If you’re looking to get a true taste of what makes Boa Vista special, this East Tour by Creolo Tour Boavista offers a compelling day out. From striking coastlines and vibrant villages to the chance to see turtles in their natural habitat, it’s a well-rounded way to explore the island’s highlights without feeling rushed.
What stands out are the breathtaking views from Morro Negro lighthouse, the chance to walk among colorful local villages, and the opportunity to relax at a turtle reserve with crystal-clear waters. The tour also provides a glimpse into local life, thanks to stops at small villages and the salt mine, giving visitors a more genuine connection to the island.
One thing to consider is that the tour involves several stops and walking, including a 12-minute climb to the lighthouse. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic sightseeing, light hiking, and cultural insights. If you value authentic experiences and stunning landscapes, this tour is a solid choice.
Who will love this tour?
Travelers seeking a balanced mix of nature, culture, and scenery, especially those interested in seeing the island’s original side, will find this tour a rewarding day out. It’s particularly good for those wanting an affordable, guided experience with local flavor.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Authentic Local Experience: Visit colorful villages and the birthplace of Cape Verde’s first president.
- Breathtaking Views: Climb Morro Negro lighthouse for panoramic vistas of the east coast.
- Wildlife & Nature: Swim in Ervatão turtle reserve and see protected green turtles.
- Unique Stops: Explore abandoned Cural Velho village and salt mines, plus a Baobab tree.
- Adventure & Relaxation: Sandboarding in Viana Desert and relaxing at pristine beaches.
- Inclusive & Flexible: Price includes lunch, a guide, a drink, and hotel transfers, with flexible booking options.
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An In-Depth Look at the East Tour Experience
Starting Point: Panoramic Views of Ponta Pesqueira
The tour kicks off with a scenic drive that offers sweeping views of Ponta Pesqueira. It’s an ideal way to set the scene, as you’ll get a glimpse of Boa Vista’s rugged coastline and arid landscapes. Many travelers mention that the view alone makes the early start worthwhile, providing perfect photo opportunities.
Exploring the Abandoned Village of Cural Velho
Next, the journey takes you to the ruins of Cural Velho, an abandoned village that paints a picture of the island’s past settlements. While the site is not restored, wandering among the crumbling structures offers a sense of history and resilience. Some visitors note that the site feels almost cinematic, like stepping back in time. It’s a quiet, contemplative stop that’s perfect for appreciating the island’s quieter, untouched corners.
More Great Tours NearbySalt Mine Stop & Salt Stone Souvenir
A visit to the salt mine adds a practical touch to the day. Here, you can see traditional salt harvesting methods and, as a token of the visit, receive a souvenir made of salt stones. It’s a simple but memorable keepsake that reminds you of Boa Vista’s natural resources. Reviewers found the salt souvenir to be a charming, tangible memory of the day.
Coastal Beauty at João Barbosa Beach
Following the salt mine, the tour heads to João Barbosa beach, renowned for its pristine, untouched beauty. The stunning landscape and calming sea provide a perfect backdrop for photos or a quick walk along the shore. Travelers often comment on the peaceful vibe and the striking contrast between the arid inland and the lush coast.
The Tree of Life: Baobab Tree
A highlight is the visit to the baobab tree, often called the “tree of life.” These ancient giants are rare and distinctive, and walking around one offers a sense of wonder. Such trees are often associated with survival and resilience, echoing the spirit of the island itself. Reviewers loved the opportunity to stand next to such a monumental natural feature.
Turtle Reserve at Ervatão Beach
Cooling off at Ervatão beach is a favorite part for many. This natural reserve is a sanctuary for green turtles, and the water is so clear you can see the marine life beneath. Swimming here feels like entering a different world—calm, vibrant, and full of life. One visitor shared, “Swimming among the turtles was unforgettable; it felt like I was in a wildlife documentary.” It’s a rare chance to see wildlife in its natural habitat, making it a top highlight.
The Climb to Morro Negro Lighthouse
No visit to Boa Vista is complete without a view from Morro Negro lighthouse. The 12-minute walk up is manageable, and the view from the top offers a sweeping vista of the east coast’s rugged cliffs and beaches. It’s particularly stunning at sunset, but the daytime view is equally impressive. Many reviewers appreciate the effort for the payoff—stunning photo opportunities and a sense of achievement.
Lunch at Fundo das Figueiras
A traditional local lunch at Fundo das Figueiras allows travelers to taste authentic Cape Verdean cuisine. It’s notable that Fundo das Figueiras is the birthplace of Cape Verde’s first president, Arrestides Perreira, giving the meal cultural significance. Reviewers often mention the hearty, flavorful dishes and the chance to sit with locals, making this a genuine cultural exchange.
Viana Desert & Sandboarding
The trip then continues along Itinerario 66 to the Viana Desert, where the sand dunes provide a fun opportunity for sandboarding. This light-hearted activity appeals to adventure lovers, and many appreciate the chance to try something different in a striking landscape. The desert’s vast, golden dunes offer an almost surreal setting for photos or just feeling like you’re on an alien planet.
Return & Reflection
After a full day of exploring, the tour concludes with a comfortable drive back to your hotel. Many guests note that the day felt well-paced, balancing activity with moments to relax and take in the scenery.
Practicalities & Value Assessment
The tour costs $94 per person, which covers guide services (in several languages including German, English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish), hotel transfers, lunch, and a drink. Given the variety of stops, the inclusions offer good value—especially considering the diversity of experiences packed into one day.
The guide, who speaks fluent German among other languages, was often praised for being knowledgeable and friendly, enhancing the overall experience. The group size tends to be moderate, allowing for a personalized feel without feeling crowded.
Timing-wise, the full-day itinerary is designed to maximize sightseeing while allowing enough time at each stop. The walk up Morro Negro, for instance, takes about 12 minutes, which is manageable for most. The overall pace feels balanced, giving ample opportunity to enjoy each highlight without rushing.
The Good & The Not-So-Good
Reviewers frequently mention the stunning views from the lighthouse and the quiet beauty of the beaches as top draws. The salt mine and salt souvenir are appreciated for their authenticity. The only possible drawback is the extensive nature of the day—some might find the drive between stops long, especially if traveling with young children or those prone to motion sickness.
Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for people over 95 years old, mainly due to walking and activity levels. But overall, the experience offers a solid mix of nature, culture, and adventure.
Final Thoughts
This East Tour on Boa Vista offers a thoughtfully curated slice of the island’s most authentic and scenic spots. It’s perfect for travelers who want more than just beaches—those craving cultural insights, wildlife encounters, and sweeping panoramas.
The combination of scenic viewpoints, local villages, and natural reserves makes this a well-rounded day trip. The value for the price is clear, with inclusions like lunch, a guide, and transfers adding to the convenience.
If you’re after a mix of adventure, scenery, and local flavor, this tour will keep you engaged and inspired. It’s a chance to see Boa Vista’s true face—raw, beautiful, and full of life.
FAQ
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes lunch, a guide who speaks good German, transfers from and to your hotel, and one drink.
Are there any activities I should prepare for?
Yes, you can expect to walk about 12 minutes up to Morro Negro lighthouse and participate in sandboarding in Viana Desert.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Most activities are manageable for children, but the tour may not be ideal for very young kids or those over 95 due to walking and activity levels.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What languages are available for the guide?
The guide speaks German, English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish.
Is this tour good for wildlife lovers?
Absolutely. The Turtle reserve at Ervatão beach offers a chance to see green turtles in their natural environment.
How long does the entire tour last?
It’s a full-day experience, typically running for several hours, with time allocated for each stop and some free time for relaxation.