Sal: All-Inclusive Salt Lake, Blue Eye and Shark Bay Tour

If you’re visiting Sal, Cape Verde, and looking for a way to see the island’s most captivating sights without the hassle, this half-day tour might just be your perfect fit. Combining natural wonders with a touch of adventure, it covers everything from salt lakes to sharks, offering a well-rounded snapshot of what Sal has to offer.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the expert local guides ensure you get interesting insights and tips. Second, the stops—like the iconic Blue Eye and Shark Bay—are genuinely breathtaking. Third, the value for money shines through, especially considering all entrance fees and transport are included. A possible downside is the tight schedule—if you prefer unhurried exploration, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, for those seeking an energetic overview of the island’s top spots, it’s hard to beat.

This tour suits travelers who want a concise, all-in-one experience that hits the highlights, especially first-timers and those eager to snap memorable photos. If you’re after a fun, informative trip with minimal planning, this could be your best choice.

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Key Points

Comprehensive coverage of Sal’s main attractions in half a day
All-inclusive price with entrance fees, transportation, and guide
Expert guides who provide local insights and assist with queues
Perfect for first-time visitors wanting a well-paced overview
Includes unique experiences like floating in salt lakes and watching lemon sharks
Value for money with many iconic sites in one affordable tour

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at What You Can Expect

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

Exploring the Salt Lakes at Pedra de Lume

The tour kicks off with a visit to the Salinas salt lake, set inside an extinct volcanic crater—an environment unlike anything else in the world. Sal is famous for being the world’s second-saltiest water body, after the Dead Sea, making floating effortless even for non-swimmers. We loved the way the saltwater feels almost weightless, and reviewers mention the skin-softening effect: “You’ll leave with smooth, exfoliated skin after a saltwater float.”

The tour includes skip-the-line tickets, which are especially handy because the salt lakes can get busy. As one guest noted, “We arrived early, so we had plenty of time to enjoy the salt lake without feeling rushed,” highlighting the advantage of booking a tour with pre-arranged access. Expect to spend around 30 to 45 minutes here, enough time to float comfortably and snap some photos without hurrying.

Discovering Buracona and the Blue Eye

Next, the group heads to Buracona, a natural rock formation that’s often called the “Blue Eye” because of its vibrant blue water pool. This is one of the seven wonders of the island, and you’ll understand why once you see the clear, turquoise waters framed by rugged volcanic formations. When the weather cooperates, it’s an ideal spot for swimming; reviewers have shared that “the water was warm and perfect for a quick dip,” and some even mentioned that they enjoyed the natural pool after the crowds arrived.

It’s common to experience some queues at Buracona, but guides often have priority tickets that let you bypass long lines—something a few reviews appreciated. The fata morgana illusion nearby offers a fascinating desert optical phenomenon, giving you a chance to capture truly unique photos. Expect to spend about 30 minutes here, leaving enough time for viewing and swimming if conditions are right.

The Mirage Effect at Miragem

Following Buracona, you’ll visit Miragem, a spot famous for its fata morgana effects—illusions caused by temperature and atmospheric variations that make water appear as if it’s floating or changing shape. These optical illusions are a hit with visitors, providing wonderful photo opportunities. Many reviewers have expressed how intrigued they were: “Seeing the mirage was surreal and a highlight of the trip,” one said.

This stop offers a peek into the desert’s mysterious landscape, and the guide will explain how these illusions occur. It’s a short stop but one that turns out to be more engaging than expected.

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Murdeira Bay and Lion Mountain Views

Moving on, the tour includes a scenic drive past Murdeira Bay, a protected natural reserve with striking vistas, and Lion Mountain, where you’ll get a panorama of the surrounding area. This part of the tour offers a chance to enjoy some quiet, expansive views that showcase Sal’s rugged beauty. Many guests mention appreciating these scenic drives, as they give a broader context to the island’s geography and how the different sites connect.

There's plenty more to explore in Sal

Shark Bay and Lemon Sharks in Their Natural Habitat

No doubt, the most talked-about part of this tour is Shark Bay. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to see lemon sharks swimming in the wild. The experience of standing in shallow water, watching these gentle predators glide nearby, is both exhilarating and humbling. Reviewers like “Seeing the baby lemon sharks up close was a real highlight” and “It’s incredible how calm the sharks are when swimming so close” reflect how memorable this encounter is.

Guides are attentive, ensuring safety and comfort, and most people find the experience surprisingly friendly. To make the most of it, water shoes are recommended—some guests rent them locally for a small fee, or you might bring your own. The tour’s small-group format makes it easier to get close to the water and have a relaxed viewing experience.

Practical Details: Transport, Timing, and Cost

The entire trip lasts around 4.5 to 5 hours, starting with hotel pickup around 8:45 am and returning by approximately 2:30 pm. The comfortable air-conditioned van seats around 12 people, making it easy to converse and keep the group intimate. Reviewers mention that the timing is well-managed—not too rushed at any stop, yet with enough time to enjoy each location.

At $53 per person, the tour offers excellent value, especially since it includes all entrance fees, skip-the-line tickets, and on-site assistance. Some guests have pointed out that the tour strikes a good balance between sightseeing and relaxation and that the guides—like Vanessa and Kiki—are knowledgeable, friendly, and willing to answer questions.

What to Bring and Tips

To enjoy the tour comfortably, pack essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, a sun hat, swimwear, towel, waterproof camera, and water shoes for Shark Bay. Given the rocky terrain at some sites, water shoes are recommended—they can be rented on-site for around 2 euros if you don’t have your own.

While the tour is suitable for most, it’s worth noting that people with mobility issues or wheelchair users might find some stops challenging, especially in rocky areas or uneven terrain. Also, luggage or large bags are not allowed, so plan accordingly.

Authentic Experiences and Local Insights

Guides often go beyond just pointing out sights—they share stories about Cape Verdean life, geology, and local culture. As one reviewer shared, “Our guide, Vanessa, gave us a genuine insight into local life and history,” enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing.

The Bottom Line: Who Will Love This Tour?

This all-inclusive half-day tour is perfect for those wanting to tick off multiple top attractions in a single, well-organized outing. It offers great value, especially with pre-paid skip-the-line tickets and expert guides who make each stop engaging. If you’re eager to see lemon sharks, float in a salty crater lake, and marvel at natural phenomena like the Blue Eye, this tour delivers.

It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate balanced pacing—not too rushed but comprehensive enough to feel fulfilled. Families with older children, first-time visitors, and anyone looking for a fun, authentic glimpse of Sal will find it particularly rewarding. Just remember, if you prefer a slower, more relaxed exploration, some stops might feel brief.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, and you’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned van.

Are all entrance fees covered? Yes, the tour covers all entrance fees—three for Blue Eye, six for Salinas salt lake, and others—so no surprise costs at the sites.

Can I swim at the salt lake and Blue Eye? Yes, there’s time to swim at both spots, weather permitting. The salt lake float is especially popular.

Do I need to bring water shoes? Water shoes are recommended, particularly for Shark Bay. You can rent them on site for about 2 euros if needed.

How long is the tour? The full experience lasts about 4.5 to 5 hours, from pickup in the morning to return early afternoon.

Will I have enough time at each site? Yes, the tour is designed to balance sightseeing with enough time at each stop, minimizing rushed moments.

Is the tour suitable for children? It’s generally suitable for older children who can handle walking and water activities, but those with mobility issues might find some stops challenging.

Overall, this tour offers a fantastic way to experience the highlights of Sal Island with minimal hassle. Whether you’re into natural wonders, wildlife watching, or simply soaking in beautiful views, it’s a memorable, well-priced option that’s likely to leave you with plenty of stories—and souvenirs.