tour can be booked now with a flexible cancellation policy, making it an attractive choice for those seeking to explore Santiago Island.
Read our full review: From Praia: Santiago Island Highlights Tour Review
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Santiago Island Tour
Travelers seeking to explore Cabo Verde’s largest island can embark on the Santiago Island Tour, priced at $102.83 per person.
The 5-hour tour offers a comprehensive experience, including visits to cultural and historical sites, natural wonders, and local interactions. Highlights include exploring São Domingos City, Assomada City, and the Serra Malagueta Natural Park, as well as engaging with the Rabelados community.
Travelers will appreciate the knowledgeable and friendly guides, who facilitate a deeper understanding of the island’s rich heritage.
With free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option, the Santiago Island Tour is a convenient and immersive way to discover the beauty and culture of Cabo Verde.
Read our full review: Santiago Island Tour Review
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Island Tour Specially Designed for Cruise Guests
Cruise guests visiting Cabo Verde can embark on a specially designed Island Tour starting directly from the Praia port.
The 8-hour tour is limited to a small group of 10 participants and is guided by a local with German-speaking capability.
Guests will explore Assomada market, the oldest tree on the island, Serra Malagueta National Park, and Tarrafal beach.
Lunch is included in the Ribeira di Principal valley.
The tour provides authentic insights into Cabo Verdian life.
Priced at $82.27 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Pickup and drop-off at the port, snacks, and lunch are all included, with no additional costs.
Read our full review: Island Tour Specially Designed for Cruise Guests Review
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The Sum Up
Assomada offers a variety of tours that showcase the city’s highlights and the beauty of Santiago Island. Visitors can choose from full-day tours, highlights tours, and cruises that cater to their interests and preferences. These tours provide an excellent opportunity to explore the island’s natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and unique attractions.