Boa Vista: Turtles, Sharks, City of Sal Rei, Santa Monica Beach, Shipwreck …

If you’re planning a trip to Boa Vista in Cape Verde, you’ll want an experience that combines the island’s vibrant culture with its stunning natural scenery. The Boa Vista: Turtles, Sharks, City of Sal Rei, Santa Monica Beach, Shipwreck tour does just that, offering a comprehensive look at some of the most iconic sights on the island.

This tour is praised for its expert guides, rich storytelling, and diverse stops, making it a solid choice for travelers wanting a balanced mix of adventure and cultural insight. We particularly love the chance to see turtles in their natural habitat, the fun of sandboarding, and the chance to explore the shipwreck of Santa Maria.

One thing to consider is that the tour involves quite a bit of driving and walking, which might be tiring for some. It’s best suited for those who enjoy full-day excursions and are comfortable with active days outdoors. If you’re after a well-rounded, authentic experience of Boa Vista, this tour is a fantastic pick.

Key Points

• Rich variety of stops from cultural spots to natural wonders.
• Expert English-speaking guides enhance the experience with humor and in-depth knowledge.
• Highly likely to see turtles in Turtle Bay, with a 95% chance of sighting.
• Sandboarding and beach time add fun and relaxation.
• Authentic insights into local life, from pottery in Rabil to the Santa Maria shipwreck.
• Family-friendly with activities suitable for children and teenagers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting the Day: Cultural and Historic Beginnings in Rabil

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup, so you’ll start your adventure comfortably. The first stop is the pottery school in Rabil, which offers a glimpse into local craftsmanship. Here, guides share stories about the island’s cultural heritage, making the stop both educational and engaging. It’s a nice way to get a sense of the community’s artistic side, without feeling like a typical tourist stop.

Sandboarding in the Viana Desert: Fun for All Ages

Next, you’ll head to the Viana Desert for sandboarding — a highlight that surprises many visitors. The guides are enthusiastic and ensure everyone feels safe while sliding down the dunes. As one reviewer noted, “Summer sledding is great fun for everyone,” which sums up how accessible and enjoyable this activity is, whether you’re a seasoned thrill-seeker or a beginner. The desert scenery, with its sweeping dunes, makes for fantastic photos too.

Exploring the Santa Maria Shipwreck

The Santa Maria shipwreck, which ran aground in 1968, is a key landmark and a favorite among visitors. The shipwreck’s rusted frame against the stark landscape makes a striking photo opportunity. Your guide shares the story of how it came to rest here, adding a layer of history to the visit. It’s a short stop, but one that leaves a lasting impression, especially for those interested in maritime history or photography.

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Lunch in Sal Rei: Local Flavors and Island Life

The tour then moves to Sal Rei, the island’s bustling capital. Here, you’ll have a chance to enjoy a local lunch, which helps you connect with the island’s everyday life. The stop also offers a relaxed break before heading south for more scenic adventures.

Southward Drive: Beaches, Dunes, and Turtles

After lunch, the scenery shifts to the more tranquil south. The drive offers sweeping views of the island’s landscape, perfect for snapping photos of rugged coastlines and rolling dunes. The highlight here is the visit to Morro D’Arreia’s dune landscapes, where you can marvel at the shifting sands and vast open skies.

One of the tour’s most cherished moments is watching turtles from a rock in Turtle Bay. With a 95% chance of spotting these majestic creatures, many guests find it a real highlight. As Wadim puts it, “Seeing sharks and turtles, and riding across the dunes, made the trip exciting for the whole family.”

Exploring the Caves of Varandinha and Birdwatching

Next, the guide takes you to the caves of Varandinha, a picturesque spot perfect for photos. The caves provide shelter for seabirds like ospreys and tropicbirds, offering a chance to observe wildlife in their natural environment. The guides are well-informed, often sharing insights into the local bird species, which adds an educational touch.

Santa Monica Beach: The Final Stop

The tour culminates at Santa Monica Beach, often described as the jewel of Boa Vista. The vast stretch of white sands and turquoise waters offer the perfect backdrop for relaxation or a refreshing swim—conditions permitting, as the guides always check for currents. Many reviewers mention how “beautiful” and “breathtaking” the beach is, with some enjoying a cold drink while soaking in the scenery.

Practical Details

The entire day lasts around 8 hours, with hotel pickup and drop-off included, making logistics simple and stress-free. The tour costs $84 per person, which, given the variety of stops and activities, offers good value—especially considering the personal touch of an experienced guide.

The small group sizes and friendly guides—often fluent in multiple languages including German, English, French, Spanish, and Portuguese—ensure a relaxed and personalized experience. As reviewers note, guides like José and Josy go out of their way to make the day fun, informative, and engaging.

What’s Not Included and Tips for Travelers

Transfer from your hotel is included, with specific pickup times depending on your accommodation. Notably, the tour doesn’t include transfer from the Touareg Hotel, so plan accordingly.

What to bring? Pack comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and drinks—staying hydrated in the Cape Verde sun is key. Flip-flops are fine for beach and cave stops, but sturdy shoes are better for walking around dunes and rocky areas.

Authentic and Informative Experience

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is its authenticity. From the pottery in Rabil to the tales of the Santa Maria, guides share stories that bring the island’s history and culture to life. The humorous and friendly atmosphere, especially with guides who speak German well, makes the day feel relaxed and personal.

Guests consistently mention how the guides, like José, are not only knowledgeable but also personable, making the experience memorable. Wadim shares, “Nicole gave us insights into life on the island, making the tour more meaningful.”

Wildlife Encounters and Scenic Views

The chance to see sea turtles in Turtle Bay is a major draw. With such a high likelihood of sighting them, many visitors feel it’s a must-do activity. Watching these gentle creatures from a rock amid the waves is both calming and awe-inspiring. If currents and sea conditions allow, you might also enjoy a swim at Santa Monica Beach, which many seem eager to do, especially after a long day of exploring.

Sandboarding: A Playful Touch

Sandboarding is a surprisingly fun addition that appeals to all ages. The guides ensure safety and encouragement, making it accessible even for first-timers. Many reviews highlight how much fun the activity is, with some mentioning their children still talking about riding across the dunes.

What This Tour Means for Visitors

This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive look at Boa Vista without the hassle of planning multiple trips. It suits travelers interested in a mix of culture, wildlife, and adventure, packed into a single day.

It’s especially ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate informative guides, scenic drives, and engaging activities like sandboarding and wildlife watching. The mix of historical storytelling, nature exploration, and beach relaxation offers a well-rounded experience, all at a reasonable price point.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers genuine value, especially considering the variety and quality of experiences packed into one day. The knowledgeable guides and scenic stops make it a fantastic way to get to know Boa Vista beyond just lounging on beaches.

The balance of culture, wildlife, and adventure ensures that everyone leaves with memorable moments — whether it’s seeing turtles, riding dunes, or exploring shipwrecks. For travelers wanting a laid-back but enriching day, this tour hits all the right notes.

If you’re after an authentic, well-organized day that captures the spirit of Boa Vista, this tour is a dependable choice. Its blend of fun activities, interesting history, and stunning scenery makes it suitable for most active travelers eager to explore the island’s highlights.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, with specific times depending on your accommodation.

Can I see turtles during the tour?
There’s about a 95% chance of spotting turtles in Turtle Bay, making this one of the tour’s most popular highlights.

Is sandboarding suitable for children?
Yes, sandboarding is described as great fun for everyone, and guides ensure safety and encouragement for all ages.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, sun hat, swimwear, towel, drinks, sunscreen, and flip-flops are recommended for a comfortable day.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, including travel time and stops.

Are guides fluent in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak German, English, French, Spanish, and Portuguese, ensuring clear communication.

Is swimming possible at Santa Monica Beach?
Yes, if sea conditions and currents allow, you can enjoy a swim or relax on the beach.

What’s the cost of the tour?
The tour costs $84 per person, offering good value considering the variety of activities and insights.

This well-rounded tour offers an excellent way to discover the many facets of Boa Vista, blending fun, culture, and nature seamlessly. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, you’ll leave with plenty of stories and stunning memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: