From Sal Island: Blu eye, Salt lake, Lemon Sharks & Palmeira

If you’re planning a trip to Sal Island in Cape Verde and are looking for an experience that covers the island’s natural beauty, this full-day tour might just be what you need. Guided by knowledgeable locals, you’ll get a good taste of Sal’s highlights — from stunning geological formations to incredible wildlife encounters.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the way it combines diverse sites, like the iconic Blue Eye and the Salt Pans, with the thrill of spotting lemon sharks in their natural habitat and exploring the lively fishing village of Palmeira. It’s a full-on adventure that offers variety and authentic moments.

That said, a few considerations are worth noting. Entrance fees for some attractions like the Salt Mine and Blue Eye are not included, so you should budget extra cash. Plus, the tour’s duration (around 8 hours) could feel long if you prefer more relaxed pacing.

This experience works best for travelers who love nature, local culture, and a bit of adventure — especially those eager to see the island from multiple angles in one day.

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Key Points

Diverse Itinerary: Combines natural wonders, wildlife, and local culture in one trip.
Knowledgeable Guides: Tours led by friendly, multilingual guides who go the extra mile.
Value for Money: Despite some extra fees, the overall cost is reasonable considering the scope.
Authentic Experiences: Opportunities to interact with locals and see real Cape Verde life.
Active & Fun: Swimming, snorkeling, and wildlife spotting keep the tour engaging.
Important Extras: Entrance fees and food are not included, so plan accordingly.

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A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Looking for more options in Sal? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Starting the Day: Pickup and Southbound Drive

The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup around 9 am, in an air-conditioned minibus. The small group size (up to 12 people) means you’ll get a more personal experience, and guides like Yannick and José Flor tend to be quite attentive and informative, as reviews highlight.

As you leave Santa Maria, you’ll quickly see the pontoon and salt pans, giving you a first glimpse into Sal’s longstanding salt mining tradition. The drive along the southern coast offers scenic views and a chance to understand how important salt production is to the island’s economy.

Murdeira Bay and Palmeira

Next stop is Murdeira Bay — a refreshing spot where you can dip into cool waters and relax for a moment. Travelers love swimming here, describing it as a “beautiful and peaceful” place, perfect for a quick cool-off.

From there, the tour heads to Palmeira, a lively fishing village packed with local character. Reviewers mention the charm of wandering around the fish market and nearby shops; it’s a slice of authentic Cape Verdean life. Some people find the visit to Palmeira a bit brief, as it mainly offers a quick taste, but it’s enough to appreciate the local vibe.

Buracona and the Blue Eye

One of the tour’s star attractions is the Blue Eye in Buracona. This natural lagoon is famed for its striking blue waters, created by a natural stone formation. The view is stunning, and many guests say it’s worth the small entrance fee (around 3 euros).

While the Blue Eye can get crowded, the wild beauty of the site keeps it captivating. Reviewers like Dina and Lucia highlight how memorable the Blue Eye is, especially when framed by the clear, bright sky — perfect for photos.

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Salt Pans & Floating Lagoons

Next, the tour takes you to the Pedra de Lume Salt Pans, where you can float in mineral-rich lagoons similar to the Dead Sea. Guests rave about the natural skin benefits of the salt waters, describing it as a “perfect opportunity to tone your skin naturally.” The salt pans are evocative of Sal’s volcanic landscape, offering a wild, otherworldly backdrop.

The entrance fee (about 6 euros) is payable on the spot, so keep small bills handy. Reviewers mention that the experience exceeds expectations, with some noting the opportunity to take fun photos floating effortlessly.

There's plenty more to explore in Sal

Mirador and the Terra Boa Desert

Climbing up to a viewpoint provides a panoramic look at the island, and guests often describe the landscape as surprisingly dramatic — like a semi-arid moonscape. The Terra Boa desert nearby features mirages and sandy vistas that add an almost surreal dimension to the trip.

Espargos and Lunch Break

The journey continues with a stop in Espargos, the island’s administrative capital. You’ll have about an hour to grab lunch independently. Many recommend local eateries, and some reviews mention that the food quality is good — especially the octopus rice. Keep in mind that food and drinks are not included in the tour price, so bringing cash and planning ahead helps.

Parda Bay and Lemon Sharks

In the afternoon, the tour moves to Parda Bay, a key spot for observing lemon sharks in their natural habitat. Reports indicate that seeing these sharks up close was a major highlight for many, with some describing the experience as “magical.”

Yannick, the guide, is often praised for his explanations about the sharks and local ecology. Several reviewers mention that timing was adjusted based on water temperature and shark activity, showing the guides’ flexibility and knowledge.

Yuri, another guide, reportedly went above and beyond by showing guests extra viewpoints, such as the radar viewpoint with sweeping island views, adding extra value to the trip.

Final Stops and Return

Before heading back, the group visits the lagoons near Pedra de Luma, where floating in salt waters offers a natural, relaxing experience — perfect for unwinding after a busy day.

The return trip to your hotel is scheduled for around 5 pm, wrapping up a full, active day on Sal. Reviewers appreciate the well-organized timing, though some note the overall length makes it a slightly long day, especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace.

The Value of This Tour

At $37 per person, this tour packs in a diverse range of experiences that highlight both natural beauty and local culture. While some attractions like the Blue Eye and Salt Mine require small additional entrance fees (around 3 to 6 euros), the overall value remains solid considering the number of sites visited, the guide’s insights, and the included transportation.

Guests frequently praise the knowledgeable guides like Yannick, Aniceto, and José, who not only explain the sites but also share interesting local tidbits, making the experience richer. Many reviews mention how guides made the day fun, engaging, and personalized, even accommodating different languages.

Food options are not included, but the tour does take you to a local restaurant where many guests enjoy Cape Verdean dishes like octopus rice. The small group size means you’ll get a more intimate experience, and the flexible timing allows for photo opportunities and brief moments of relaxation.

What to Bring & Additional Tips

Travelers are advised to bring essentials such as sunscreen, hat, camera, snacks, cash for optional entrance fees, and water. Comfortable clothes and sandals are recommended, especially for the salt lagoons and salt pans.

Since dogs, weapons, alcohol, and feeding animals are prohibited, it’s best to leave these behind. Also, if you have children, note that the tour isn’t suitable for those over 95 years or people with epilepsy or visual impairments.

Final Considerations

While the tour offers an excellent overview of Sal, the extra fees for attractions might catch some off guard if not prepared. Also, depending on the weather — especially the sun — the experience can involve a lot of outdoor exposure, so proper sun protection is vital.

Some guests found the day a bit long, particularly if they prefer more leisurely sightseeing, but most agree that the variety of sites and the friendly guides make it worth the effort.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventurers and nature lovers who want a comprehensive look at Sal’s natural and cultural highlights in one day. It’s ideal for travelers eager to swim in salt lagoons, observe wildlife like lemon sharks, and explore local villages.

Those who appreciate informative guides, like Yannick or José, will find the knowledge-sharing especially valuable. It also suits families and small groups looking for a fun, active day out with opportunities to take memorable photos.

If your goal is to relax with minimal walking or sightseeing, you might find this tour a bit busy. However, for the curious and enthusiastic, it offers a well-rounded and authentic taste of Sal.

FAQ: Your Top Questions Answered

Are entrance fees included? No, entrance fees to sites like Pedra de Lume Salt Mine and Buracona are paid separately, around 3 to 6 euros, so bring cash.

How long is the tour? Expect around 8 hours from pickup at 9 am to return at approximately 5 pm. It’s a full day of sightseeing and activities.

Is food included? No, meals are not included. The tour takes you to a local restaurant where you can buy lunch, with some reviewers recommending the octopus rice.

What should I bring? Sun protection (sunscreen, hat), water, camera, snacks, cash for extras, comfortable clothes, and sandals or water shoes for salt lagoons.

Can I swim or snorkel? Yes, many stops involve swimming in salt lakes, salt pans, and Murdeira Bay. Snorkeling gear isn’t specified but bring your gear if you want.

Is this tour suitable for children? The tour is family-friendly, but check with the provider if you have very young children or specific needs. The guides are very accommodating.

How many people are in each group? Up to 12, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Are guide explanations in multiple languages? Yes, guides speak English, French, Portuguese, Italian, and Spanish.

What are the main highlights? The Blue Eye, Salt Pans, Lemon Sharks, and the vibrant Palmeira village.

What if I don’t want to do certain stops? Discuss with your guide. Most stops are flexible, but some entrance fees are separate, and the itinerary is optimized for the whole group.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of natural scenery, wildlife, and local culture, making it a good choice for those who want to see the best of Sal in one day. The guides receive high praise for their friendliness and knowledge, which elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing.

While there are some extra costs for certain attractions, the overall price is reasonable for the scope of activities and the small-group approach. If you’re after a lively, informative, and immersive day exploring Sal’s highlights, this tour is definitely worth considering.

Ideal for curious travelers eager to discover the island’s natural beauty and authentic culture with an engaging guide and a good dose of adventure. Just remember to pack your cash, sun protection, and a sense of curiosity.