Santa Maria’s most rewarding tours pack authentic Cape Verdean experiences into well-organized itineraries. The private full-day excursion to Murdeira and the stunning Buracona Blue Eye (£126.66) stands out for its flexibility and crowd-free timing. Budget travelers will appreciate the small-group highlights tour – it includes lunch and hits all the must-sees without breaking the bank.
The island buggy adventure is a personal favorite, combining just the right mix of desert exploration and local encounters. For culture buffs, the market and food tours offer genuine connections with islanders while sampling regional flavors.
Let’s explore these top-rated Sal Island adventures in detail.
Key Points
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For an immersive cultural experience, consider the City Tour & Cuscuz Tasting, which offers a 2-hour exploration of local markets and traditional cuisine.
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Explore the natural wonders of Sal Island on the Full-Day Private Tour, covering highlights like the Murdeira village, Salinas salt baths, and Buracona (Blue Eye).
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Enjoy the island’s vibrant nightlife with the Santa Maria Nightlife Tour, which provides a 2.5-hour exploration of the local bars and dance scene.
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Embark on an adventurous 4×4 Island Tour to experience the Viana desert, Cabo de Santa Maria shipwreck, and Santa Monica beach.
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For a more relaxed sightseeing experience, the Santa Maria City Tour offers a 6-hour excursion showcasing the salt flats, villages, and natural attractions.
The Best Sal Island Private Tour
Travelers seeking a comprehensive and immersive exploration of Sal Island in Cape Verde can opt for the full-day private tour. Priced at £126.66 per group (up to 2 participants), this 6-hour excursion promises a well-rounded experience.
The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel or apartment, followed by visits to the charming Murdeira village, the captivating Salinas salt baths, and the breathtaking Buracona, home to the mesmerizing Blue Eye. Guests will also have the opportunity to spot lemon sharks at Parda Bay and explore the desert mirage in Espargos.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as entrance fees to the Salinas, Blue Eye, and Shark Bay. Visitors are advised to bring comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, and sun protection.
While pets aren’t allowed, guests are encouraged to bring their own crocs for the shark viewing experience. The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments, recent surgeries, or babies under 1 year.
Read our full review: The Best Sal Island Private Tour Review
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Private Tour: Explore the Island of Sal in 1 Full Day Tour
Exploring the diverse wonders of Sal Island in Cape Verde can be achieved through a comprehensive private tour.
The Guided Full-Day Highlights Tour with Lunch is a popular option, covering top attractions in 6 hours with a small group and pickup service. Priced at $60.67 per person, this tour provides an immersive experience, visiting sites like the Salt Mine, Natural Pool, and Shark Bay.
Travelers can also embark on an Island Experience Tour, a 7-hour small-group excursion covering the island’s highlights for $39.08 per person. With 4.9 stars from 1,864 reviews, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Sal.
For a more adventurous approach, the Desert Adventure on a 500cc or 1000cc Buggy allows visitors to explore the island’s off-road terrain for $113.12 per person.
Read our full review: Private Tour: Explore the Island of Sal in 1 Full Day Tour Review
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Sal: Small Group Island Tour & Lunch With a Local Family
This small-group tour of Sal Island provides travelers with a well-rounded introduction to the diverse landscapes and local culture of Cape Verde.
Over the course of 6 hours, guests will visit several highlights, including the Murdeira nature reserve, the arts and crafts market in Palmeira, the natural pools of Buracona, and the salt pans of Pedra de Lume.
The highlight is a homemade lunch with a local family in Espargos, offering an authentic taste of Cape Verdean cuisine and hospitality.
Throughout the day, the tour includes opportunities to engage with locals, learn about their way of life, and explore the contrasts between the island’s natural beauty and pockets of poverty.
Priced from $87.41 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, a guided experience, and a 1-course meal.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this small-group adventure is a convenient and immersive way to discover the charm of Sal Island.
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Santa Maria: Island Nightlife Guided Tour With Pickup
Though Santa Maria offers a wealth of daytime activities, the island truly comes alive at night, as this guided nightlife tour reveals.
Lasting 2.5 hours, the Santa Maria: Island Nightlife Guided Tour With Pickup takes guests on an immersive exploration of the island’s vibrant nightlife scene. With pickup service available, the small-group tour visits popular bars, clubs, and other nightlife hotspots, providing an insider’s perspective on Santa Maria’s after-dark atmosphere.
Along the way, the knowledgeable guide shares insights into the local culture and traditions that shape the nightlife experience. Rated 5 out of 5 stars by 12 reviewers, this tour is a great way for visitors to discover Santa Maria’s lively nightlife.
Whether you’re looking to dance the night away, sample local cocktails, or simply soak up the electric energy of the island after dark, this guided tour is an excellent choice.
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Boa Vista Full Day 4×4 Island Tour With Beachfront Lunch
Visitors to Boa Vista can embark on a comprehensive 4×4 island tour that showcases the island’s diverse landscapes and cultural highlights. Priced at $97.69 per person, the full-day excursion lasts approximately 4 hours and is led by an English-speaking local guide.
The tour includes hotel pickup and explores the Viana desert, featuring dramatic sand dunes, as well as the iconic Cabo de Santa Maria shipwreck, a prominent landmark.
Travelers will also visit Povoaçao Velha, the oldest settlement on the island, and interact with locals. The tour culminates at the stunning Santa Monica beach, renowned for its 15km stretch of pristine white sand.
A delightful traditional Cape Verdean lunch is served at a beachfront restaurant, rounding out the immersive experience. With flexible booking options and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this 4×4 tour offers an excellent way to discover the natural wonders and cultural richness of Boa Vista.
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Santa Maria: Scenic Segway Tour With Guide
For travelers seeking a unique and eco-friendly way to explore the desert and beaches of Cape Verde, the Santa Maria Scenic Segway Tour offers an exceptional experience. Priced from $30.85 per person, this 45-minute tour is limited to just 4 participants, ensuring personalized service.
Guests can choose from English, French, Italian, Spanish, or Portuguese guides, who’ll lead the group along a route through bicycle lanes, off-road terrain, and to the stunning Ponta Preta beach.
The tour begins with a safety briefing and equipment provision, including a helmet and reflective jacket. Participants will have the opportunity to ride along the white sandy shore and take in the scenic views.
The small group size makes this tour suitable for all ages and skill levels. Inclusions such as hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as souvenir photos, add to the convenience and value.
With an overall rating of 4.6/5 from 10 reviews, the Santa Maria Scenic Segway Tour is a must-try for visitors to Cape Verde.
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Santa Maria: Stand-Up Paddle Tour
Adventurous travelers can embark on a thrilling Stand-Up Paddle Tour in the picturesque bay of Santa Maria, Cape Verde. The tour, priced from €34.00 per person, lasts 1.5 hours and is limited to just 4 participants, ensuring personalized attention from the qualified instructor.
The tour provides all necessary equipment, including paddleboards, paddles, wetsuits, sea shoes, and life jackets if needed. Participants must be able to swim in deep water, as the activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women or non-swimmers.
During the tour, explorers will enjoy scenic views of the local ocean life and the summer breeze, while receiving guidance and coaching to enhance the experience.
With a flexible booking policy and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this stand-up paddle tour is an excellent choice for those seeking a unique and relaxing way to experience the beauty of Santa Maria.
The tour has received glowing reviews, with participants praising the stunning scenery, quality of instruction, and friendly guides.
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Santa Maria City Tour & Cuscuz Tasting With a Local Family
What better way to take in the local culture of Santa Maria, Cape Verde than through a 2-hour city tour and cuscuz tasting with a welcoming family? This tour provides an authentic experience, allowing visitors to explore the vibrant market, learn about traditional ingredients, and savor the delectable cuscuz and fidjos.
The itinerary also includes visits to picturesque beaches, the salt pans, and local shops, offering a well-rounded introduction to the town’s highlights.
Priced at Kč 885 per person, this small-group tour (limited to 10 participants) ensures a personalized experience with an expert guide fluent in English, French, and Portuguese.
With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as liability insurance, the tour delivers exceptional value. Reviews praise the knowledgeable guide and the overall experience, with a 4.8/5 rating based on 24 customer evaluations.
Whether you’re interested in culture, cuisine, or coastal scenery, this Santa Maria city tour is a must-do activity during your Cape Verde vacation.
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The Best Full Day Sal Island Tour
Travelers seeking a comprehensive introduction to the captivating island of Sal in Cape Verde will find the “The Best Full Day Sal Island Tour” an excellent choice. Priced at Kč 1,467 per person, this 6-hour tour offers a diverse itinerary, covering the island’s salt flats, charming villages, and natural wonders.
Pickup is conveniently provided from Santa Maria’s Melia and RIU hotels, and the group size is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.
Highlights include exploring the renowned Kite Beach, witnessing the Fata Morgana mirage in Espargos, and marveling at the captivating Blue Eye in Buracona. Guests can also swim in the crystal-clear waters of Parda Bay and splash in the unique salt lake at Salinas.
A local lunch in Palmeira is available for an additional fee. While the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, it promises an engaging mix of scenic drives, cultural insights, and opportunities to encounter marine life.
With a customer rating of 3.7/5, this tour is recommended for couples, friends, solo travelers, and families alike.
Read our full review: The Best Full Day Sal Island Tour Review
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Postcards of Boa Vista 4×4 Tour With Shipwreck & Local Lunch
For those seeking an immersive 4×4 adventure beyond the beaches of Boa Vista, the “Postcards of Boa Vista 4×4 Tour with Shipwreck & Local Lunch” offers an engaging and comprehensive exploration of the island’s northern highlights.
Priced at $81.24 per person, this 8-hour tour allows you to discover the local villages, sample Cape Verdean delicacies, and visit a notable shipwreck landmark.
Led by an expert guide with deep cultural knowledge, the tour includes a visit to the Wildlife Biodiversity Centre and a local goat farm, where you’ll learn about marine life and traditional cheese production.
You’ll also enjoy a lunch at a family-owned restaurant in Fundo das Figueiras.
With an exceptional 5-star rating based on 2 reviews, this tour promises a well-rounded experience showcasing Boa Vista’s natural and cultural wonders.
Offering free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, this tour is a must-do for those seeking an authentic Cape Verdean adventure.
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Santa Maria: Local Markets and Street Art Walking Tour
Enjoy the vibrant heart of Santa Maria on this captivating “Local Markets and Street Art Walking Tour.”
Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this 2-hour exploration invites you to discover the island’s pulsating cultural scene.
Weave through bustling markets, where locals sell fresh produce, handcrafted wares, and traditional Cape Verdean delicacies.
Marvel at the colorful murals and striking street art that adorn the walls, reflecting the island’s rich heritage and creative spirit.
Gain insider knowledge about the stories behind these captivating artworks and the talented artists who created them.
This small-group tour, with a maximum of 12 participants, ensures an intimate and personalized experience.
Priced at $30.85 per person, it’s a fantastic way to learn about the vibrant culture and authentic charm of Santa Maria.
With a 4.8-star rating from 104 reviews, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to truly connect with the heart and soul of this enchanting destination.
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Santa Maria: Salt Mine, Natural Pool, and Shark Bay Tour
Discover the natural wonders of Santa Maria on this captivating 6-hour excursion. The Salt Mine, Natural Pool, and Shark Bay Tour offers an opportunity to explore the island’s diverse landscapes, from the renowned Kite Beach to the serene Palmeira Village.
Set out on a small-group adventure, limited to just 8 participants, and learn about the beauty of Cape Verde. Witness the unique seawater evaporation process at the Salt Mines, where you can float in the medicinal salt water.
Capture stunning photographs at the Miragem, a scenic area perfect for creative shots. Venture underground to the Blue Eye Cave, marveling at the sunlight reflections.
Encounter lemon sharks in the shallow waters of Lemon Shark Bay, and savor the local cuisine in the charming Palmeira Village.
With round-trip transportation, liability insurance, and knowledgeable guides, this tour provides a comprehensive experience showcasing the best of Santa Maria. Priced at $35.99 per person, it’s a must-do activity for nature enthusiasts visiting Cape Verde.
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Sal: Espargos City Tour, Local Life and Cape Verde Tapas
What better way to explore the local culture of Sal than the Espargos City Tour, Local Life, and Cape Verde Tapas experience?
This 2.5-hour tour takes visitors on a guided journey through the historic center of Espargos, showcasing the town’s vibrant street art and local way of life. Along the way, guests will visit a local café to sample typical Cape Verdean snacks and aperitifs, and take in panoramic views of the town from a scenic viewpoint.
The tour includes pickup from various locations across Sal, ensuring convenience for participants. Multilingual guides provide valuable insights, enhancing the culture.
With an overall rating of 4.8/5 from 104 reviews, this experience is praised for its knowledgeable and hospitable guides, as well as the quality of the food and cultural offerings.
Whether you’re seeking an authentic taste of Sal or simply wanting to explore the local charm, this tour is an excellent choice.
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Half Day 4×4 Tour With Viana Desert and Villages
Venturing beyond the vibrant streets of Espargos, the Half Day 4×4 Tour with Viana Desert and Villages offers an exhilarating escape into the rugged landscapes of Boa Vista. Priced at $43.19 per person, this four-hour excursion whisks travelers through the Viana desert in a 4×4 safari, showcasing the island’s captivating natural beauty.
Highlights include visiting the charming village of Rabil and the Church of Saint Roque, where travelers can savor Cape Verde’s national dish, catchupa stew. The tour also explores the quaint Povoação Velha village and provides free time at the scenic Santa Monica beach, with an opportunity to try sandboarding.
Guided by an expert local with extensive knowledge of the region, the tour offers unique cultural insights, including a visit to a ceramic factory showcasing artisanal crafts. Travelers can also engage in souvenir shopping at the colorful shops of Povoação Velha and Rabil.
With a 4.6/5 rating based on 5 reviews, this tour promises an immersive and memorable experience.
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Sal Island: Guided Full-Day Highlights Tour With Lunch
Embarking on the Sal Island: Guided Full-Day Highlights Tour with Lunch allows travelers to enjoy the diverse landscapes and cultural tapestry of this captivating Cape Verdean island.
With a price of $60.67 per person and a duration of 6-7 hours, this small-group tour (limited to 10 participants) offers a comprehensive exploration of Sal’s top attractions, including the Murdeira nature reserve, the fishing village of Palmeira, and the awe-inspiring Blue Eye in Buracona.
Participants will also have the opportunity to swim with lemon sharks at Shark Bay and float in the world’s second saltiest water at Pedra de Lume.
The tour includes pickup and drop-off, transportation, a guided tour, lunch, and entrance fees.
With an overall rating of 4.7/5 based on 297 reviews, this tour provides excellent value for money and is praised for its knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and immersive cultural experiences.
Read our full review: Sal Island: Guided Full-Day Highlights Tour With Lunch Review
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Santa Maria: Guided Snorkeling Shipwreck and Reef Tour
This Santa Maria: Guided Snorkeling Shipwreck and Reef Tour allows travelers to explore the vibrant marine life and sunken wrecks around the picturesque town of Santa Maria in Cape Verde.
The 2-hour tour, offered in multiple languages, takes participants snorkeling at sites like the Bolama Wreck, Dunas Bikini, and Farol. During the tour, they’ll have the chance to spot rays, turtles, coral, tropical fish, and moray eels.
Safety is a priority, with a professional guide providing a briefing and assistance. Snorkeling gear, wetsuits, and vests are provided. However, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 8, non-swimmers, or those with mobility issues.
With a 4.3/5 rating based on 489 reviews, the tour offers great value, praised for its marine life sightings and transportation options.
Travelers should bring swimwear and a towel, and note that belongings may get wet on the Zodiac Rib boat.
Read our full review: Santa Maria: Guided Snorkeling Shipwreck and Reef Tour Review
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Espargos: Guided Sal Island City Tour
Cape Verde’s Sal Island is home to the bustling city of Espargos, offering travelers a chance to enjoy the local culture and explore its vibrant streets.
The Espargos City Tour provides a 4-hour guided experience, priced from €33.33 per person, with pickup included from designated meeting points.
Visitors can discover Espargos’ unique architecture and landmarks, such as the Church of São José, while learning about the city’s history and culture from knowledgeable local guides.
The tour also includes a visit to the nearby town of Santa Maria, renowned for its pristine beaches and rich history. During the free time in Santa Maria, travelers can relax and further explore the local offerings.
The tour is available in multiple languages and can be customized based on group size and preferences.
With an overall rating of 4.4/5 and positive feedback highlighting the knowledgeable guides and informative experiences, the Espargos City Tour is an excellent way to explore the heart of Sal Island’s cultural and historical treasures.
Read our full review: Espargos: Guided Sal Island City Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Book a Private Tour for a Solo Traveler?
To book a private tour as a solo traveler, contact local tour companies directly. They’ll work with you to customize an itinerary and provide a private guide to ensure a personalized experience that meets your interests and needs.
What Is the Best Way to Explore the Local Culture?
For an immersive cultural experience, they can join a walking tour led by a local guide. They’ll learn about the traditions, cuisine, and daily life of the community while supporting small businesses.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Suit My Interests?
Yes, most tour operators in Santa Maria, Cape Verde allow you to customize the itinerary to suit your interests. This gives you the flexibility to focus on the aspects of local culture that fascinate you the most.
Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?
Yes, many tour operators offer discounts or package deals. Travelers can often save by booking multiple tours or activities together. Be sure to inquire about any special offers or bundled pricing when planning your itinerary.
How Does the Weather Affect the Tours Throughout the Year?
The weather can significantly impact tours throughout the year. During the dry season, tours are typically unaffected, but heavy rains in the wet season may disrupt outdoor activities. Travelers should check forecasts and plan accordingly to ensure the best experience.
The Sum Up
Santa Maria in Cape Verde offers a variety of exciting tours that allow visitors to explore the island’s stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and lively nightlife. From private tours to group excursions, there’s something for all. Whether you want to discover hidden gems, enjoy a delicious local lunch, or go snorkeling, these top-rated tours provide an unforgettable experience in this captivating destination.