From Praia: Full-Day Sal Island Tour

Planning a trip to Cape Verde and wondering whether a day trip to Sal Island is worth it? While I haven’t personally taken this specific tour, I’ve compiled a detailed review based on extensive research, traveler reviews, and the tour’s itinerary. This experience offers a perfect mix of stunning landscapes, local culture, and exciting wildlife encounters — all wrapped into a manageable, well-organized day.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the beautiful aerial views of Sal provided by the short flight from Praia. Second, the chance to float in the second-saltiest water in the world at Pedra Lume Salt Crater—an unusual and memorable experience. Third, the opportunity to see lemon sharks up close in Shark Bay, an activity that’s both thrilling and educational.

One consideration is the cost, at $135 per person, which includes transfers and the flight but excludes entrance fees and meals. Depending on your budget for excursions, this might be a splurge, but it’s generally a good value given the variety of highlights packed into one day.

This tour suits travelers who love adventure, natural beauty, and culture. If you’re seeking a full, varied day exploring a different Cape Verdean island, this trip offers a satisfying dose of all three.

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Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary covering both natural and cultural highlights of Sal.
Expert guides enhance the experience with local insights and safety.
Unique experiences such as floating in hypersaline water and watching lemon sharks.
Convenient logistics with hotel pickup, flights, and transfers included.
Multiple language options make it accessible to diverse travelers.
Cost includes most major activities, but entrance fees are extra.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Sal Island: What the Tour Looks Like

This full-day tour from Praia is designed for those eager to see the best of Sal with minimal hassle. It starts with a convenient hotel pickup, followed by a short drive to Nelson Mandela airport. Here begins your 40-minute flight—trust us, the aerial views of Sal’s white sands and rugged terrain are stunning and set the tone for the day ahead.

Once on the island, the adventure kicks off at Kite Beach, renowned for its soft sands and warm waters. You’ll get a sense of why Sal has become Cape Verde’s prime tourist destination—beautiful beaches, lively kite-surfing scenes, and a relaxed vibe. The guides often point out the local kite-surfing championships, giving you a taste of Sal’s sporty side.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Praia

Murdreira and Lion Mountain Views

From Kite Beach, the tour advances to Murdeira, a natural bay with breathtaking views of Lion Mountain. The guides describe this as a perfect picture spot, where you can stop for photos and soak in the gentle ocean breeze. The scenery here emphasizes Sal’s blend of desert-like plains and lush coastlines, a contrast that makes the island uniquely photogenic.

Palmeira and the Local Fishing Scene

Next, you’ll visit Palmeira, a lively fishing village. Travelers often enjoy observing the local fish markets and the daily rhythm of boats arriving with fresh catch. Many reviews highlight the authentic local atmosphere and the opportunity to chat with fishermen, which adds a layer of real Cape Verdean life to the experience.

Blue Eye and Burracona

One of the tour’s top highlights is Burracona, home to Blue Eye, one of the country’s seven wonders. This natural swimming pool, carved by volcanic activity, offers a stunning azure contrast against the rocky coast. The water here is clear and inviting, making it an ideal spot for photos or a quick swim. The guides often share stories about how this spot was formed, enriching your appreciation for the landscape.

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Pedra Lume Salt Crater Experience

The Salt Crater at Pedra Lume is where the tour earns its reputation for a truly memorable activity. Once an active salt mine, this crater features hot lagoons with water 27 times saltier than ocean water. Travelers love floating effortlessly, often mentioning how surreal it feels to relax in such an environment. One reviewer noted they used the lagoon as an outdoor bathtub, reading a book while floating comfortably.

The entrance fee here is $5, so be prepared to pay on-site. Bring your own towel and swimwear, and enjoy one of the most distinctive experiences Cape Verde offers.

There's plenty more to explore in Praia

Lunch and Water Illusions in Miragem

After the salt flats, a lunch break gives you a chance to try local cuisine or bring your own snacks. The tour then takes you to Miragem, famous for water illusions and desert landscapes. The unusual visual effects and stark terrain make this a fun stop, perfect for curious minds and photography enthusiasts.

Shark Bay and Lemon Sharks

The finale is Shark Bay, where you can observe lemon sharks in their natural environment. The guides are experienced and knowledgeable, helping you spot the sharks close to the shore. Many reviews emphasize how captivating it is to see these creatures so calmly swimming nearby—an experience that appeals especially to wildlife lovers. The liability insurance included ensures safety, but the activity isn’t suitable for those with certain health issues or mobility concerns.

Return Flight and Drop-off

After an action-packed day, you’ll fly back to Santiago Island, concluding with a drop-off at your hotel in Praia. The entire trip, including the flight and transfers, generally takes around 12 hours, so be prepared for a full but rewarding day.

Practical Tips for the Tour

Book early: The tour is popular, and spots are limited, especially during peak seasons.
Send your flight details: Remember, the flight isn’t included; make sure your local provider has your schedule.
Bring cash: Entrance fees ($3 for Blue Eye, $5 for Salinas, $2 for Shark Bay) are paid on-site.
Pack essentials: Passport, hat, sunscreen, swimwear, towel, flip-flops, and some snacks or water.
Adjust your pickup time: The schedule is flexible based on your flight, so communicate your needs for a smooth experience.
Not suitable for those with back, mobility, or heart issues, due to walking or swimming requirements.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This tour offers a well-rounded look at Sal Island’s natural wonders and local culture in just one day. Its highlights—like floating in hypersaline water or watching sharks—are unforgettable and provide plenty of photo-worthy moments. The knowledgeable guides and seamless logistics make it accessible even for travelers new to Cape Verde.

The price reflects the inclusion of flights, transfers, and guided commentary, making it a cost-effective way to see a lot without the hassle of planning individual activities. If you’re after an active, varied, and immersive Cape Verdean experience, this tour ticks all those boxes.

However, keep in mind the full-day length and physical demands, especially for those with mobility issues. It’s best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of Sal and are comfortable with some walking and water activities.

This tour is a fantastic choice for adventure-minded, curious travelers eager to explore Cape Verde’s natural beauty and wildlife in a single, well-organized day.

FAQ

Is the flight included in the tour price?
No, the $135 per person price covers transfers, activities, and guided tours, but you need to purchase your own flight tickets. You should send your flight schedule to the local partner after booking.

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring your passport, hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, flip-flops, and cash for entrance fees. Pack light but prepared for both water and sun exposure.

Are entrance fees included?
No, you will pay separate entrance fees at Blue Eye ($3), Salinas ($5), and Shark Bay ($2).

How long does the tour last?
The entire day, including flights, transfers, and activities, takes approximately 12 hours, so plan accordingly.

Is this tour suitable for kids or those with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for people with back problems, mobility impairments, or heart issues due to walking and water activities involved.

What makes the flight worthwhile?
The aerial views of Sal Island give a stunning perspective of its landscape, making the flight a highlight in itself.

Can I customize the pickup time?
Yes, pickup times are flexible and coordinated based on your flight schedule.

What is the highlight of this tour?
Many find floating in Pedra Lume’s salt lagoon or observing lemon sharks at Shark Bay to be the most memorable moments.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, guides are experienced and offer insightful commentary, enhancing your understanding of each site.

Is this tour good value for the price?
Given the variety of highlights, included flights, and transfers, it offers good value for someone wanting an all-in-one day trip to Sal.

In summary, this full-day Sal Island tour from Praia offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, scenery, and local life. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a lively, memorable day with diverse highlights, especially if seeing wildlife and unique landscapes excites you.