Sao Vicente, an island in the Cape Verde archipelago, beckons travelers with its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes. This full-day, 6-hour tour from Mindelo promises an immersive experience, guiding you through historical sites, bustling markets, and picturesque natural wonders. From the Fortim do Rei fortress to the lively Mercado De Peixe, you’ll uncover the island’s rich heritage. Scenic drives through Parque Natural Monte Verde and relaxation at the Baía das Gatas beach await, whetting your appetite for the local cuisine that will surely leave a lasting impression. Embark on this journey, and discover the captivating essence of Sao Vicente.
Good To Know
- Comprehensive 6-hour guided tour of Sao Vicente’s cultural and natural highlights, including visits to historical sites, markets, and scenic viewpoints.
- Competitive tour price of €50.25 per person with up to 15% savings, including pickup/drop-off, private transportation, and entrance fees.
- Explore Mindelo’s heritage at the Cultural Center and markets, followed by scenic stops at Parque Natural Monte Verde and Baía das Gatas beach.
- Enjoy a local Cape Verdean cuisine lunch and free time for immersion in the island’s culture and natural beauty.
- Flexible cancellation policy with full refund available up to 24 hours prior, and customer reviews highlighting excellent value and knowledgeable guides.
Tour Overview and Duration
The Sao Vicente Full Day Highlights tour is a 6-hour excursion that allows visitors to explore the key sights and experiences of the island.
Priced at €50.25 per person, with a savings of up to 15%, the tour offers a rundown of the area, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
The tour’s highlights include guided visits to historical sites, bustling markets, and scenic viewpoints, providing a well-rounded introduction to the vibrant culture and natural beauty of Sao Vicente.
Pricing and Cancellation Policy
The Sao Vicente Full Day Highlights tour offers a competitively-priced option at just €50.25 per person, representing a savings of up to 15% off the standard rate.
This price includes:
- Pickup and drop-off at your accommodation in Mindelo.
- A private, professional tour guide who can provide commentary in English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish.
- Entrance fees to key attractions like the Ocean Museum, Centro Nacional de Artesanato, and Cesária Évora Museum.
What’s more, the tour boasts a free cancellation policy, allowing you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
With these flexible options, you can book your spot with confidence and pay nothing today.
Pickup Location and Itinerary
The tour begins with pickup from your accommodation in Mindelo or the Cultural Center.
The first stop is Fortim do Rei for a 15-minute guided tour.
Next, you’ll visit the Cultural Center of Mindelo and the Mercado De Peixe, both with 15-minute guided tours.
The tour then proceeds to the Mercado Municipal, also with a 15-minute guided tour, though it’s closed on Sundays.
A photo stop and free time follow at Parque Natural Monte Verde, before continuing to Salamansa for a photo stop and sightseeing.
The highlight is Baía das Gatas, where you can swim, take photos, and enjoy free time.
Key Stops and Highlights
After exploring the pickup location and initial stops, the tour moves on to some of the key highlights.
Visitors will enjoy a guided tour of the historic Fortim do Rei, followed by a visit to the vibrant Cultural Center of Mindelo to learn about the island’s rich heritage.
The tour then takes them to the bustling Mercado De Peixe and Mercado Municipal, offering a glimpse into the local markets.
The highlights continue with:
- A photo stop and free time at the scenic Parque Natural Monte Verde.
- Sightseeing and a photo opportunity in the charming seaside town of Salamansa.
- Swimming, photo ops, and free time at the picturesque Ba??a das Gatas beach.
Tour Inclusions and Requirements
Included in the Sao Vicente Highlights tour are pickup and drop-off at accommodations in Mindelo, private transportation, and a professional tour guide fluent in English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish.
The tour also includes liability insurance and entrance fees to the Ocean Museum, Centro Nacional de Artesanato, and Cesária Évora Museum.
Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and water, and notify the guide of any dietary restrictions or allergies.
The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with altitude sickness, as it includes a scenic drive to the highest peak in São Vicente at 750 meters (2,460 feet).
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Customers have overall rated the Sao Vicente Highlights tour 4.7 out of 5 stars based on 35 reviews.
The tour’s transportation was particularly well-received, earning a 4.8/5 rating. Reviewers also emphasized the tour’s value for money, giving it a 4.5/5 rating.
Key highlights from the positive feedback include:
- Knowledgeable and engaging tour guides
- Enjoyable local meals
- Stunning scenic stops that allowed for memorable photographs
Scenic Drives and Free Time
The tour includes several scenic drives that showcase the diverse landscapes of São Vicente. From the coast, you’ll ascend to the highest peak, Monte Verde, at 750m (2,460ft) for panoramic views. Along the way, there are stops for photos and free time to explore.
| Location | Duration | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Parque Natural Monte Verde | 25 min | Photo stop, coffee/tea, free time |
| Salamansa | 20 min | Photo stop, sightseeing |
| Baía das Gatas | 30 min | Swimming, photo stop, free time |
| Estrada Baía das Gatas – Calhau | 30 min | Sightseeing |
| Calhau | 1.5 hours | Lunch, photo stop, free time |
These scenic drives and leisure time allow you to learn about the natural beauty and culture of the island.
Dining and Payment Options
Lunch at a local restaurant is included as part of the tour’s itinerary, offering an opportunity to savor authentic Cape Verdean cuisine.
The payment options for the tour are as follows:
- The restaurant accepts both euros and escudos, the local currency, as payment.
- However, credit cards aren’t accepted, so guests should ensure they’ve cash on hand.
- The tour price itself can be reserved now and paid for later, allowing for a flexible payment schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement?
The tour doesn’t have a minimum group size requirement. Customers can book the tour for themselves or as a private group. The tour is flexible and can accommodate both solo travelers and larger parties.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?
The tour can be customized to suit individual preferences. Travelers can discuss changes to the itinerary with the tour provider, who’ll accommodate requests within reason and availability. Customization provides a more personalized experience.
Are Children and Infants Charged the Same Rate?
Children and infants are typically charged a discounted rate on this tour. Pricing for children is often around 75% of the adult fare, while infants under 2 years old may be free. The tour operator can provide specific child and infant pricing details.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Swimwear and a towel are advised for the stop at Baía das Gatas where there’s an opportunity to swim.
Do I Need to Bring Any Additional Supplies?
Guests should pack a few additional supplies for the tour, including comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, water, and any necessary medications. Dietary restrictions or allergies should also be communicated to the tour provider.
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The Sum Up
This comprehensive tour of Sao Vicente provides a unique opportunity to take in the island’s vibrant culture and stunning natural beauty. With guided visits to historical sites, bustling markets, and picturesque beaches, as well as scenic drives through the lush Parque Natural Monte Verde, this 6-hour experience offers an unforgettable glimpse into the heritage and charm of this captivating destination.