The three standout full-day tours in Santa Maria take visitors straight to the heart of this charming island. The Union Tour offers classic island highlights with stops at Palmeira’s colorful streets and the otherworldly salt pans of Pedra Lume. For photographers, the Private Creative Pictures tour allows plenty of time to capture the perfect shots, especially during golden hour at Shark Bay. Adventure seekers will appreciate the Jeep Safari tour, which ventures off the beaten path to explore hidden corners of the island. Each tour includes hotel pickup and expert local guides who know the best times to visit each spot while avoiding crowds. Check out these recommended tours below.
Key Points
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The Union Tour Full Day Island Tour is a highly rated option that explores the main attractions of Sal Island, though there are reported communication and dining issues.
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The Private Creative Pictures Full Day Island Tour (Off Road Inc.) offers a personalized and unique experience, including activities like saving baby turtles, with a 100% recommendation rate.
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The Union Tour Full Day Private Tour provides a flexible and personalized full-day tour with a 96% recommendation rate, though there are noted issues with photo quality.
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The Exclusive Sal Island – Full Day Personalized for You tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the island, with personalized attention and transportation, and accommodation for wheelchair, stroller, and infant seats.
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The Santa Maria Island Jeep Safari Full Day Tour is a highly rated adventure tour in small groups, featuring a picnic lunch and traditional local biscuits, snacks, and drinks.
Union Tour Full Day Island Tour
Although the Union Tour Full Day Island Tour is highly rated, with a 4.9 out of 5 based on 34 reviews, some travelers have reported issues with communication and organization.
The tour explores Sal Island’s beaches and towns with a guide, visiting Palmeira, Espargos, Pedra Lume, and Blue Eye Cave. Recommended by 97% of travelers, it’s an ideal option for those with limited time.
However, some guests have complained about a lack of communication, being assigned to unregistered local guides, and unsatisfactory dining locations.
To ensure reliability, it’s recommended to use recognized tour operators. The tour provides an enjoyable experience, but communication and organization could be improved.
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Private Creative Pictures Full Day Island Tour (Off Road Inc.)
The Private Creative Pictures Full Day Island Tour (Off Road Inc.) is a highly recommended option for those seeking a personalized island exploration experience in Santa Maria, Cape Verde.
With a 100% recommendation rate from 17 travelers, this tour offers a comprehensive package that includes an air-conditioned vehicle, creative pictures, and entrance fees to popular attractions like the Salinas, Buracona, and Shark Bay.
Accessibility is a priority, as the tour is wheelchair and stroller friendly, and service animals are allowed.
Flexibility is also a key feature, with private tours ensuring a tailored experience.
Customers praise the knowledgeable guide, Franek, and the unique opportunities, such as saving baby turtles, that make this tour a must-do activity in Santa Maria.
Read our full review: Private Creative Pictures Full Day Island Tour (Off Road Inc.) Review
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Union Tour Full Day Private Tour
Flexibility and personalization define the Union Tour Full Day Private Tour in Santa Maria, Cape Verde. Priced at $171.08 for up to 8 participants, this full-day excursion offers a comprehensive exploration of the island.
With a 5.0 rating from 24 reviews and a 96% recommendation, the tour provides a highly-rated experience. Pickup is between 9-10 AM, and drop-off is at the same hotel.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour accommodates strollers and service animals. However, it’s not recommended for travelers with back problems.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour. Feedback highlights a great host and good communication, but some issues with the quality of provided photos.
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Exclusive Sal Island – Full Day Personalized for You
Priced from €14.00 per person for basic activities, the Exclusive Sal Island – Full Day Personalized for You tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the island.
With a 4.8 rating from 9 reviews, this private tour offers personalized attention and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
Highlights include visiting the Blue Eye, Salinas Pedra de Lume, and Shark Bay, with entrance fees ranging from €3.00 to €6.00 per person.
Pickup is available from various locations, and the tour starts at 9:00 am.
Wheelchair, stroller, and infant seat accommodations are available.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and a Reserve Now and Pay Later option is offered.
Read our full review: Exclusive Sal Island – Full Day Personalized for You Review
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Santa Maria Island Jeep Safari Full Day Tour
This exciting Santa Maria Island Jeep Safari Full Day Tour provides adventurous travelers with a comprehensive exploration of the island’s diverse landscapes and cultural highlights.
Rated 5.0 out of 7 reviews, the tour offers a full-day adventure in a small group of up to 8 participants. Highlights include a picnic lunch with a scenic view, traditional local biscuits, and snacks and drinks.
Pickups are available from select locations, with additional charges for those outside the designated areas. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers.
Previous participants have praised the knowledgeable and engaging tour guide, making this an excellent choice for experiencing the best of Santa Maria.
Read our full review: Santa Maria Island Jeep Safari Full Day Tour Review
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Small Group Full Day Island Tour in Sal
The Small Group Full Day Island Tour in Sal whisks travelers on an immersive exploration of Santa Maria’s diverse landscapes. For $41.70 per person, visitors embark on this small-group excursion, which includes hotel/port pickup, an air-conditioned vehicle, a knowledgeable local guide, and lunch.
The tour accommodates up to 15 guests and boasts a 4.1-star rating based on 10 reviews, with highlights including paddling with sharks and visiting the Blue Eye.
While some travelers have noted concerns about vehicle conditions and miscommunication around entrance fees, the guides’ care and attention during the tour have generally impressed participants.
This tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, and it’s conveniently located near public transportation.
Read our full review: Small Group Full Day Island Tour in Sal Review
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The Sum Up
Santa Maria offers an array of full-day tours to explore the island’s stunning natural beauty. From off-road adventures to personalized private tours, visitors can customize their experience to suit their interests. These tours provide a comprehensive introduction to the island’s highlights, allowing travelers to make the most of their time in this captivating destination.