Santa Maria’s most rewarding tours combine natural wonders with local expertise. The best excursions feature hotel pickups and knowledgeable guides who understand the island’s rhythms. I’m especially fond of the salt crater tours at Pedra Lume – it’s a fascinating window into Cape Verde’s geological heritage. The Blue Eye Cave excursions are equally compelling, and the thermal water swims offer a unique island experience you won’t find elsewhere.
Small-group options really shine here, particularly the jeep safaris that get you off the beaten path. Photography tours capture the island’s essence while keeping groups intimate.
Let’s explore the standout tours that showcase the best of Santa Maria.
Key Points
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The All Inclusive Full-Day Tour offers a comprehensive experience with hotel pickup/drop-off, certified guide, air-conditioned vehicle, lunch, and drinks for up to 24 travelers.
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The Union Tour Full Day Island Tour provides a 97% recommendation rate, highlighting top attractions like Palmeira, Espargos, Pedra Lume salt crater, and Blue Eye Cave.
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The Small Group Full Day Island Tour accommodates up to 15 travelers, including hotel/port pickup, local guide, air-conditioned transport, and lunch for an immersive cultural experience.
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The Private Sal Island Tour offers a tailored experience for up to 2 people, with 100% traveler recommendation and accessibility for strollers and service animals.
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The Santa Maria Island Jeep Safari Full Day Tour features a scenic picnic lunch, traditional local biscuits, and a 5.0-star rating from 7 reviews for an intimate, off-the-beaten-path exploration.
All Inclusive Full-Day Tour in Sal Island (Lunch and All Fees Included)
For travelers seeking a comprehensive and stress-free exploration of Sal Island, the All Inclusive Full-Day Tour is an excellent choice. This full-day excursion boasts a 93% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, making it a top pick for families and adventurers alike.
The tour includes convenient hotel pickup and drop-off, a certified guide, and an air-conditioned vehicle. Guests can expect to visit a variety of highlights, from the stunning Ponta Preta beach to the natural pools of Buracona.
Lunch, soda, and one alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink are provided, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
With a maximum of 24 travelers per tour and a start time of 9:15 am, this immersive experience lasts approximately 7.5 hours. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, guests can enjoy the diverse activities and cultural insights shared by the knowledgeable guide.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance allows for flexibility in planning.
Read our full review: All Inclusive Full-Day Tour in Sal Island (Lunch and All Fees Included) Review
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Island Tour With a Local Guide
Travelers seeking a comprehensive exploration of Sal Island can embark on the popular Island Tour with a Local Guide. This 140-review, 100% recommended tour offers an immersive experience, covering major sites and unique activities.
Joined by a friendly and professional guide, guests will explore the island’s local culture and customs, avoiding typical tourist traps.
The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, all fees and taxes, as well as a complimentary lunch. Guests can also opt for additional experiences like wading with sharks or visiting the Buracona (Blue Eye) and Salinas Pedra Lume (Salt Lakes) sites for a small fee.
With a maximum of 20 participants, the small group size ensures personalized attention.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly, and infant seats are available. However, it isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.
Read our full review: Island Tour With a Local Guide Review
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Private Sal Island Tour Authentic Experience From Santa Maria
Visitors seeking an immersive and personalized exploration of Sal Island can embark on the Private Sal Island Tour Authentic Experience From Santa Maria. Featuring a 100% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this private tour offers a tailored service based on group preferences.
Inclusive of private transportation, a knowledgeable local guide, and a certificate, the tour promises a memorable experience.
The tour’s accessibility allows for pickup from hotels, the airport, or an agreed location. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and permits service animals. Infant seats are available, though not recommended for travelers with back problems or pregnant women in the first three months.
Priced at €199.00 per group (up to 2), the tour offers a lowest price guarantee and flexible booking options.
With an average rating of 4.9 based on 47 reviews, the tour’s highlights include knowledgeable guides, well-organized itineraries, and unique experiences, such as encounters with sharks and visits to the Salinas.
Read our full review: Private Sal Island Tour Authentic Experience From Santa Maria Review
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Union Tour Full Day Island Tour
The Union Tour Full Day Island Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of Sal Island’s picturesque landscapes and charming towns. With 34 reviews and a 97% recommendation rate, this guided tour is ideal for travelers with limited time.
The tour covers the highlights of the island, including the coastal town of Palmeira, the capital Espargos, the unique Pedra Lume salt crater, and the mesmerizing Blue Eye Cave.
Priced at $27.91 per person, the tour provides excellent value for money. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as a knowledgeable guide to bring the destinations to life.
The tour runs from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM on Mondays and 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Tuesday through Sunday, ensuring flexibility for travelers. While the tour is stroller-accessible and offers infant seats, it isn’t recommended for those with back problems or wheelchair users.
Travelers can take advantage of the Lowest Price Guarantee and the option to reserve now and pay later, making the booking process convenient.
Read our full review: Union Tour Full Day Island Tour Review
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BEST VALUE Small Group Island Tour W/Shark Experience & Salt Lake
For travelers seeking a comprehensive island adventure in Santa Maria, the BEST VALUE Small Group Island Tour with Shark Experience & Salt Lake offers an exceptional experience. This highly-rated 4.5-star tour provides an opportunity to explore Cape Verde’s unique attractions, including Shark Bay and the picturesque salt pans.
The tour accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers and is offered in multiple languages, ensuring a comfortable and informative experience for all participants. Highlights include observing sharks in their natural habitat, experiencing local life and cuisine, and engaging in activities like floating in salt pans and swimming in a natural pool.
While the tour doesn’t include entrance fees to Buracona and Salinas, the private transportation, guide services, and liability insurance are all covered. Guests should come prepared with necessary items like water, sunscreen, and swimwear.
With a convenient cancellation policy and accessibility near public transportation, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking a well-rounded island adventure in Santa Maria.
Read our full review: BEST VALUE Small Group Island Tour W/Shark Experience & Salt Lake Review
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Full-Day Tour – Salt Mine, Blue Eye, Shark Watch and Kite Beach
This full-day tour offers travelers a chance to enjoy the diverse natural wonders of Santa Maria. The tour includes visits to the captivating Salt Mine, the stunning Blue Eye, the thrilling Shark Watch, and the lively Kite Beach.
Led by a local guide fluent in your mother tongue, the tour accommodates a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
Priced from $41.87 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, First Aid equipment, and liability insurance. Entrance fees for the various attractions are also covered, though lunch costs between 8€ and 12€.
With a Badge of Excellence from Santa Maria, Cape Verde, this tour offers excellent value for money.
Pickup service operates between 8:45 and 9:15 AM, with the tour beginning at 9:00 AM. However, the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions, as it isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Read our full review: Full-Day Tour – Salt Mine, Blue Eye, Shark Watch and Kite Beach Review
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Private Creative Pictures Full Day Island Tour (Off Road Inc.)
Embarking on a captivating Private Creative Pictures Full Day Island Tour (Off Road Inc.) in Santa Maria, Cape Verde, visitors can expect an immersive exploration of the island’s natural wonders.
With a 5.0-star rating and 100% recommendation from travelers, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. Priced at SEK 1,001.29 per person, the tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, creative picture-taking, and entrance fees to popular sites like the Salinas, Buracona, and Shark Bay.
Led by a knowledgeable and friendly guide, the tour offers unique experiences, such as the opportunity to save baby turtles. Guests can also enjoy personalized adjustments to the schedule, allowing for a more relaxed and tailored experience.
Accessible to wheelchair users, stroller-friendly, and with infant seats available, the tour caters to a wide range of travelers, though it’s not recommended for those with back problems.
With positive reviews highlighting the informative nature of the tour and the small group size, this Private Creative Pictures Full Day Island Tour is a must-consider for visitors to Santa Maria, Cape Verde.
Read our full review: Private Creative Pictures Full Day Island Tour (Off Road Inc.) Review
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Private Half-Day Island Tour With Shark Watching Experience From Santa Maria
Though the Private Creative Pictures Full Day Island Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Santa Maria’s natural wonders, the Private Half-Day Island Tour with Shark Watching Experience provides a more focused and efficient option for visitors.
This 4-hour adventure showcases the island’s top highlights, including the stunning beaches and natural swimming holes of Burracona, the Terra Boa mirage, and a close encounter with sharks. Priced at $314 for up to 8 people, the tour offers exceptional value, with personalized attention from a knowledgeable private guide and convenient hotel pickup and drop-off.
Visitors can expect to visit the Salinas of Pedra de Lume, Burracona, and a nearby volcano, seeing Cape Verde’s captivating landscapes.
With a 5-star rating and 100% recommendation from past travelers, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking an unforgettable half-day adventure in Santa Maria.
Read our full review: Private Half-Day Island Tour With Shark Watching Experience From Santa Maria Review
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Union Tour Full Day Private Tour
Visitors seeking an immersive exploration of Sal Island can embark on the Union Tour Full Day Private Tour, which offers a comprehensive introduction to the island’s history, culture, and natural wonders.
Boasting a stellar 4.8/5 rating from 26 reviews, the tour is led by knowledgeable private guides who tailor the itinerary to the group’s interests.
The tour highlights include swimming in the picturesque Blue Eye natural pool, getting close to lemon sharks in Shark Bay, and visiting small villages to experience local life. Guests can also opt for a local lunch in Espargos, an additional cost.
With pickup and drop-off from the same hotel, the tour provides seamless logistics.
While the tour receives overwhelmingly positive feedback for its excellent hosts and flexibility, some travelers have reported issues with the quality of the provided photography and concerns about the comfort of the vehicle.
The Union Tour Full Day Private Tour remains a highly recommended way to discover the captivating sights and attractions of Sal Island.
Read our full review: Union Tour Full Day Private Tour Review
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Sal Island: 3-Hour Private Tour With Floating in Salt Lake & Shark Watching
This 3-hour private tour of Sal Island provides travelers with a captivating glimpse into the island’s natural wonders.
The tour includes visits to Santa Maria, Murdeira Bay (where loggerhead sea turtles mate from June to October), and the Pedra de Lume salt mines, located in an extinct volcano. Guests will have the unique opportunity to float in the salty waters of the Pedra de Lume crater, an unforgettable experience.
Throughout the tour, they’ll enjoy beautiful island views. Priced from $83.73 per person, the tour includes transportation, a knowledgeable guide/driver, hotel pickup and drop-off, and the entrance fee for Pedra de Lume.
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. With overall rave reviews, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking to explore Sal Island’s natural highlights.
Travelers should bring swimwear, a towel, comfortable clothing, a hat, and sunscreen, and may opt for water shoes at an additional cost.
Read our full review: Sal Island: 3-Hour Private Tour With Floating in Salt Lake & Shark Watching Review
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Excursions / Van Tours / Sightseeing
What better way to explore Santa Maria’s attractions than through carefully curated excursions, van tours, and sightseeing adventures?
One such option is the private tour of the island, which starts at 9:00 am and lasts throughout the day. Priced from $111.99 per person, this tour has received a 100% traveler recommendation based on 10 reviews. With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience and a reserve now, pay later option, this tour offers excellent flexibility.
The tour includes a pickup from the municipal market in Vila do Porto, and the activity ends back at the meeting point. Travelers can look forward to a delightful day filled with a meat or fish dish for lunch, as well as breakfast and dinner.
The tour is accessible for wheelchair users, stroller-bound visitors, and those with service animals. Based on the reviews, the guide’s passion for the island, local knowledge, and hospitality have been consistently praised, making this a must-try for those seeking an immersive exploration of Santa Maria.
Read our full review: Excursions / Van Tours / Sightseeing Review
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Santa Maria Island Jeep Safari Full Day Tour
Although Santa Maria offers a wealth of activities to explore the island’s natural beauty, the Santa Maria Island Jeep Safari Full Day Tour stands out as a premier option for immersing oneself in the unique landscape. Rated 5.0 out of 7 reviews, this full-day adventure takes travelers on a journey through the island’s diverse terrain, from picturesque bays to lush forests.
The tour includes a picnic lunch with a scenic view, as well as traditional local biscuits to savor. While drinks are available for purchase, the tour provides an island map for navigation. Accessibility is limited, as the tour isn’t wheelchair-friendly, but infant seats are available upon request.
With a maximum of 8 travelers, the tour offers an intimate experience led by the highly praised guide, Henrique, who shares his deep knowledge of the island’s history, culture, and natural wonders. Consistently praised for its memorable experience, the Santa Maria Island Jeep Safari Full Day Tour is a must-consider for those seeking to explore the island’s enchanting beauty.
Read our full review: Santa Maria Island Jeep Safari Full Day Tour Review
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Sal Island: Private Santa Maria City Tour, Street Art and Tapas
Beyond the acclaimed Santa Maria Island Jeep Safari, visitors to Sal Island can embark on an equally engaging private tour that showcases the vibrant city of Santa Maria.
The “Private Santa Maria City Tour, Street Art and Tapas” offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s highlights, including its renowned street art and local culinary delights.
Priced from €130.00 per group (up to 2 people), this highly-rated tour (5.0 out of 6 reviews) provides private transportation, a licensed local guide, and liability insurance.
Guests can expect to be picked up from their hotel lobby or a designated address, with transfer available only on Sal island. The tour starts at 4:00 PM and accommodates most travelers, though it’s not wheelchair accessible.
The tour’s key inclusions are a taste of typical Cape Verdean tapas, showcasing the local flavors, as well as an air-conditioned vehicle for a comfortable experience.
Guests can freely cancel up to 24 hours before the tour, and confirmation is received at the time of booking.
Read our full review: Sal Island: Private Santa Maria City Tour, Street Art and Tapas Review
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Small Group Full Day Island Tour in Sal
Travelers visiting the island of Sal in Cape Verde can embark on a comprehensive Small Group Full Day Island Tour, providing an immersive experience of the island’s diverse landscapes and cultural highlights. Rated 4.1 out of 5 based on 10 reviews, this tour offers a full-day adventure starting at 9:15 AM.
The tour includes hotel/port pickup and drop-off, a knowledgeable local guide, air-conditioned transportation, lunch, and all fees and taxes.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour allows for a personalized experience. Highlights include the picturesque fishing village of Santa Maria, where guests can explore the vibrant local culture and history.
The tour also includes the opportunity to try shark paddling, an activity praised by past guests for the excellent care and attention provided by the guide.
However, some travelers have reported issues with the air conditioning in the transportation and miscommunications regarding tour inclusions. The host acknowledges these concerns and give you a seamless experience for all guests.
Read our full review: Small Group Full Day Island Tour in Sal Review
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Sal Island: Secrets of Native Guide All-Inclusive Tour With Lunch
Embarking on the Sal Island: Secrets of Native Guide All-Inclusive Tour with Lunch offers travelers a comprehensive and immersive experience on the island of Sal in Cape Verde. Priced at $68.03 per person, this full-day tour accommodates up to 15 participants and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and all necessary fees and taxes.
Highlights of the tour include swimming in saline thermal waters and natural pools, exploring Shark Bay, and delving into the local culture and history with a knowledgeable guide.
The tour also includes a lunch featuring fresh fish, meat, pasta, and vegetarian options, as well as one complimentary drink. Additional amenities like free baby seats and water shoes for hire at Shark Bay are available.
With an impressive 4.8/5 rating from 6 reviews, this tour is a must-do activity for visitors to Sal Island. Guests praise the excellent guides, well-organized itinerary, and the opportunity to experience the unique natural wonders and local flavors of this captivating destination.
Read our full review: Sal Island: Secrets of Native Guide All-Inclusive Tour With Lunch Review
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Sal Island: Guided Full-Day Highlights Tour With Lunch
Exploring the vibrant island of Sal in Cape Verde through a guided full-day highlights tour provides travelers with a comprehensive and immersive experience. Covering the island’s hot spots and hidden gems, the tour includes visits to kite surfing areas, Lion Mountain, fishing villages, the Blue Eye, and the Salt Crater.
Offering hotel pickup for convenience, the tour provides round-trip transfers and a local lunch featuring fish or meat, dessert, and water. Travelers can float in the highly saline waters of the Salt Crater and learn about Sal Island’s history and culture from the knowledgeable guide.
With a maximum of 8 travelers, the tour ensures an intimate experience. Though not wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate. Priced from $68.03 per person with a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before, this tour is an excellent way to explore Sal Island without the hassle of car rental.
Read our full review: Sal Island: Guided Full-Day Highlights Tour With Lunch Review
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Small-Group 6-Hour Tour With Lunch in Ilha Do Sal
The Small-Group 6-Hour Tour with Lunch in Ilha do Sal provides travelers an opportunity to explore the captivating island of Sal in Cape Verde.
Operated by Bu Country Tours, this small-group tour accommodates a maximum of 10 people, ensuring a personalized experience. The tour includes a 1-course meal with water and local juice, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off in Santa Maria. Fully licensed expert guides lead the way, providing insights into the island’s highlights.
Travelers will visit iconic sites such as Burracona, Salinas, and Shark Bay, with entrance fees included in the tour price. An optional shower for salt removal is available for €1.
The tour departs at 9:30 am and runs for 6 hours, making it an efficient way to explore the island. With an overall rating of 4.8/5 based on reviews, this tour is an excellent choice for those seeking a comprehensive introduction to Sal’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Small-Group 6-Hour Tour With Lunch in Ilha Do Sal Review
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The Sum Up
Santa Maria offers a variety of exciting and immersive tours that allow visitors to explore the island’s natural beauty, culture, and local experiences. From all-inclusive full-day tours to private and small-group options, there’s something to suit every traveler’s interests and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a personalized experience or a group adventure, these tours provide an excellent way to make the most of your time in Santa Maria.