Nestled in the captivating landscapes of Santa Maria, this 6-hour tour invites travelers to embark on an unforgettable adventure. Kite surfing, healing salt waters, and stunning desert vistas set the stage for an immersive experience. But the true gem lies in the opportunity to observe the mesmerizing lemon sharks at Lemon Shark Bay. With a knowledgeable guide by your side and convenient hotel pickup, this tour promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the natural wonders that await. What makes this tour truly unique, however, is the chance to…
Good To Know
- A 6-hour excursion that takes visitors to Kite Beach, salt mines, Miragem desert, and Lemon Shark Bay in Santa Maria.
- Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, 4×4 transportation, knowledgeable guide, and liability insurance for up to 8 participants.
- Offers opportunities to float in medicinal salt water, observe lemon sharks, and explore the stunning Miragem desert landscape.
- Optional fees for shark-watching shoes, lunch, Blue Eye entry, and salt mine entry available.
- Tour not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users; pickup times range between 8:45 AM and 9:15 AM.
Tour Overview
The "Santa Maria: Salt Mine, Natural Pool, and Shark Bay Tour" is a 6-hour excursion that offers visitors a chance to explore the captivating natural wonders of the region.
Priced from $53.35 per person, the tour is limited to 8 participants and provides hotel pickup and drop-off in Santa Maria.
Available in five languages, the tour includes round-trip transportation by 4×4, a knowledgeable guide, liability insurance, and assistance throughout the trip.
Travelers can enjoy the renowned Kite Beach, the salt mines, the stunning Miragem desert scenery, and the chance to observe lemon sharks in Lemon Shark Bay.
With a flexible booking policy and a free cancellation option, this tour promises an unforgettable experience.
Itinerary Highlights
This tour offers a diverse range of captivating stops that showcase the region’s natural wonders.
The first highlight is Kite Beach, renowned for its world-class kite surfing events from October to April.
Next, visitors will explore the mesmerizing salt mines, where they can float in the medicinal salt water and opt for rejuvenating scrub and mud treatments.
The tour then takes guests to the stunning Miragem, a desert landscape ideal for photography.
Inclusion and Optional Fees
Included in the tour price are hotel pickup and drop-off in Santa Maria, round-trip transportation by 4×4, a tour guide, liability insurance, and assistance during the trip. Additional fees for optional activities are as follows:
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Shark-watching shoes | €3 |
| Lunch | Optional |
| Blue Eye entry ticket | €3 |
| Salt Mine entry ticket | €6 |
Participants should bring sunglasses, a towel, a camera, sunscreen, flip-flops, water shoes, shorts, and cash. The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. Pickup times vary by hotel, generally between 8:45 AM and 9:15 AM.
Important Information
Participants should bring sunglasses, a towel, a camera, sunscreen, flip-flops, water shoes, shorts, and cash for the tour.
This Santa Maria excursion isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
Pickup times vary by hotel, typically between 8:45 AM and 9:15 AM.
To ensure an enjoyable experience, consider the following:
- Wear appropriate clothing and footwear for the diverse terrain and activities.
- Bring sufficient water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized.
- Be prepared to pay optional fees for the Blue Eye entry ticket and salt mine access.
- Expect a lively and engaging day, filled with stunning natural wonders and culture.
Customer Reviews
The Santa Maria tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from past participants.
With an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 88 reviews, customers have been highly satisfied with the experience. The transportation and value for money aspects have both been rated 4.4/5, indicating a well-organized and reasonably priced tour.
Travelers have praised the guide’s friendliness and the enjoyable activities at the Blue Eye and Shark Bay. While some concerns were raised about the vehicle condition, the tour’s highlights, including the salt mines and stunning desert scenery, have consistently impressed visitors.
Pickup Locations
Conveniently, the tour offers 11 pickup locations throughout Santa Maria, including popular hotels like Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort, Meliá Llana Beach Resort & Spa, and Hotel Dunas de Sal. This makes it easy for participants to join the tour from their accommodation.
Some of the other pickup points include:
- Odjo d’Agua Hotel
- Hotel Morabeza
- Iberostar Club Boa Vista
- Solana Beach Hotel
With these multiple pickup options, travelers can easily access the tour and begin their adventure exploring the natural wonders of Sal Island.
Key Stops
What truly highlights this captivating tour are the remarkable key stops along the way.
First, you’ll visit Kite Beach, renowned for its thrilling kite surfing and hosting world championships from October to April.
Next, explore the mesmerizing Salt Mines, where you can float in the medicinal saltwater and indulge in optional scrubs and mud treatments.
The tour also takes you to the stunning Miragem, a desert landscape perfect for photography.
Enjoy the natural beauty of the Blue Eye Cave, a 24-meter deep cave with a serene swimming pool.
What to Bring
Packing the right essentials is key to getting the most out of this tour. Visitors should bring:
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Sunglasses to shield their eyes from the bright Cabo Verde sun.
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A towel to dry off after swimming in the natural pool.
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A camera to capture the stunning desert scenery and wildlife.
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Sunscreen to protect their skin during the outdoor activities.
Comfortable clothing like shorts and flip-flops are also recommended.
Those with water shoes will find them useful for exploring the salt mines and Blue Eye cave.
Visitors should also have some cash on hand for optional fees and local purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Suitable for Families With Children?
While the tour involves some activities that may not be suitable for young children, families with older kids could find it an engaging and educational experience. However, the tour may not be ideal for families with mobility-impaired members or young kids.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour itinerary doesn’t include lunch, so having snacks and beverages on hand is recommended to fuel the day’s activities.
Will There Be Opportunities to Purchase Souvenirs During the Tour?
The tour provides opportunities to purchase souvenirs at the Palmeira Village, where visitors can explore colorful local shops and find unique handicrafts. However, there aren’t specific souvenir-buying stops scheduled during the main tour activities.
Can I Extend the Tour Duration or Add Additional Stops?
The tour allows some flexibility to extend the duration or add stops, but this may require additional fees. Customers should check with the tour operator about customization options and associated costs prior to booking.
Are There Any Fitness or Health Requirements to Participate in the Tour?
The tour is generally not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. Participants should be able to navigate uneven terrain and get in and out of the 4×4 vehicle comfortably. Some activities, like swimming, may require basic fitness levels.
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The Sum Up
This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders of Santa Maria. From floating in the healing waters of the salt mines to observing lemon sharks at Shark Bay, participants can enjoy a one-of-a-kind adventure. With convenient hotel pickup and a knowledgeable guide, this 6-hour tour is a must-do for anyone seeking an unforgettable experience in Santa Maria.