Boa Vista: Shipwreck, Viana Desert & Sal Rei Tour

If you’re visiting Boa Vista Island in Cape Verde and looking for a way to see its most iconic sights, this tour offers a well-rounded experience. It combines history, adventure, and local culture—all in one day. From exploring a fascinating shipwreck to riding the dunes of Viana Desert, and finishing with a stroll through Sal Rei’s lively streets, this trip packs a lot into its roughly six-hour window.

What really sets this tour apart is the chance to see Cabo Santa Maria’s legendary shipwreck, try sandboarding on the shifting Viana Desert dunes, and shop for authentic Cape Verdean crafts. The guides are generally praised for their friendly approach and local knowledge, making it easy to learn about the island’s stories and traditions. One aspect to keep in mind: the tour involves some bumpy dirt roads and outdoor time, so sun protection is a must.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and adventure without breaking the bank. Active explorers, history buffs, and those eager to mingle with locals will find plenty to enjoy. However, if you prefer a more relaxed, sit-back kind of day, some parts of this tour might feel a bit fast-paced or outside your comfort zone.

Key Points

• Highlights include the Cabo Santa Maria Shipwreck, Viana Desert sandboarding, and a walking tour of Sal Rei.
• Guides are friendly and knowledgeable, often sharing insights about Cape Verdean culture.
• Tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, making it convenient for travelers.
• Bring sun protection, swimwear, and a towel for the beach and outdoor activities.
• The tour is priced at $70 per person, offering good value considering the diverse sights.
• Expect some rough roads and outdoor exposure; prepared clothing and sunscreen are essential.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overall Experience and Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point: Local Crafts and Rabil

Your day begins with pickup from your hotel, setting the tone for a relaxed yet engaging adventure. The first stop is a charming craft store in Rabil, where local artisans are busy making pottery, jewelry, and other handmade souvenirs. This stop offers a glimpse into Cape Verde’s craftsmanship and provides excellent photo opportunities. Travelers have mentioned that they loved visiting the pottery workshop, with one reviewer noting, “The pottery factory was lovely and the prices were really reasonable.” It’s a great chance to pick up authentic souvenirs directly from the artisans, supporting local livelihoods.

Viana Desert: Sand Dunes and Sandboarding Fun

Next, you’ll head to the Viana Desert — a vast stretch of rolling sand dunes that stretch as far as the eye can see. Here, the main draw is sandboarding, which is included in the tour. Even if you’ve never tried it, the gentle slopes and friendly guides make it accessible and fun. One traveler highlighted that the sandboarding was the best part of the trip for them, describing it as “lots of fun and a real adrenaline rush.”

The Dunes aren’t just a playground; they’re also a photographer’s paradise, with sweeping views and dramatic light. Be prepared for some wind and sun exposure—wear sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen to stay comfortable. If you’re feeling adventurous, this stop offers a break from traditional sightseeing and a chance to get your adrenaline going.

Cabo Santa Maria Shipwreck: A Historic Marvel

The highlight for many is the Cabo Santa Maria Shipwreck, which ran aground in 1968 carrying cargo and church bells destined for Brasília. Today, the rusting hull lies partially buried in the sand, creating an evocative scene that’s perfect for photos. As one reviewer put it, “The shipwreck is fascinating—such an eerie yet beautiful relic of the past.” Walking along the beach nearby offers a relaxed pause, with the sound of crashing waves and the sight of the old ship serving as a reminder of maritime history.

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Sal Rei: City Walk and Local Market

The final part of the tour takes you to Sal Rei, the island’s bustling capital. Here, a guided walk introduces you to key sights and the local vibe. You’ll have some free time to explore at your own pace—perfect for browsing markets, tasting local snacks, or just soaking in the lively atmosphere. A traveler commented that the guide was really informative, sharing insights into daily life on the island.

The market is a highlight for many, offering local products and crafts—a great place to buy souvenirs and mingle with friendly locals. Be aware that one reviewer found the additional €10 charge for some extras a bit steep, but overall, the market experience provides authentic cultural insight and a chance to support small vendors.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation and Group Size

This tour is conducted with hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple for travelers. The vehicle is likely a comfortable minibus, although some reviewers mention traveling over dirt roads that can be bumpy and hot—so travel with sun protection and water. Group sizes tend to be small, adding a personal touch and making it easier to ask questions and get tailored information from the guides.

Duration and Price

At $70 per person, the price offers a fair value considering the variety of sights and activities included. The tour lasts around six hours, which is a good length for a day packed with different experiences. It’s worth noting that food and drinks are not included, so bringing some snacks and water is advisable.

What to Bring

• Sunglasses and sunhat for sun protection during outdoor activities
• Swimwear and towel for beach visits or cooling off after sandboarding
• Sunscreen to prevent sunburn during outdoor exposure
• Optional: Camera or smartphone for capturing the dramatic scenery
• Comfortable shoes suitable for walking and sandboarding

Language Options and Booking Flexibility

The tour is available in several languages including English, German, French, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish, making it accessible for many travelers. Booking is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later, plus free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

What the Reviews Tell Us

Some travelers describe the guides as friendly and helpful, sharing useful insights about Cape Verdean culture and history. For example, “Bernado, our driver, was very friendly and knowledgeable,” and another mentioned how the guide was really informative during the city walk. However, there are some notes about the guide not providing much information at certain stops, like Sal Rei or the local beach, leaving travelers to explore on their own.

One reviewer highlighted the outdoor aspect—traveling on dirt roads in the hot sun—which underscores the importance of sun protection. Others loved the variety of the experience, from the historic shipwreck to the adventurous sandboarding, making it a well-rounded day for active travelers.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy a mix of history, culture, and outdoor activities. It’s perfect if you want to see some of Boa Vista’s most iconic sights without doing multiple trips, as it combines several highlights into one day. It also suits those who appreciate authentic local crafts and don’t mind some rough roads and outdoor exposure.

If you’re a history buff, the shipwreck alone is worth the price. For adventure lovers, the sandboarding will satisfy your craving for excitement. And for culture seekers, wandering Sal Rei’s markets offers a glimpse into everyday island life.

However, those seeking a more relaxed, less active experience might find parts of this tour a bit hurried or physically demanding, especially if they’re not accustomed to sun and outdoor activity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is included in the tour?
Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, but food and drinks are not. The tour covers visits to the craft store, Viana Desert, Cabo Santa Maria Shipwreck, and Sal Rei.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately six hours, offering a full morning and early afternoon of sightseeing and activities.

Is sandboarding suitable for beginners?
Yes. The activity is designed to be accessible and fun, even for first-timers. Guides are there to assist.

What should I bring?
Sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), swimwear, a towel, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Can I buy souvenirs during the tour?
Yes, the craft store and local market are perfect spots to pick up authentic Cape Verdean crafts and souvenirs.

What is the cost of the tour?
It’s priced at $70 per person, which includes most activities and transportation.

Are there any additional charges?
There’s an additional €10 fee for some extras, like the pottery visit, but this is optional.

Does the tour operate in my language?
The tour is available in multiple languages including English, German, French, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it appeals to active families, especially those interested in outdoor activities and cultural experiences. Just be mindful of sun protection and outdoor conditions.

Final Thoughts

This Boa Vista: Shipwreck, Viana Desert & Sal Rei Tour offers a well-balanced day packed with adventure, culture, and history. The inclusion of guided insights, authentic crafts, and thrilling sandboarding makes it a great choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive look at the island’s highlights.

The friendly guides and diverse sights make it especially appealing, despite some rough roads and outdoor exposure. It’s a fantastic way to make the most of a day on Boa Vista, especially if you’re eager to see the island’s iconic shipwreck and experience a bit of local life.

In essence, this tour is best suited for active explorers who appreciate authentic experiences and don’t mind a bit of sunshine and dirt roads. If you’re looking for a fun, engaging, and value-packed day, this could be just what you need to uncover Boa Vista’s true spirit.

You can check availability for your dates here: