Boavista: Santa Monica beach, Varandinha cave, Sand dunes

Introduction

Touring the south of Boavista Island in Cape Verde through this guided excursion offers a relaxed way to see some of the most iconic natural highlights of the island. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, detailed reviews and the itinerary suggest it’s a wonderful experience for those craving scenic beauty, authentic local vibes, and an easy day out.

What we love about this tour: first, the chance to visit Santa Monica Beach, one of the seven natural wonders of Cape Verde, known for its vast white sands and clear waters; second, exploring Varandinha Cave, a charming spot where rugged coastlines meet serene caves; and third, the opportunity to see the sand dunes of Morro de Areia, which are stunning and offer a taste of Africa’s remarkable desert landscapes. Plus, the inclusion of a visit to Sal Rei city center allows travelers to connect with local life and culture.

One possible drawback might be that the itinerary depends on your hotel location, which could affect the timing or route. Also, food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase them during the day.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a flexible, informative day with a knowledgeable guide and are interested in natural scenery, local culture, and a laid-back atmosphere.

Key Points

• Stunning natural sights: Beaches, caves, and dunes that showcase the island’s raw beauty.
• Expert guiding: Guides like Eddy, who speak multiple languages and share insightful information.
• Relaxed pacing: A low-stress, half-day experience with plenty of opportunities to take photos and enjoy the scenery.
• Local culture: A visit to Sal Rei offers insight into everyday life and local markets.
• Value for money: At $65, the tour covers transportation, guide, and insurance, making it a good investment for a full day’s adventure.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance and keep your plans adaptable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Boavista: What to Expect

This tour is designed to give you a broad yet intimate look at Boavista’s southern highlights through a comfortable, guided day. From the moment you’re picked up at your hotel, the itinerary is tailored to your location, ensuring a smoother experience. Expect to spend the day exploring some of the most photogenic spots on the island, with ample time for walks, photos, and soaking up the scenery.

Santa Monica Beach: The Crown Jewel

Santa Monica Beach, often called the island’s crown jewel, is one of the seven natural wonders of Cape Verde. It’s a sprawling stretch of white sand that seems to go on forever, backed by dunes and turquoise waters. Visitors often describe it as a “spectacle of nature” and a highlight of this tour. One reviewer, Karin, noted how they “got a token overview of the island and saw some amazingly beautiful beaches,” emphasizing the beach’s vastness and appeal.

The tour includes a drive along the beach, allowing you to appreciate its scale without needing to walk long distances. For those feeling adventurous, walking barefoot on the sand is recommended — it’s a fantastic way to connect with the natural surroundings and feel the cool ocean water.

Varandinha Cave: Natural Charm and Serenity

Varandinha Beach is a scenic spot with a unique charm. This destination combines peaceful beaches with rugged formations, making it a favorite for those seeking both beauty and tranquility. The highlight here is the natural cave, which offers a peek into the island’s volcanic past. Visitors often find Varandinha to be a less crowded, more intimate alternative to Santa Monica, making it perfect for relaxing or light exploration.

Morro de Areia: The Sand Dunes Wonderland

One of the most mesmerizing parts of the tour is the Morro de Areia Natural Reserve, famous for its sand dunes that plunge dramatically into the ocean. Named after the Morro de Areia hill, rising 167 meters, this reserve is an ecological treasure, home to endemic species and seabirds like the red-billed tropicbird and osprey.

The dunes themselves are stunning, and some reviewers mention sliding down them — an activity that adds an element of fun and adventure. Caron shared how the “sand dunes are beautiful,” and Weronika described sliding down them like on a snowboard, which sounds like a playful highlight.

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Sal Rei: Local Culture and Daily Life

Your tour also includes a stop in Sal Rei’s city center, where you can observe local life up close. Whether you choose to stroll along the main beach or visit the bustling vegetable and fish markets, this part of the experience offers genuine insight into the daily routines of Boavista’s residents. Several travelers appreciated the guide’s storytelling, noting that Eddy, for instance, “knew a lot about the places we visited and let us set the pace.”

Included & Not Included

This tour provides transportation, a knowledgeable guide, liability insurance, and hotel pickup and drop-off—making it a hassle-free experience. For an additional €10 per person, pickup from the Riu Touareg is possible, which is a helpful detail if you’re staying there.

Food and drinks are not included, so packing some snacks and water is advisable—especially since you’ll be outdoors for a few hours.

The Experience: Group Size and Tour Flow

Most reviews suggest a relaxed group size, often just a small group or private tours, which enhances the personalized feel. The tour duration is half a day, making it manageable even if you’re on a tight schedule.

The guide’s language skills, including French, Portuguese, and Creole, are praised, making the experience accessible for many travelers. The route varies depending on hotel location, but the core highlights remain the same.

Value and Pricing

At $65 per person, this tour offers a good balance of cost and value, especially considering the inclusion of transportation and guiding. Reviewers like Karin and Caron expressed satisfaction with the experience, highlighting the stunning scenery and the attentive guidance.

Compared to other similar experiences, the price is reasonable — especially given the opportunity to see diverse landscapes in a single day, from beaches to dunes to local markets.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and adventurers wanting a comprehensive yet laid-back exploration of Boavista’s highlights. It’s also great for those interested in local culture and wildlife, thanks to the visits to Sal Rei and the ecological reserve.

Since the tour caters to a relaxed pace, it suits travelers who prefer a gentle day rather than intense or physically demanding activities. Families, couples, or solo travelers all find this tour a worthwhile addition to their Cape Verde itinerary.

The Sum Up

This guided tour of Boavista offers an excellent introduction to the island’s natural wonders and local life. The highlights—Santa Monica Beach, Varandinha Cave, and the sand dunes—are well worth the price, and the knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights and local stories.

The flexible itinerary, comfortable transportation, and small group feel make it an accessible and enjoyable way to see some of Cape Verde’s most iconic scenery. While it’s a half-day trip, it packs in enough beauty and culture to leave you with lasting memories.

For travelers seeking an authentic, scenic adventure that balances relaxation with discovery, this tour is a solid choice. Just remember to bring some snacks and a camera — you’ll want to capture these unforgettable views.

FAQ

What’s included in this tour?
The experience includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel (with an extra €10 from Riu Touareg), transportation, a local guide, liability insurance, and assistance throughout the day.

How long does the tour last?
It’s a half-day experience, typically covering the main highlights of Boavista’s south in a relaxed pace, allowing plenty of time for photos and exploration.

Is food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so it’s recommended to bring some snacks and water to stay refreshed.

Can I customize the route?
The route depends on your hotel location, but the core sights—Santa Monica Beach, Varandinha Cave, Morro de Areia dunes, and Sal Rei—are part of most itineraries.

What languages do the guides speak?
Guides like Eddy speak multiple languages including English, French, Portuguese, Italian, and Spanish, making the experience accessible to many travelers.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, providing flexibility in case your plans change.

This tour strikes a fine balance of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and relaxed pacing, making it a favorite among visitors wanting a taste of Boavista’s natural charm without the fuss of a full-day commitment.

You can check availability for your dates here: