Praia’s most rewarding tours combine cultural insights with local authenticity. The standout experiences include guided walks through historic Cidade Velha (a UNESCO site), and market tours in downtown Praia where you’ll rub shoulders with locals buying fresh fish and tropical fruits. I especially love the Calabaceira Valley hikes – they offer stunning views and a chance to see the real Cape Verde away from tourist zones. For cruise passengers, the full-day island tours efficiently pack in the highlights, though the private guided options allow more flexibility and local interaction. Let’s explore the best available tours in Praia.
Key Points
- The Praia and Cidade Velha Tour offers a private guided experience showcasing historical sites, museums, and cathedrals, with a traditional Pontxi drink tasting.
- The Cultural Tour on Santiago Island provides a comprehensive 4-hour exploration of Praia and Cidade Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The Calabaceira Valley Hike & Guided Tour combines a 4-hour moderate hike with guided visits to local agriculture and the São Filipe Fortress.
- The Praia City Tours offer diverse 2.5-hour experiences highlighting the city’s history, culture, and panoramic views along the Maritime Promenade.
- The Santiago Island Tours provide full-day excursions showcasing the island’s cultural and natural wonders, including vibrant markets, botanical gardens, and the Tarrafal prison museum.
Like Locals: Praia and Cidade Velha Tour + Local Pontxi Tasting
Although Praia is the bustling capital of Cape Verde, the ancient city of Cidade Velha offers a glimpse into the country’s rich history.
The “Like Locals: Praia and Cidade Velha Tour + Local Pontxi Tasting” provides a private guided experience to explore both cities. Knowledgeable guides lead visitors through museums, cathedrals, palaces, markets, and historical sites, sharing the local history. Guests can taste the traditional Pontxi drink and discover European settler buildings and fortresses.
Convenient hotel transfers are available, and the tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers to avoid crowds. Praised for its organization and informative nature, the tour has a 100% recommendation rate from 15 reviews.
Guests appreciate the friendly, professional guides and the opportunity to enjoy Cape Verde’s culture. The tour is priced from $58.85 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
Read our full review: Like Locals: Praia and Cidade Velha Tour + Local Pontxi Tasting Review
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Cultural Tour on Santiago Island
The Cultural Tour on Santiago Island offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of Cape Verde’s economic and political capital, Praia, as well as the historic city of Cidade Velha.
This 4-hour tour provides an immersive cultural experience, priced at $5776 per person. Guests can explore colorful markets, visit religious and political monuments, and discover Cidade Velha, the first city built by Europeans in the tropics south of the Sahara.
The tour includes hotel or harbor pickup and drop-off, a professional English, French, and Portuguese-speaking guide, and liability insurance. An optional 5€ entry ticket to the Fortress is available.
With an overall rating of 4.5/5 from 2 reviews, the tour received positive feedback on the guide’s friendliness and humor, though some travelers felt disappointed by the number of sights.
Travelers can book the tour with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and pay later. The guide will wait no longer than 5 minutes after the scheduled pickup time.
Read our full review: Cultural Tour on Santiago Island Review
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Santiago Island: 4-Hour Calabaceira Valley Hike & Guided Tour to Cidade Velha
For travelers seeking to enjoy the natural beauty and rich history of Santiago Island, the 4-Hour Calabaceira Valley Hike & Guided Tour to Cidade Velha offers an exceptional opportunity.
The guided trek takes visitors through the lush vegetation of Calabaceira and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Cidade Velha, providing an ideal introduction for first-time visitors. The accessible trail is suitable for hikers of all levels, with a moderate incline and distance of around 5 kilometers.
Highlights include exploring local agriculture, learning about the history of Cidade Velha, and enjoying breathtaking views at elevations up to 200 meters.
The tour includes pickup and drop-off, transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and lunch, as well as the entrance fee to the São Filipe Fortress.
With a 100% recommendation rate and positive reviews praising the memorable experiences, this tour is a must-do for those seeking to discover the natural and cultural treasures of Santiago Island.
Read our full review: Santiago Island: 4-Hour Calabaceira Valley Hike & Guided Tour to Cidade Velha Review
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Praia City Tours
Praia, the vibrant capital of Cape Verde, offers a diverse array of city tours that showcase its rich history, captivating culture, and charming local life.
One such tour, priced from €58.00 per person, takes visitors on a 2.5-hour journey through the city’s highlights. Conducted in multiple languages, including English, French, Portuguese, Spanish, and German, the tour is also wheelchair accessible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Participants will start at the Plateau, Praia, and visit key locations such as the Praia City Hall, Sucupira Market, Quebra Canela, and Terra Branca, before returning to the Plateau.
Along the way, they’ll explore the city’s history, culture, and local life, with opportunities to visit the National Ethnographic Museum and Amilcar Cabral Fondation, as well as enjoy panoramic views along the Praia Maritime Promenade. Guests can also opt for a break at a charming cafe.
The tour includes guided visits, museum tickets, and transportation, making it a comprehensive and convenient way to experience the best of Praia.
Read our full review: Praia City Tours Review
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Praia: Guided Historic Walking Tour & Lunch With Locals
While exploring the vibrant capital of Cape Verde, visitors can embark on a guided historic walking tour of Praia that offers an immersive experience into the city’s rich heritage and local culture.
The tour highlights the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Donna Maria Pia Lighthouse, the City Hall, and the Diogo Gomes Monument. Along the way, travelers will learn about Cape Verde’s fascinating history and admire the colonial architecture that lines the streets.
The tour also includes a visit to local markets, where visitors can enjoy the lively atmosphere and enjoy a delicious lunch with a sea view.
Priced from £64.27 per person, the tour accommodates a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring personalized attention from the professional guide. Pickup and drop-off are provided from accommodations in Praia, and the tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility issues.
With a rating of 4.6/5 from previous participants, this guided historic walking tour is an excellent way to discover the heart of Praia.
Read our full review: Praia: Guided Historic Walking Tour & Lunch With Locals Review
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Praia City Tour
Visitors to Praia can embark on a guided city tour to discover the vibrant capital of Cape Verde.
The Guided City Sightseeing Tour offers a 2-hour small group experience, allowing travelers to explore the city’s highlights for just £21.03.
For a more rundown, the Guided City Tour Praia & Cidade Velha provides a 4-hour tour with pickup, showcasing both the modern city center and the historic Cidade Velha district for £37.86.
Alternatively, the City Tour with Cidade Velha Visit combines the best of both worlds, covering the city’s top sights in a 4-hour small group tour with pickup for £46.27.
Those seeking an in-depth look at Cidade Velha can opt for the Highlights of Cidade Velha with Local Guide, a 3-hour small group tour with pickup for £41.22.
Regardless of the chosen tour, visitors can expect knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and the opportunity to enjoy Praia’s vibrant culture and history.
Read our full review: Praia City Tour Review
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Santiago Island: Best of Praia & Cidade Velha Tour, a World Heritage Site
Travelers seeking to explore the captivating island of Santiago in Cape Verde can embark on the “Santiago Island: Best of Praia & Cidade Velha Tour, a World Heritage Site.”
This immersive experience showcases the vibrant capital city of Praia and the historic Cidade Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tour takes visitors to key attractions like the Praia City Hall, the picturesque Cidade Velha, the Se Cathedral, and the charming Banana Street.
Exploring Cidade Velha, the first European settlement in the tropics, is a highlight of the tour. The small group format ensures personalized attention from knowledgeable guides.
Pricing starts at $63.13 per person, with the option to upgrade to a private tour. The tour includes round-trip transfers, transportation, liability insurance, and entrance fees.
With a high recommendation rate and positive customer feedback, this tour provides an enriching and immersive experience in the heart of Cape Verde.
Read our full review: Santiago Island: Best of Praia & Cidade Velha Tour, a World Heritage Site Review
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Praia: City Tour in Praia With Rural Villages
For those seeking an immersive glimpse into Praia’s vibrant cityscape and surrounding rural villages, the “Praia: City Tour in Praia With Rural Villages” excursion provides an enriching experience.
This 4-hour tour allows visitors to explore the Plateau district, the political and economic heart of Cape Verde’s capital. Highlights include the historic Praça Alexandre Albuquerque, the impressive Pro-Cathedral of Our Lady of Grace, and the lively vegetable market.
Beyond the city, the tour ventures into the mountainous landscapes surrounding São Domingos and the charming rural villages like Rui Vaz. Guided by a certified expert, the tour offers comfortable transportation and the opportunity to observe the daily life of local communities.
Priced at $63 per person, this tour is available in small groups or as a private experience. Flexible booking and a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance make this an accessible and convenient option for visitors to Praia.
Read our full review: Praia: City Tour in Praia With Rural Villages Review
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Full Day Santiago Excursion
Exploring the diverse landscapes of Santiago Island, this full-day excursion offers a comprehensive glimpse into Cape Verde’s cultural and natural wonders.
Embarking on a small-group tour of 11 travelers or fewer, guests will enjoy personalized attention as they discover vibrant markets, botanical gardens, and the Tarrafal prison museum. Immerse in the unique Rabelados village and savor the relaxation of Tarrafal Bay.
Priced from $101.65 per person, the tour includes lunch, entrance fees, and alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Pickup is available from various locations, with a start time of 9:00 am. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate. If the group size is less than 3, the guide may also serve as the driver.
With a perfect 5-star rating from 4 reviews, this excursion is praised for its stunning scenery and knowledgeable guides, providing insights into Cape Verde’s music and history.
Offering free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this full-day exploration of Santiago Island is an enticing option for visitors to Praia.
Read our full review: Full Day Santiago Excursion Review
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Beach: Private Old City Tour
After exploring the diverse landscapes and cultural treasures of Santiago Island, visitors can now enjoy the charming Old Town of Praia on a private tour. Priced at Kč 2,260 for a group of up to 4 participants, this 4-hour experience allows travelers to discover the city’s rich heritage and vibrant local culture.
Led by a knowledgeable Portuguese-speaking guide, the tour takes visitors through the cobblestone streets, showcasing the area’s colonial architecture and colorful facades. Key landmarks, including the Presidential Palace and Ethnographic Museum, provide insight into Praia’s significant role in the transatlantic slave trade and the journey towards independence.
Visitors can also enjoy the lively local markets, where they can engage with traditional crafts and sample fresh produce.
Wheelchair-accessible and with a free cancellation policy, this private tour offers a comprehensive and flexible way to explore the heart of Praia. Travelers simply need to check availability and select their preferred date and group size to secure their spot.
Read our full review: Beach: Private Old City Tour Review
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Old Town Tour
What better way to take in Praia’s rich history and vibrant culture than through the Old Town Tour? This 3.9/5-rated tour offers a chance to discover the city’s old town, with private transportation and all fees included.
Pickup is flexible, with options at the airport, hotels, port, and even private residences on Santiago Island.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and allows service animals. Infants can join, sitting on laps with infant seats available. Most travelers can participate, as this is a private tour catered to your group.
Reviewers praised the well-paced mix of old and new sights, along with the warm, knowledgeable guide.
However, some noted issues like lack of a welcome sign, small car size, air conditioning problems, and limited English proficiency of the driver.
To enhance the experience, the tour operator could focus on improving guide engagement, transportation comfort, and tour duration clarity.
Read our full review: Old Town Tour Review
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Santiago: Full-Day Island Tour for Cruise Ship Travelers
For cruise ship passengers seeking a comprehensive introduction to the wonders of Santiago Island, the “Santiago: Full-Day Island Tour” is an exceptional choice.
This 7-8 hour small group excursion provides a well-rounded exploration of the island’s top sights and experiences. Highlights include visits to the historic Cidade Velha, the scenic Tarrafal Beach, and opportunities to sample local cuisine and beverages.
With a rating of 4.7 from 85 reviews and a price of Kč 1,984 per person, this tour offers excellent value. Pickup is available, and the small group size ensures a more personalized experience.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or culture, this full-day tour has a lot to offer. With knowledgeable guides and a carefully curated itinerary, it’s the perfect way for cruise ship passengers to make the most of their time on Santiago Island.
Read our full review: Santiago: Full-Day Island Tour for Cruise Ship Travelers Review
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Private Tour in Praia, Cape Verde
Seeking to explore Praia, Cape Verde’s vibrant capital, travelers can opt for the “Private Tour in Praia, Cape Verde” excursion. Operated by International Link África, this private tour offers a personalized experience, with prices starting from $145.52 per person, depending on group size.
The tour includes private transportation, bottled water, and a provided lunch, ensuring a comfortable and refreshing experience. Guests can select their preferred pickup point and confirm the start time with the local provider, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour.
Open from 10/2/2022 to 10/22/2025, the tour is available seven days a week, from 8 AM to 5:30 PM. While not wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate.
With an impressive 4.7/5 rating based on 6 reviews, the “Private Tour in Praia, Cape Verde” offers a breathtaking adventure and a wonderful guided experience, according to past guests.
Read our full review: Private Tour in Praia, Cape Verde Review
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Recap
Praia and the surrounding area offer a variety of tours for visitors to explore the local culture, history, and natural beauty. From guided walking tours of the old city to hikes through the countryside, there’s something for every traveler. Whether you’re interested in sampling traditional Creole cuisine or learning about the island’s colonial past, these tours provide an immersive experience to truly appreciate the essence of Cape Verde.