Sal Rei, Santa Monica Beach, Caves, Dunes & Shipwreck Tour

Exploring Boa Vista: A Tour of Caves, Dunes, and Shipwrecks

When it comes to experiencing the authentic charm of Boa Vista, Cape Verde, this Sal Rei, Santa Monica Beach, Caves, Dunes & Shipwreck Tour stands out as a fantastic option. While we haven’t taken the tour ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it offers a well-rounded glimpse of the island’s natural beauty and intriguing history. From the expansive sands of Santa Monica Beach to the mysterious wreck of the MS Cabo Santa Maria, this journey promises a memorable day for those seeking authentic sights and local insights.

What we love about this experience is its small group setting, which tends to foster a relaxed atmosphere and personalized attention. The knowledgeable local guides, like José, bring the island’s stories to life, making the journey both fun and educational. Plus, the variety of stops, from stunning beaches to rolling desert dunes, ensures you’ll see many sides of Boa Vista. However, keep in mind that the tour’s price—$94 per person—while quite reasonable, doesn’t include food or drinks, so you might want to pack snacks or plan to dine locally afterward.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a rundown of the island’s highlights in a single day, especially if you’re curious about the natural landscapes and local history without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. It’s ideal for those who prefer small groups for a more intimate experience and are eager to learn from guides who genuinely know the island well.

Key Points

• Small group size enhances intimacy and personalized storytelling
• Experienced local guides provide insightful context about the island’s history and nature
• Diverse stops cover beaches, dunes, caves, and a famous shipwreck
• Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned, certified vehicles
• Authentic local lunch by the beach creates memorable moments
• Flexible booking options with full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why This Tour Can Be a Highlight of Your Boa Vista Trip

The Sal Rei, Santa Monica Beach, Caves, Dunes & Shipwreck Tour shines in how it combines several of the island’s most captivating attractions in a single day. The experience begins with a convenient pick-up outside your accommodation—though note that some hotels like Riu Touareg incur additional charges for pick-up and drop-off, which is something to consider when planning your budget.

Exploring Varandinha Beach and Sand Cave

Your adventure kicks off at Varandinha Beach, a peaceful stretch of white sand, renowned for its tranquility. This beach is delineated by striking rocks that carve the sand into smaller coves, creating a picturesque setting. The nearby Sand Cave adds an element of intrigue—peaceful, yet a fascinating natural formation that invites exploration. Reviewers appreciate this stop for its serenity and natural beauty, with one noting it as a “paradisiacal” beach that offers a perfect escape from city stress.

Santa Monica Beach: Nature’s Playground

The next major highlight is Santa Monica Beach, often described as Cape Verde’s most beautiful stretch of sand. Spanning 18 miles of deserted white sands, it’s an ideal place to walk barefoot, soak up the sun, and disconnect. You might also get lucky and spot sea turtles and sharks swimming along the coast in season, adding a unique wildlife touch to your visit. Multiple reviews mention how this beach feels like a true escape, where you can relax away from crowds and enjoy the vastness of the Atlantic.

The Viana Desert Dunes

A visit to Viana Desert provides a dramatic contrast to the beaches. The white sand dunes stretch across the landscape, punctuated by tiny oases with acacia, coconut, and date palms. This scene reminds us that Boa Vista’s desert is a mini Sahara, offering stunning photo opportunities and a chance to see nature’s resilience. Visitors often express awe at the landscape’s simplicity and purity, with one reviewer describing it as “beautiful” and “worth a visit.”

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The Shipwreck of MS Cabo Santa Maria

A truly iconic stop on this tour is the shipwreck of MS Cabo Santa Maria, resting off the coast at Praia de Atlanta. The rusted cargo ship has been lying here for over 50 years, gradually dismantled by the sea. It’s a haunting, photogenic relic that resonates with history and mystery. Reviewers like Björn describe it as “impressive,” and many find it a highlight due to the story it carries. The shipwreck’s location offers striking views, especially when framed against the Atlantic sunset, making it a favorite for photography enthusiasts.

Authentic Local Life and Leisure in Sal Rei

The day wraps up with free time in Sal Rei, where you can explore the town or relax on the main beach. The town’s lively yet laid-back vibe is a perfect place to soak in local culture or dip your toes in the water before heading back. The guide typically ensures that everyone is comfortable and has the option to swim or unwind before the return journey.

Practical Details: Transport, Timing, and Cost

Transportation is in certified, air-conditioned vehicles, ensuring comfort during the approximately full-day excursion. The tour generally lasts a full day, with pick-up and drop-off included in the price. The cost is $94 per person, which on the surface might seem modest, but given the variety of sites visited, the small group setting, and the included guide, this fee offers good value. Food and drinks are not included, so packing snacks or having some cash for a local meal is advisable.

What Reviewers Say

• Authentic insights: Visitors highlight how guides like José share stories about the island’s culture and history, making the trip educational and engaging. One reviewer mentions that their guide “told us a lot about the country and the islands.”
• Size matters: The small group size is frequently praised for making the tour more personal and stress-free. As Björn notes, “everything ran smoothly, and the small group meant no rush.”
• Value for money: Many reviewers feel the tour is worth every cent, especially since it covers so many different sites in one day. One said, “the trip was really great,” thanks to the friendly guide and comprehensive experience.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This adventure is best suited for travelers who want to see a broad spectrum of Boa Vista’s highlights without the hassle of multiple bookings. It’s perfect if you appreciate informative guides, enjoy natural landscapes, and want to combine beach time with a touch of history. The small-group setting makes it ideal for those seeking a more personal, relaxed experience—and for anyone who loves a mix of adventure, nature, and local culture.

The Sum Up: A Robust Day Out for Curious Travelers

This tour offers an excellent mix of natural beauty, history, and local culture wrapped into one package. The combination of beaches, dunes, caves, and a shipwreck ensures that you’ll leave with a well-rounded impression of Boa Vista. The expert guidance and small-group atmosphere make it a comfortable way to explore the island’s diverse landscapes.

For those who value authentic experiences and want to maximize their time, this tour provides a great balance of variety and depth. The price is reasonable considering the number of sites visited and the level of local insight provided. If you want a day that’s both fun and informative, this trip could be just the thing.

However, travelers should remember that food and drinks aren’t included, so bringing some snacks might keep you energized through the day. Also, if you’re staying at Riu Touareg, be prepared for an extra fee for pickup and drop-off, which is a small additional cost for the convenience.

This tour is an excellent choice for curious explorers who want to see the best of Boa Vista with a welcoming guide, a small group, and a variety of unforgettable sights.

FAQ: Practical Questions About the Tour

What is the cost of this tour?
It costs $94 per person, which offers good value considering the multiple stops and guided experience.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, transportation in certified, air-conditioned vehicles is included from your accommodation.

What’s the duration of the tour?
It’s a full-day tour, designed to give you ample time at each site with convenient pick-up and drop-off.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so bring snacks or plan to buy food at local spots.

Is it suitable for children or families?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s relaxed pace and diverse stops generally suit families, but check with the provider for age-specific recommendations.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak English, French, Portuguese, Italian, and German, making it accessible for many travelers.

Is the tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
The information doesn’t specify, but given the variety of terrains and natural sites, it’s best to inquire directly if mobility is a concern.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, water, snacks, and possibly a towel if you plan to swim or relax on beaches.

Is the tour available for last-minute bookings?
Yes, you can reserve with the option to pay later, but it’s recommended to book in advance to secure your spot.

This comprehensive, balanced review aims to give you all the insights necessary to determine if this tour aligns with your travel style. It promises an authentic look at Boa Vista’s natural wonders with an expert guide, all in a friendly, small-group setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: