Exploring Sal Island reveals a handful of standout tours that make perfect sense for smart travelers. This Cape Verdean gem shines brightest through small-group excursions to its key sights – places like Santa Maria’s colonial core and the otherworldly salt flats that gave the island its name.
The full-day island circuit tours earn our highest marks, offering the best bang for your buck. These combine the mysterious Blue Eye cave formation, rugged Shark Bay, and pristine Kite Beach into one efficient package. Wheelchair-accessible options and family-friendly itineraries make these tours especially practical.
Another winner: cultural tours through fishing villages, where you’ll break bread with locals and taste authentic Cape Verdean dishes. These smaller excursions provide real connections with island life, minus the tourist crowds.
Let’s check out our favorite Sal Island tours that deliver the goods.
Key Points
- Guided full-day tours showcasing Sal Island’s natural wonders and cultural attractions, with a maximum group size of 8 for a personalized experience.
- Unique natural attractions including the Blue Eye, salt flats, natural pools, and opportunities to observe lemon sharks.
- Cultural immersion experiences, such as strolling through the largest city of Espargos and visiting the charming fishing village of Palmeira.
- Highly accessible tours, with wheelchair and stroller-friendly options, as well as knowledgeable local guides praised for their insights.
- Exceptional value for money, with full-day tours priced around $39.83 to $42.80 per person and a 96% recommendation rate for the Half-Day Sal Island Tour.
Half-Day Sal Island Tour With Shark Experience From Santa Maria
For those short on time or visiting Sal Island for the first time, the half-day Sal Island Tour with Shark Experience from Santa Maria offers a rundown of the island’s highlights.
With 76 reviews and a 96% recommendation rate, this small-group tour (maximum 15 people) has earned a Badge of Excellence for providing a personalized experience.
The tour hits key port towns like Palmeira, Murdeira, and Espargos, as well as natural wonders such as the Burracona pools, Pedra de Lume volcano, and Terra Boa mirage. Guests can also relax at the picturesque Ponta Preta beach.
Entrance fees to the Buracona and Salinas Pedra de Lume sites are included. Complementing the tour’s sightseeing are hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, and the opportunity to purchase souvenirs and photos.
The experience starts at 9 AM and ends back at the meeting point. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a Lowest Price Guarantee, this tour provides excellent value for first-time visitors to Sal Island.
Read our full review: Half-Day Sal Island Tour With Shark Experience From Santa Maria Review
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Sal Island: Guided Historical and Cultural Tour
Explore Sal Island’s captivating history and vibrant culture on this 4-hour guided tour. Priced from $83.84 per person, this excursion offers a comprehensive look at the island’s highlights, including the Pedra de Lume, Salinas de Pedra de Lume, and the Amílcar Cabral International Airport.
Discover the unique salt lake inside a volcanic caldera, a UNESCO indicative site, and learn about the island’s salt industry. Visit Santa Maria to explore historical sites, shop for local handicrafts, and savor local flavors with a refreshing juice and an aperitif.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, a licensed local guide, liability insurance, a baby seat, and snacks and drinks.
It’s not suitable for wheelchair users, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring necessary items like sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers a flexible and immersive way to experience the rich history and culture of Sal Island.
Read our full review: Sal Island: Guided Historical and Cultural Tour Review
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Salgadinho Hug – Sal Island Tour
What better way to experience the enchanting island of Sal than with the Salgadinho Hug – Sal Island Tour? This highly-rated tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the island’s natural wonders and cultural highlights.
With a maximum of 20 travelers, the tour provides a personalized experience led by a professional and knowledgeable guide.
The tour starts at 9 am and includes transportation options, with pickup available from the Praia Santa Maria or your hotel/apartment. Accessibility is a priority, with the tour being wheelchair and stroller friendly, and infant seats available.
While the tour is generally praised for its interesting sights and enjoyable experience, some travelers have noted concerns about delays in pickup and hidden costs for certain attractions.
The host has acknowledged this feedback and committed to improving the experience.
Read our full review: Salgadinho Hug – Sal Island Tour Review
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Sal: Lemon Shark Bay and Pedra De Lume Salt Lakes Tour
Visitors seeking a deeper connection with Sal’s natural wonders can embark on the captivating Sal: Lemon Shark Bay and Pedra de Lume Salt Lakes Tour. Priced from Kč 872 per person, this 3-hour excursion offers an immersive experience in the island’s diverse ecosystems.
Participants can get up close with baby lemon sharks, float in the salty natural pool at Pedra de Lume, and learn about the role of these fascinating creatures and the significance of the salt mines.
Guided by experts, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, protective shoes, and a Salinas ticket. Reviewers have praised the opportunity for exhilarating interaction with sharks and the stunning scenery of the salt lakes, giving the tour an impressive 4.1/5 rating.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a “reserve now, pay later” option, the Sal: Lemon Shark Bay and Pedra de Lume Salt Lakes Tour presents a compelling reason to explore Sal’s natural marvels.
Read our full review: Sal: Lemon Shark Bay and Pedra De Lume Salt Lakes Tour Review
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Snorkeling Tour
Travelers seeking to enjoy Sal’s vibrant marine life can embark on the captivating Snorkeling Tour. Priced at $40.66 per person, this 3.9-rated experience takes participants on an underwater adventure in the waters off Sal, Cape Verde.
With a minimum age requirement of 8 years old and a maximum group size of 20 travelers, the tour includes the use of snorkeling equipment, snacks, and bottled water.
The tour’s meeting point is at the Aquarium dive center or Farol dive center in Santa Maria, and free hotel transfers are available for those staying more than 10 minutes away.
While the activity isn’t wheelchair accessible and is unsuitable for individuals with serious medical conditions, the tour company provides a safety briefing and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
Reviews of the Snorkeling Tour are generally positive, with highlights including professional guides, vibrant marine life, and notable sightings of turtles and sharks.
However, some customers have reported limited marine life and a deviation from the advertised sites.
Read our full review: Snorkeling Tour Review
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Sal Discovery: A Guided Small Group Island Tour
For those seeking a comprehensive exploration of Sal, the Sal Discovery: A Guided Small Group Island Tour offers an immersive 6-7 hour experience. Priced from $4611 per person, this small group tour (limited to 10 participants) showcases the island’s natural wonders and cultural highlights.
You’ll visit Murdeira Bay, Palmeira, Buracona, Espargos, Shark Bay, and Pedra de Lume, with activities ranging from swimming in natural pools to floating in a volcanic crater.
The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, a licensed expert guide, and liability insurance. Participants can look forward to engaging with local culture, discovering Cape Verdean cuisine, and even interacting with lemon sharks.
With positive reviews highlighting the knowledgeable guides and memorable experiences, this tour provides an excellent way to deeply explore the enchanting island of Sal.
Travelers should note the minimum group size of 2 and bring appropriate attire and gear for the varied activities.
Read our full review: Sal Discovery: A Guided Small Group Island Tour Review
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Segway Tour of Santa Maria
What better way to explore the charming town of Santa Maria than by gliding effortlessly on a Segway? The Segway Tour of Santa Maria offers a unique and exhilarating way to discover this beautiful Cape Verdean destination.
With a 4.8/5 star rating and 95% recommendation from travelers, this tour is a must-do activity. Lasting 1.5 hours, the tour takes you through the scenic streets, stopping at the picturesque Ponta Preta beach.
Suitable for all skill levels, the personalized guidance of a friendly local ensures you make the most of your Segway experience. Included in the starting price of $32.10 per person are all taxes, fees, and a souvenir photo to remember your adventure.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s an excellent choice for families and groups. Just be sure to meet the weight requirements and have no serious medical conditions.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, booking this top-rated Segway tour is a hassle-free way to explore the enchanting town of Santa Maria.
Read our full review: Segway Tour of Santa Maria Review
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Sal: Half-Day Tour Around the Island
A comprehensive half-day tour around Sal Island provides visitors with an immersive exploration of Cape Verde’s natural wonders.
The tour, priced from Kč 4,015 for up to 4 participants, offers a 4-hour guided adventure showcasing the island’s diverse landscapes and marine life.
Highlights include snorkeling in Murdeira Bay, discovering the natural swimming pool and Blue Eye at Buracona, and experiencing the mesmerizing mirage effect at Terra Boa.
Guests can also stroll through the largest city, Espargos, to enjoy the local culture and cuisine.
The tour culminates with a relaxing swim in the salt flats of Salinas de Pedra Lume, located in a volcano crater.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as all entry fees included, this comprehensive tour provides an exceptional value.
Offered in multiple languages, the knowledgeable guides receive stellar reviews, ensuring an unforgettable experience for visitors to Sal Island.
Read our full review: Sal: Half-Day Tour Around the Island Review
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Sal Island: Guided Full-Day Highlights Tour With Lunch
Travelers exploring the captivating island of Sal can embark on a guided full-day highlights tour that showcases the island’s stunning natural wonders and cultural attractions.
The tour visits iconic destinations like Santa Maria, Kite Beach, Murdeira Bay, and Shark Bay, led by a knowledgeable professional guide and driver. With a maximum of 8 travelers, the experience offers a personalized and intimate exploration of the island.
Included in the tour are private transportation, a delicious lunch with a choice of fish or meat, and hotel pick-up and drop-off.
Guests can also enjoy additional experiences, such as renting water shoes for 3€ and visiting the natural pools of Buracona (3€) and the salt mines of Pedra de Lume (5€).
The tour is available in multiple languages, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience for all participants.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family, this guided tour is an excellent way to discover the best of Sal Island.
Read our full review: Sal Island: Guided Full-Day Highlights Tour With Lunch Review
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Murdeira: Sal Island Nature Reserve and Fishing Village Tour
Enjoy the natural wonders and vibrant fishing culture of Sal Island’s Murdeira region with this captivating 6-hour tour.
Explore the scenic Murdeira Bay, visit the charming fishing village of Palmeira, and take a dip in the refreshing waters of Buracona and the Pedra de Lume salt pans.
Along the way, you’ll witness the mesmerizing Blue Eye Cave and have the chance to observe the gentle lemon sharks in Shark Bay.
Enjoy a delicious lunch break in Espargos, and take in the breathtaking landscapes that make Sal Island a true paradise.
With limited group sizes, professional Portuguese, French, and English-speaking guides, and a flexible cancellation policy, this tour offers an immersive and memorable experience.
Discover the natural wonders, rich culture, and local insights that make Sal Island a must-visit destination.
Don’t miss this opportunity to create lasting memories in this captivating corner of Cape Verde.
Read our full review: Murdeira: Sal Island Nature Reserve and Fishing Village Tour Review
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Full Day Sal Island Tour in Santa Maria
This full-day tour invites visitors to discover the captivating sights and vibrant local culture of Sal Island, starting from the scenic coastal town of Santa Maria.
With a 92% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, the tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the island’s natural wonders and unique attractions.
Priced at $42.80 per person, the tour includes private transportation, a delicious local lunch, and all necessary entry fees.
Participants can choose to be picked up from their preferred location, making the experience seamless.
The tour is accessible to wheelchair users, stroller-pushers, and those traveling with service animals, ensuring an inclusive experience.
Operating daily from 9 AM to 4 PM, the tour has a maximum of 8 travelers, allowing for a personalized and intimate exploration of Sal Island.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, travelers can book with confidence.
This full-day excursion is the perfect way to take in the natural beauty and cultural richness of Sal Island.
Read our full review: Full Day Sal Island Tour in Santa Maria Review
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Sal: All-Inclusive Salt Lake, Blue Eye and Shark Bay Tour
Visitors to Sal Island can embark on an all-encompassing exploration of the island’s remarkable natural features with the Sal: All-Inclusive Salt Lake, Blue Eye and Shark Bay Tour.
Priced at $4716 per person, this 4-hour excursion offers a diverse range of activities, from floating in the world’s second saltiest water at Pedra de Lume to swimming in the natural pool at Buracona.
Travelers can witness the mesmerizing water illusions at Miragem and observe lemon sharks in their natural habitat at Shark Bay.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, all entrance fees, and transportation with skip-the-line tickets. A local guide provides on-site assistance, ensuring a seamless and informative experience.
With an overall rating of 4.8/5 from over 1,000 reviews, this tour is praised for its flexibility, humor, and insightful information, making it an exceptional value for money.
Read our full review: Sal: All-Inclusive Salt Lake, Blue Eye and Shark Bay Tour Review
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Sal: Island Experience Tour With a Certified Local Guide
The Sal: Island Experience Tour with a Certified Local Guide offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of Sal Island’s diverse attractions and cultural heritage.
This 7-hour tour provides a deep dive into the island’s history, natural wonders, and local way of life. Guests can expect to visit key locations like the salt-producing town of Santa Maria, the renowned Kite Beach, the picturesque fishing port of Palmeira, and the unique Pedra de Lume saline thermal waters.
Along the way, the tour includes photo stops at scenic viewpoints and opportunities to swim in natural pools. With pickup and drop-off service, private transportation, and a knowledgeable local guide, this tour offers exceptional value at just $39.83 to $37.83 per person.
The tour is suitable for most travelers, though it’s not recommended for wheelchair users. This island experience receives stellar reviews for its engaging guides, culture, and diverse activities.
Read our full review: Sal: Island Experience Tour With a Certified Local Guide Review
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Sum Up
Sal Island offers a diverse range of tours for visitors. From half-day excursions to full-day experiences, travelers can explore the island’s natural wonders, cultural heritage, and unique attractions like the Shark Experience and salt lakes. These tours provide an immersive way to discover Sal’s highlights, catering to various interests and preferences. With knowledgeable local guides, travelers can explore the island’s rich history and stunning landscapes.