Murdeira: Sal Island Nature Reserve and Fishing Village Tour

If you’re looking to get a well-rounded taste of Cape Verde’s Sal Island without feeling rushed or overwhelmed, this tour offers a balanced mix of nature, culture, and relaxation. While I haven’t personally taken it, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a fantastic way to see some of the island’s most celebrated sights.

What immediately stands out are the stunning natural pools of Blue Eye, the charm of the fishing village of Palmeira, and the chance to relax in thermal waters at Pedra de Lume. The knowledgeable guides seem to make all the difference, sharing insights into the local way of life and the island’s unique geology. The tour is designed to be flexible and engaging, with opportunities for swimming, photo stops, and cultural exploration.

One thing to consider is that this experience isn’t a full-day adventure—it’s a half-day tour. So, if you’re hoping for a long, in-depth exploration, you might want to combine it with other activities. This tour seems best suited for travelers seeking a comfortable, insightful, and scenic overview of Sal in a small-group setting.

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Key Points

Balanced mix of nature, culture, and relaxation in a half-day format
Small-group experience for more personalized attention
Stunning natural pools and scenic views for memorable photos
Informative guides with local knowledge and friendly demeanor
Great value at $50 per person, including transportation and insurance
Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

This tour offers a well-paced journey through some of Sal Island’s most captivating spots, combining scenic beauty with authentic local flavor.

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

Pickup and Start of the Day

You’ll be picked up from your accommodation, whether in Santa Maria or Murdeira. The pickup is described as reliable, so you won’t have to worry about last-minute delays. Expect a comfortable ride in a smaller group vehicle, which makes the experience feel intimate and personalized. The small-group nature means you’ll have plenty of chances to ask questions and take photos without the chaos of large tour buses.

Salt Lake and Murdeira: Nature’s Serenity

The first stop is Salt Lake, a highlight for many visitors. Here, you’ll see the expansive salt flats that have been an important part of the island’s economy for generations. You might find the views from the salt pan mesmerizing—especially if the weather is clear. The tour description emphasizes swimming in thermal waters at Pedra de Lume, which is below sea level. This part of the tour offers a unique experience of floating in warm, mineral-rich waters that are believed to be rejuvenating.

A quick visit to Murdeira allows for some fantastic photos of a serene bay within the nature reserve. The panoramic views of Lion Mountain serve as a beautiful backdrop for photos and peaceful moments. Reviewers have noted that these scenic stops are a perfect way to relax and soak in the natural beauty of the island.

Blue Eye: A Natural Wonder

Off-road access takes you to Buracona’s Blue Eye, often described as one of the island’s most awe-inspiring sights. The natural pool here is famous for its vivid blue color, created by sunlight filtering through a hole in the rock. If the weather permits, you’ll have the chance to take a dip in its cool, clear waters. This stop seems to be one of the favorite parts of the tour, with travelers often mentioning the stunning views and the refreshing swim as highlights.

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Fishing Village of Palmeira

Next, the tour ventures to Palmeira, a lively fishing village where you’ll get a glimpse of local life. Browsing the small streets, you can observe fishermen returning with their catch or simply enjoy the laid-back vibe. Travelers have appreciated this stop for offering a true taste of local Cape Verdean culture—something that larger, more commercial tours might overlook.

There's plenty more to explore in Sal

Espargos and Lunch Break

After some sightseeing, the journey continues to Espargos, the island’s capital. Known for its vibrant street art—and a lively atmosphere—this town offers a glimpse into the everyday life of Sal residents. The tour includes a well-prepared local lunch, giving you a chance to indulge in Cape Verdean flavors. Reviewers have praised the food for its quality and authenticity, noting that the experience is both tasty and culturally enriching.

Shark Bay: Encounter with Lemon Sharks

One of the tour’s most talked-about highlights is Shark Bay. Yes, you read that right—lemon sharks in their natural environment. These gentle creatures pose no threat, and many reviews mention how exciting it is to see them up close. It offers a rare opportunity to observe wildlife in a safe, natural setting. The experience is often described as “a must-do”, with guides providing interesting facts about the sharks and their habits.

Final Stop at Pedra de Lume

The tour wraps up at Pedra de Lume, famous for its salt pans below sea level. Here, you can swim or float in the thermal waters, which is a relaxing way to end the day. The mineral-rich waters are believed to have skin benefits, and many visitors find the experience soothing after a busy morning of sightseeing.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Based on reviews and the detailed itinerary, several aspects make this experience particularly appealing:

Knowledgeable guides like Alejandro and Mr. Dias are frequently praised for their friendliness, humor, and depth of local knowledge. They are adept at answering questions and providing context that enriches each stop—something that really elevates the tour beyond just a sightseeing list.

The variety of stops keeps the day interesting, with a good balance of natural beauty, local culture, and wildlife encounters. The inclusion of Salt Lake, Blue Eye, Palmeira, Shark Bay, and Pedra de Lume covers the island’s most iconic sights, making it a rundown.

The opportunity to swim in thermal waters and natural pools adds a fun, refreshing element to the tour. It’s not just about looking at sights but actively engaging with the environment, which travelers love.

Small group size ensures a more personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities for questions, photos, and relaxed pacing.

The value for money at $50 per person is considered reasonable, especially considering the inclusions like transportation, a live guide, and liability insurance. The lunch is an optional extra, allowing for flexibility depending on your budget.

Practical Details for Your Trip

The tour is designed to fit comfortably into a half-day schedule, making it ideal for travelers who want to see highlights without dedicating an entire day. The pickup service is dependable, and the transportation is included, so there’s no need to worry about logistics.

Participants should bring essentials such as a towel, hat, swimwear, and sandals for swimming and relaxing at the pools. The tour is offered in multiple languages, including Portuguese, French, and English, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers.

Booking is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour, providing peace of mind for spontaneous plans or unforeseen changes.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic views, wildlife, and authentic local culture. It’s also great for those who prefer small-group settings for a more personalized, relaxed experience.

If you’re curious about Cape Verdean life, love discovering natural wonders, or just want a fun, scenic day out with some swimming and photo ops, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s particularly appealing if you’re traveling with family, friends, or as a couple looking for a comfortable but engaging way to explore Sal.

While it may not be ideal for travelers seeking a full-day or more intense adventure, it offers excellent value for a half-day journey packed with diversity and authentic sights.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Santa Maria or Murdeira are included, so you won’t need to arrange your own transport.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is designed to be a half-day experience, with pickup and drop-off included, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop.

Do I need to bring anything?
Yes, bring a towel, hat, swimwear, and sandals for swimming and comfort during stops.

What languages are available for the guide?
Guides speak Portuguese, French, and English, ensuring clear communication regardless of your preferred language.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for spontaneous changes.

Are the natural pools safe for swimming?
Yes, if weather conditions are suitable, you can enjoy swimming in the Blue Eye and Pedra de Lume’s thermal waters, which are safe and relaxing.

Is lunch included in the price?
No, lunch is an additional cost ($12 per person), but the tour includes a stop where you can enjoy a local meal if you choose.

This tour offers a well-curated, engaging snapshot of Sal Island’s most loved sights, guided by friendly experts and suited for travelers seeking a mix of adventure and culture.