Boa Vista Island: Full Day North to South Discovery

Taking a full-day tour around Boa Vista offers a fantastic way to see the island’s most stunning sights in one go. While we haven’t personally experienced this exact trip, a wealth of reviews and detailed itineraries reveal what makes it special. Think sweeping beaches, dramatic cliffs, historical villages, and even a touch of adventure—all with a friendly local guide leading the way.

What we love about this tour? First, the variety — it covers everything from pristine beaches to rugged deserts, perfect for those who want a comprehensive snapshot of the island. Second, the knowledgeable local guides, like Ze Ramos and Jorge, who seem to truly make the experience personal and insightful. Third, the value for money, with reviews praising the mix of sightseeing, cultural insights, and tasty local lunch for under $100.

A possible consideration? The tour’s duration — around 7 to 8 hours — means you’ll want to be prepared for a full day on the move, with some stops being quite brief. If you prefer a slower pace or have mobility concerns, this might feel a tad rushed. This experience suits travelers eager to see as much of Boa Vista as possible, especially those who love a mix of scenic landscapes, culture, and a bit of adventure.

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Key Points

Diverse sights: Beaches, villages, shipwrecks, and desert landscapes in one day
Expert guides: Local guides like Ze Ramos and Jorge enhance the experience with context and care
Authentic experiences: Opportunities to see turtles, explore caves, and meet locals
Value for money: Combines sightseeing, cultural insights, and a tasty lunch at a reasonable price
Small group intimacy: Usually booked well in advance; maximum 32 travelers for a more personalized feel
Full day adventure: Perfect for those wanting a comprehensive, active day out

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

This tour kicks off early at 9:00am, giving you a full day of exploration that covers some of the island’s most iconic spots. The itinerary is thoughtfully planned to balance scenic vistas, cultural insights, and fun activities. Here’s a detailed look:

Looking for more options in Boa Vista? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Morro De Areia Beach and Nature Reserve

Your adventure starts at Morro De Areia Beach, a highlight for lovers of natural beauty and photography. The standout activity here is sandboarding on expansive dunes that stretch all the way to the ocean. The reviews highlight how exhilarating it can be to slide down the soft sands—something that’s memorable for both kids and adults.

The area is also a good chance to spot marine life like sharks and turtles, depending on the season and luck. The 40-minute stop is a good introduction, with free admission making it accessible to all.

Praia da Varandinha

Next, you’ll head to Praia da Varandinha, a protected beach famous for its caves and turtle nesting sites. Here, exploring caves adds a sense of adventure, and the opportunity to observe turtles in their natural habitat is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Visitors note that this stop is brief but enriching, offering a close-up look at Cape Verde’s untouched coastline.

Santa Monica Beach

The largest beach on the island, Santa Monica, is a real crowd-pleaser. With one hour to relax in the sun, swim in the clear waters, or just enjoy the vast white sands, it’s a perfect break from the busy sightseeing. Reviewers consistently mention how stunning the scenery is and how ideal it is for unwinding.

Pavoacao Velha

Stepping into history, Pavoacao Velha, founded in 1620, offers a glimpse into Cape Verde’s colonial past. Walking through this old village, you’ll see traditional houses and meet local residents. Reviewers say it feels like stepping back in time, and it’s a quiet, peaceful spot that enriches your understanding of local life.

There's plenty more to explore in Boa Vista

Sal Rei

The buzzing capital of Boa Vista, Sal Rei, is perfect for enjoying culture. You can stroll through markets, like the municipal market or visit the Shipwreck Museum, and enjoy a leisurely lunch in a local restaurant. Many travelers value this stop for its authenticity, with reviews praising the tasty, home-cooked style dishes and the chance to shop for souvenirs. The two-hour window allows for a relaxed exploration.

Cabo Santa Maria Shipwreck

On the north coast lies the haunting remains of the Cabo Santa Maria, a Spanish shipwreck that has become one of the island’s most photographed sites. The area also hosts a protected turtle nesting beach. The shipwreck’s eerie presence, combined with its photographic appeal, makes it a memorable highlight—reviewers love how it encapsulates the island’s rugged history.

