Set out on a captivating exploration of Cape Verde’s rich heritage with the 3-Hour Praia & Cidade Velha Historic Tour. This intimate experience takes you on a journey through the UNESCO-protected Cidade Velha, where you’ll uncover the stories of slavery and the vibrant local culture. With an expert guide by your side, you’ll visit iconic landmarks like the São Felipe Royal Fortification, gaining insights that bring the past to life. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a immersive cultural experience, this tour promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the unique blend of African and Portuguese influences that define the heart of Cape Verde.
Good To Know
- This 3-hour historic tour takes visitors to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cidade Velha and other notable landmarks in Praia.
- The tour includes pickup from the Praia port, a guided exploration of historic sites, and insights into the region’s history of slavery.
- Highlights include the São Felipe Royal Fortification, the first European-built cathedral, Diogo Gomes Statue, and the Mercado Municipal di Praia.
- The tour offers an immersive experience with opportunities to interact with local vendors and observe daily life in Praia.
- The tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience, with a flexible schedule and no upfront payment required.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This 3-hour Praia & Cidade Velha Historic Tour is a shore excursion that costs SEK 623 per person.
There’s no upfront payment required – you can reserve now and pay later. If you need to cancel, you can do so up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The tour has a small group size limited to 8 participants. You’ll be picked up from the Praia port, and an expert guide will lead you through the historic centers, showcasing colonial architecture and UNESCO World Heritage sites.
It’s an immersive experience to learn about the history of slavery from a knowledgeable guide.
Itinerary and Highlights
After being picked up from the Praia port, the guide will lead the group on a guided tour of the historic centers, showcasing the area’s colonial architecture.
The first stop is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cidade Velha, where you will explore the São Felipe Royal Fortification and the first Cathedral built by Europeans in Sub-Saharan Africa.
During the scenic walks, the group will admire the Diogo Gomes Statue and Alexandre Albuquerque Square.
Along the way, the expert guide will share insights into the history of slavery.
The tour also includes a visit to the Mercado Municipal di Praia and a photo stop at the Pelourinho in Cidade Velha.
Detailed Itinerary Breakdown
The tour begins with a pickup from the Praia port, where the guide, holding a sign with the traveler’s name, greets the group.
They’ll start with a 15-minute guided tour of the historic Plateau area in Praia. Next, they’ll visit the Municipal Market for 15 minutes before heading to the Diogo Gomes Statue for a 15-minute photo stop.
The group will then walk for 15 minutes through Alexandre Albuquerque Square before a 15-minute car transfer to Ribeira Grande de Santiago.
There, they’ll spend 20 minutes exploring the historic São Felipe Royal Fortification, followed by a 20-minute scenic walk to the Pelourinho in Cidade Velha.
The tour concludes with a visit to Banana Street and a photo stop at the Sé Cathedral Ruins before returning to Praia.
Inclusions and Services
The tour includes pickup and drop-off at the Port of Praia, along with all necessary transportation throughout the excursion.
An English, French, Spanish, or Portuguese live tour guide accompanies visitors, providing expert commentary on the history and culture.
Liability insurance is also included, ensuring a worry-free experience.
The only additional cost is the €5 entrance fee for the São Felipe Royal Fortification, a key highlight of the tour.
With these comprehensive inclusions, travelers can enjoy the historic sites and scenic vistas of Praia and Cidade Velha without any additional expenses or hassles.
Important Notes
Travelers should check availability for starting times, as the tour itineraries may be subject to change. Engagement with local markets and warm-hearted locals is encouraged during the tour. Participants can expect the following:
| Consideration | Details |
|---|---|
| Flexibility | Tour schedules and routes may require adjustments |
| Authenticity | Opportunities to interact with the community |
| Comfort | Small group size (max 8) ensures personalized experience |
| Finances | No upfront payment required, free cancellation available |
This historic tour provides an immersive introduction to Praia and Cidade Velha, allowing visitors to explore the rich cultural heritage of Cape Verde.
Pickup and Transportation
A complimentary pickup service from the Port of Praia is included in this tour, ensuring a seamless start to the historic exploration.
You’ll be greeted by a guide holding a sign with your name, ready to whisk you away to the highlights of Praia and Cidade Velha. The transportation throughout the tour is provided, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the scenic views as you move from one captivating site to the next.
With a small group size limited to 8 participants, you’ll have the flexibility to explore the historic centers, colonial architecture, and UNESCO World Heritage Site at a comfortable pace.
Guided Tour Highlights
Routinely, the guided tour takes visitors through the historic centers of Praia and Cidade Velha, showcasing the region’s captivating colonial architecture.
Highlights include:
-
A visit to the Mercado Municipal di Praia, where guests can enjoy the local culture and browse vibrant market stalls.
-
A photo stop at the Diogo Gomes Statue, offering scenic views of the surrounding area.
-
A scenic walk through Alexandre Albuquerque Square, providing a glimpse into the city’s past.
-
Exploring the renowned São Felipe Royal Fortification and the ruins of the Sé Cathedral, the first European-built cathedral in sub-Saharan Africa.
Local Experiences
On the tour, visitors can engage with warm-hearted locals and enjoy the vibrant market culture of Praia.
At the Mercado Municipal di Praia, they’ll find a bustling marketplace filled with vendors selling fresh produce, handcrafted goods, and local delicacies.
Wandering through the stalls, travelers can interact with the friendly merchants, learning about their wares and the stories behind them.
The tour also includes a scenic walk through Alexandre Albuquerque Square, where visitors can observe the daily rhythms of Praia’s lively public spaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Tour Cancellation Policy?
This tour allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. There’s no upfront payment required, so you can reserve your spot now and pay later.
What Can I Expect From the Local Cuisine During the Tour?
While the tour doesn’t include samples, it provides insights into the local cuisine. Visitors can expect to learn about Cape Verdean specialties like cachupa, a hearty corn and bean stew, and try traditional drinks at the Municipal Market in Praia.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
While the standard tour lasts 3 hours, travelers can inquire about extending the duration to explore more of the historic sites and immerse themselves deeper in the local culture and cuisine. Extensions may incur an additional fee.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Excursion?
There are no age restrictions for this excursion. It’s suitable for travelers of all ages who want to explore Cape Verde’s historic sites. Children are welcome, and families will enjoy learning about the island’s captivating history together.
Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Small Group?
Yes, you can request a private tour instead of a small group. This provides a more personalized experience and allows for flexible scheduling. Private tours are available for an additional fee.
The Sum Up
This 3-hour historic tour of Praia and Cidade Velha is a must-do for anyone wanting to discover Cape Verde’s rich heritage. Explore the UNESCO-listed Cidade Velha, visit the San Felipe Royal Fortification, and learn about the vibrant local culture, all while guided by an expert who brings the past to life. It’s an affordable, authentic, and efficient way to uncover the captivating history of this remarkable destination.