Full Day Adults Only Tour of Sal with Lobster Lunch and Salt Lake
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
With long stretches of unspoilt beach and a rich cultural heritage – Sal has all the ingredients for a perfect day trip. This tour packs in the best sights, including Buracona lagoon and Pedra de Lume salt flats. To top it off, there's a traditional Cape Verdean lunch, and you'll get a glimpse of laidback, local life in Espargos and Palmeira. Rodrigo, one of our local guides, says, ‘Pedra de Lume is in the middle of a volcanic crater, and you reach it via a tunnel. You can sometimes pick up compressed salt crystals the size of a golf ball, while at other times the salt is so hard that you walk on the pans.'
Available options
With Standard lunch menu
With Standard Lunch<br/>Pickup included
With Lobster Lunch
With Lobster Lunch<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Transport
Guide
Drop into a family-run restaurant and tuck into a Cape Verdean lobster lunch Choose between Lobster and Standard lunch (includes a meat, fish or vegetarian option)
Detailed itinerary
1
The fun kicks off with a visit to Espargos. You'll explore the island's colourful capital and admire its fascinating street art, before heading to an observatory point for elevated views over the town.
2
Next, it's on to the Buracona lagoon, famed for an optical illusion known as the ‘blue eye' caused by the sunlight.
3
The journey continues at the laidback fishing village of Palmeira. Relax in a café while your guide reveals stories about the village's past.
4
After fuelling up on local cuisine, we'll head to the Dead Sea-like waters of Pedra de Lume. Lie back and float on one of the world's saltiest lagoons,
5
stopping by at Viveiros Botanical Garden to discover exotic vegetation and a petting zoo.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
13 reviews
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Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Bring bathing gear and sunblock
Bring a towel
Standard lunch includes a meat, fish or vegetarian option
Our office opening hours are Monday - Friday from 9h - 17.15h, Saturday and Sundays closed.
Not suitable for guests with reduced mobility
Adults only
Important notes
Phone calls are only allowed during office hours. Assistance is only available in the local language and in English.
Monday to Sunday 08:00 to 17:00
We do not answer WhatsApp messages or phone calls.
About Santa Maria
Santa Maria is the vibrant heart of Sal Island, known for its stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. This charming town offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, making it a top destination in Cabo Verde.
Top Attractions
Santa Maria Beach
Santa Maria Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Cabo Verde, known for its golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant atmosphere.
Beach
Half-day to full day
Free
Palmeira Beach
Palmeira Beach is a quieter alternative to Santa Maria Beach, offering a more relaxed setting with beautiful natural scenery.
Beach
Half-day to full day
Free
Buracona Natural Pool
Buracona is a stunning natural pool formed by a collapsed cave, offering a unique swimming experience in crystal-clear waters.
Nature
Half-day
Moderate
Santa Maria Market
The local market is a great place to experience the vibrant culture and cuisine of Cabo Verde, offering a variety of fresh produce, crafts, and souvenirs.
Market
1-2 hours
Budget to moderate
Pedra de Lume
Pedra de Lume is a historic salt mine and a former salt production site, offering a unique glimpse into the island's past.
Historical
Half-day
Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Cachupa
A traditional stew made with corn, beans, sweet potatoes, and meat or fish.
Main dish
Vegetarian and vegan options available.
Pastel
A fried pastry filled with fish, meat, or vegetables.
Snack
Vegetarian and vegan options available.
Grogue
A traditional Cape Verdean rum made from sugarcane.
Drink
Alcoholic.
Popular Activities
Snorkeling
Scuba diving
Hiking
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Yoga
Visiting local markets
Attending festivals
Best Time to Visit
November to June
This is the peak tourist season, offering the best weather conditions for beach activities and sightseeing. The days are sunny, and the nights are pleasant.
25-30°C
77-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Portuguese
- Widely spoken: Cape Verdean Creole (Kriolu)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Cape Verdean Escudo (CVE)
Time Zone
GMT-1
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Santa Maria is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur, especially in crowded areas. Exercise caution and keep valuables secure.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Use reputable transportation services.
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services.
Getting there
By air
- Amílcar Cabral International Airport • 15 km from Santa Maria
By bus
Santa Maria Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Shared taxis (aluguer) are a common and affordable way to get around. They follow fixed routes and can be hailed on the street.
Taxis
Available • Apps: N/A
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Town Center
Palmeira
Day trips
Espargos
20 km • Half-day
The largest town on the island, offering a glimpse into local life and history.
Santa Maria Salt Mines
10 km • Half-day
A historic salt mine offering a unique glimpse into the island's past.
Festivals
Santa Maria Music Festival • July
Carnaval Celebrations • February to March
Pro tips
- Visit the local markets for authentic souvenirs and a taste of Cape Verdean culture
- Try the local cuisine, especially fresh seafood and traditional dishes like cachupa
- Explore the natural beauty of the island, such as Buracona Natural Pool and Palmeira Beach
- Experience the vibrant nightlife and live music scene in Santa Maria
- Respect the environment and local culture by following sustainable practices and supporting local businesses
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