Deserto de Viana

The grand finale is a visit to the surreal Deserto de Viana, where towering sand dunes up to 50 meters high create a mini Sahara in the middle of Boa Vista. This stark, striking landscape offers fantastic photo opportunities, and a quick stop here leaves visitors in awe of nature’s sculptural artistry.

Transportation, Group Size, and Overall Value

Transportation is typically via comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles suited for off-road conditions, as many routes are rugged. With a maximum group size of 32, the tour offers a more intimate experience than larger, bus-style trips. This smaller group dynamic means guides like Jorge or Ze Ramos can offer personalized insights and ensure everyone gets enough time at each stop.

Priced at around $90.59 per person, the value lies in the comprehensive coverage of the island’s top sights, the inclusion of a tasty local lunch, and the chance to see a variety of landscapes—from beaches and villages to deserts and shipwrecks. Reviewers frequently mention how the experience feels well-balanced and thoughtfully curated, with many praising the helpfulness and friendliness of the guides.

Highlights from Reviews

Many reviews emphasize the importance of knowledgeable guides. For example, one reviewer notes that Ze Ramos was an “excellent guide,” and another highlights Jorge’s clear explanations throughout the day. The personal touches, like timely visits and tailored stops, really make the trip stand out.

Food plays a surprising role in the positive feedback, with travelers describing the lunch as “delicious” and “home-cooked,” adding a tasty cultural layer to the day. The inclusion of stops like Sal Rei’s markets and the shipwreck museum ensures travelers can soak up local culture beyond just scenic views.

Potential Downsides

Some reviewers mention that the tour can feel a little rushed, especially with a full 7-8 hour itinerary. If you prefer a more leisurely pace with longer stops, this might not be your ideal choice. Also, since certain activities like sandboarding depend on weather and timing, there’s a small chance you might miss out if conditions aren’t perfect.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This full-day excursion suits travelers who want a thorough, active introduction to Boa Vista. It’s perfect for those who love nature, scenic landscapes, and cultural spots, and don’t mind a busy schedule. Adventure seekers will appreciate the sandboarding and desert views, while history buffs will enjoy the old village and shipwreck.

Couples, families, and solo travelers alike find value here, especially since the group sizes tend to be smaller, fostering a friendly, personalized atmosphere. If you’re after a mix of relaxation, exploration, and authentic local encounters, this tour checks all the boxes.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour of Boa Vista offers a well-rounded glimpse into the island’s diverse natural beauty and rich culture. From stunning beaches and striking desert landscapes to historic villages and shipwrecks, it packs a lot into one day. The guides’ local knowledge, combined with the small-group setting, enhances the experience, making it more personal and engaging.

While it’s a long day, it’s also highly rewarding for those eager to see the highlights without missing out on the authentic vibe of Boa Vista. For travelers looking for an immersive day that balances sightseeing, adventure, and culture, this tour provides excellent value and memorable moments.

Perfect for active travelers, photography enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a comprehensive, authentic taste of Boa Vista in one go. Just be prepared for a full schedule, and you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for this beautiful island.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
It typically lasts about 7 to 8 hours, starting at 9:00am, so it’s a full day of exploring.

Is pickup offered?
Yes, pickup is included, making it convenient to start your day without worrying about transportation.

What is the group size?
The tour can accommodate up to 32 travelers, allowing for a more personalized experience.

What’s included in the price?
The tour covers all stops, transportation, and a home-cooked lunch. Entrance fees to stops like the shipwreck are free.

Are there any physical activity requirements?
A moderate level of physical fitness is suggested, especially for activities like sandboarding and walking through villages.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?
If it’s canceled due to poor weather conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Will I get enough time at each stop?
Most stops are brief but well-planned; some reviews mention feeling a bit rushed, so plan accordingly.

Is there opportunity for shopping?
While there are shops in Sal Rei, the focus is on sightseeing and cultural sites, with limited shopping time.

This tour stands out as a solid choice for those wanting a detailed, authentic snapshot of Boa Vista, blending scenic beauty, cultural spots, and adventure—all led by guides who genuinely know the island inside out.