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Santa Maria Travel Guides

Plan your trip to Santa Maria with accurate, up-to-date travel guides created with local insight — skip tourist traps, save time, and enjoy the city like it’s meant to be experienced.

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Latest Travel Guides

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Discover the most recent travel guides for Santa Maria curated by our community and experts.

1 Day
Experience on Sal Island with native and certified guide (including sharks)
Experience on Sal Island with native and certified guide (including sharks)

Experience on Sal Island with native and certified guide (including sharks)

Perfect for Friends

Santa Maria, Cabo Verde

1 Day
From Sal Island Blu eye Salt lake Lemon Sharks and Palmeira
From Sal Island Blu eye Salt lake Lemon Sharks and Palmeira

From Sal Island Blu eye Salt lake Lemon Sharks and Palmeira

Perfect for Friends

Santa Maria, Cabo Verde

1 Day
Full-Day Tour in Sal Island with all inclusive (Lunch and all fees included)
Full-Day Tour in Sal Island with all inclusive (Lunch and all fees included)

Full-Day Tour in Sal Island with all inclusive (Lunch and all fees included)

Perfect for Friends

Santa Maria, Cabo Verde

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Popular tours and activities

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Discover and book popular tours and activities in Santa Maria to make the most of your trip.

5Transfer

Transfer

Airport/Hotel transfer service, which meets the expectations of our customers, with quality and certified staff, all within the safety and comfort demands.We also provide all necessary assistance throughout the journey.Availability: 24 hours a day and 7 days a week.

1 hour
easy
From$29
4Snorkeling Excursion

Snorkeling Excursion

If you like to explore the underwater world in shallow water, our snorkeling excursion is  definitely for you! You will observe numerous tropical fishes and turtles. We have a few snorkeling spots available, but we prefer to go by boat to the reef in front of  the center and finish the excursion in a small shipwreck, where only the boiler remains. If the conditions are not ideal in the reef, we go by car to our secondary or third snorkeling spot

40 minutes
moderate
From$41
5Sal Island City Tour

Sal Island City Tour

City Tour in Espargos - Exploring the Vibrant Capital of Sal: Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Espargos, the lively capital of Sal island. In this exclusive City Tour, you will explore the bustling streets filled with vibrant shops, authentic restaurants, and colorful markets. Discover the unique architecture and iconic landmarks like the historic Church of São José. Make the most of your visit by exploring the local treasures of the market, where you'll find fresh produce, traditional crafts, and unique souvenirs. Our passionate local guides will share fascinating stories, providing exclusive insights into the culture and life in Espargos. This is the perfect opportunity to uncover the well-guarded secrets of this vibrant city.City Tour in Santa Maria - Enjoying the Pearl of Sal: In our City Tour in Santa Maria, you will be taken to the pearl of Sal, a charming town known for its pristine white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Dive into refreshing waters or relax by the seaside as the tropical sun kisses your skin. Stroll through the charming streets of Santa Maria, with its colorful fisherman's houses, and discover the rich history and culture of this enchanting town. Don't miss the iconic Church of Nossa Senhora das Dores and take advantage of free time to explore cozy cafés and indulge in delicious local cuisine. Our passionate local guides will share interesting information and exclusive tips to make the most of your visit to Santa Maria.Book your individual City Tours in Espargos and Santa Maria now and immerse yourself in the unique experiences that each of these cities offers. Create unforgettable moments, discover fascinating cultures, and make lasting memories on your adventures in Cape Verde.

4 hours
easy
From$29
10Sal Island: Private Tour Shark Bay Experience from Santa Maria

Sal Island: Private Tour Shark Bay Experience from Santa Maria

A native and professional tour guide will pick you up from your hotel and after an informative transfer trip of approximately 30 minutes, you will reach the eastern part of the island, on the beach with the natural nursery rife with lemon sharks, which is a light brown, sand-coloured shark,in its natural environment. These sharks pose no threat to humans. To enter the water you should wear water shoes or crocs for walking on rocky surfaces. The Lemon Shark is medium to large in size and its scientific name is Negaprion Brevirostris.After spending 40 minutes learning all about sharks, you will be taken back to your lodge or hotel where you were caught. Water shoes suitable for the surface area included for your safety and convenience.

2 hours
moderate
From$152
4.615Sal Island: Private Transfer SID Airport and hotel in Santa Maria or vice versa

Sal Island: Private Transfer SID Airport and hotel in Santa Maria or vice versa

Avoid the hassle of navigating a public transport system or the expense of a taxi and enjoy a private, clean, fast and reliable transfer from Amílcar Cabral International Airport to your hotel in Santa Maria or vice versa. All of our cars are cleaned and disinfected inside and out and operate 24/7 to serve you at any time during your flight.Save time by booking your pickup service around your flight times. When you disembark, your driver will be waiting for you at the arrival terminal, just after crossing the police border and collecting your luggage, he will have a yellow sign saying Sal Experience. Take advantage of the child-friendly seats and go directly to your hotel.Relax and start your vacation in style, knowing that you are traveling in the company of a fully licensed and insured driver who will be happy to help you with your luggage or any other matters.

25 minutes
easy
From$35
4.510Sal Island: Shark Bay Shark Watching Experience from Santa Maria

Sal Island: Shark Bay Shark Watching Experience from Santa Maria

A native and professional tour guide will pick you up from your hotel and after an informative transfer trip of approximately 25 minutes you will arrive at the eastern part of the island, on the beach with the natural nursery rife of the lemon sharks, which is a brown shark. clear, sand-colored, in its natural environment. These sharks pose no threat to humans. To enter the water you must wear water shoes or crocs for walking on rocky surfaces.The Lemon Shark is medium to large in size and its scientific name is Negaprion Brevirostris.After spending 40 minutes learning all about sharks, you will be taken back to your accommodation or hotel where you were picked up. Water shoes suitable for the surface of the place included for your safety and comfort.

2 hours
easy
From$35
4.946Experience on Sal Island with native and certified guide (including sharks)

Experience on Sal Island with native and certified guide (including sharks)

Certified company and guides, guarantee of quality, comfort and best price, local guide, knows the island, its history and culture well. Discover the beautiful island of Sal, as well as the island's highlights, local places, street arts and more with your expert local guide.Discover volcanic pools, salt deserts, see lemon sharks in their natural environment, relax and float in the Salinas, the second saltiest water in the world after the Dead Sea. Have lunch at a local restaurant and visit places such as the city of Espargos, the kite beach, Santa Maria, Miragem, the fishing village of Palmeira and the natural bay of Murdeira and enjoy the view of the Leão Mountain.Whether you want to emphasize culture, education, history or sport, our specialist will combine these elements with adventure activities to create exciting travel opportunities for you. Have an authentic experience, get to know the island with a native and professional guide, with all the comfort and safety.

7 hours
easy
From$41
4.822From Sal Island Blu eye Salt lake Lemon Sharks and Palmeira

From Sal Island Blu eye Salt lake Lemon Sharks and Palmeira

Discover the highlights, history and day-to-day life of Sal and Cape Verdeans with this multi-stop, guided off-road day tour. The route starts in Ponta Preta, themost beautiful beach on the island where the windsurfing championships are held in February, Murdeira – the island's natural harbor, which is also the turtle mating placecabeçudas from June to October, Monte Leão – a lion-shaped mountain, the oasis of Fontona, Palmeira – the main port of the island with all its colorful houses, Buracona – with its two natural pools and the teapot's eye, Terra Boa – where you can see the mirage and stop for a bottled drink, the salt flats of the volcano in Pedra de Lume from the top for amazing photos, and possible entry to float in the second saltiest water in the world, Shark watching and return to Santa Maria was on a normal road..

7 hours
easy
From$35
9Sunrise Hiking To Serra Negra

Sunrise Hiking To Serra Negra

Experience an unforgettable sunrise on the east coast of the island during this moderate-level excursion. With strategic stops at Kite beach and the top of Serra Negra mountain, you'll witness the stunning sunrise over the ocean. The activity is mostly flat, with a moderate climb to the mountain range, and then a descent back towards Santa Maria. Get ready for a breathtaking morning adventure!

4 hours
moderate
From$29
4.729Full-Day Tour in Sal Island with all inclusive (Lunch and all fees included)

Full-Day Tour in Sal Island with all inclusive (Lunch and all fees included)

Embark on an extraordinary journey with our Full-Day Tour that promises an immersive exploration of the most captivating sights and experiences in . From sunrise to sunset, this comprehensive tour is designed to provide you with a seamless and unforgettable day of discovery.

7 hours
moderate
From$70
4.821Sal Private Tour: All inclusive Salt Lake, Blue eye and Shark Bay

Sal Private Tour: All inclusive Salt Lake, Blue eye and Shark Bay

Experience the beauty of Sal Island on a private half-day trip with a local and certified guide. Marvel at the Pedra de Lume Salt lake, swim in the Blue Eye natural pool, and see lemon sharks in a natural habitat. The half-day tour is ideal for those who wish to spend a few hours outside the hotel, combine this tour with other activities or return to enjoy the highlights of the island

4 hours
easy
From$574
8Island Pedra de Lume Salt Lake Private Trip from Santa Maria

Island Pedra de Lume Salt Lake Private Trip from Santa Maria

Salinas serves to forget the stress of everyday life, not having to leave the island without bathing in the saline thermal water, where Spas, whirlpool and relaxation are available to all, free of charge. Scientifically, the medicinal action of its salty waters is recognized for its cicatrizing, detoxifying and metabolic-stimulating power due to the mineral substances contained there. In the popular knowledge there is an even greater healing power in this water. The place has a fascinating lake where anyone can bathe and float even without knowing how to swim.

2 hours
easy
From$211
512Private Sal island: Pedra de Lume Village, Salt Lake & Shark Tour

Private Sal island: Pedra de Lume Village, Salt Lake & Shark Tour

Enjoy a private half day island tour and visit places like Salinas salt lake, Pedra de Lume Village, the first populated village on Sal island which retains its architecture intact. Have the experience to see the lemon sharks in their natural environment very closely.Salinas serves to forget the stress of everyday life, not having to leave the island without bathing in the saline thermal water, where Spas, whirlpool and relaxation are available to all, free of charge. Scientifically, the medicinal action of its salty waters is recognized for its cicatrizing, detoxifying and metabolic-stimulating power due to the mineral substances contained there. In the popular knowledge there is an even greater healing power in this water. The place has a fascinating lake where anyone can bathe and float even without knowing how to swim.

3 hours
easy
From$457
4.834Santa Maria, Sal: All inclusive Salt Lake, Blue Eye and Shark Bay

Santa Maria, Sal: All inclusive Salt Lake, Blue Eye and Shark Bay

Have a Sal experience by visiting all the highlights of Sal island with a native and certified guide, to enjoy adventures and relax within nature while having fun and getting to know the history and culture of the place. Here you will be able to enjoy a half day of unique EXPERIENCES! Live and enjoy Sal through Sal Experiences!Company and guide certificates, guarantee of quality/customer satisfaction and best price.

4 hours
easy
From$53
4.618Sal island: Salt Lake Tour, Shark bay & Pedra de Lume Village

Sal island: Salt Lake Tour, Shark bay & Pedra de Lume Village

Enjoy a half day island tour and visit places like Salinas salt lake, Pedra de Lume Village, the first populated village on Sal island which retains its architecture intact. Have the experience to see the lemon sharks in their natural environment very closely.Salinas serves to forget the stress of everyday life, not having to leave the island without bathing in the saline thermal water, where Spas, whirlpool and relaxation are available to all, free of charge. Scientifically, the medicinal action of its salty waters is recognized for its cicatrizing, detoxifying and metabolic-stimulating power due to the mineral substances contained there. In the popular knowledge there is an even greater healing power in this water. The place has a fascinating lake where anyone can bathe and float even without knowing how to swim.

3 hours
easy
From$36
4Santa Maria Sea turtle watching experience on Sal Island

Santa Maria Sea turtle watching experience on Sal Island

Join a nighttime excursion that takes you to the beaches of Sal Island, where turtles come ashore and nest. You will travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle for this exclusive tour. You will be picked up at 8 pm from your accommodation and arrive at a beautiful deserted beach in less than an hour. You will be greeted by professional and trained tour guides who will ensure a unique and environmentally conscious experience for all guests. Your guide will tell you all about the evolution, characteristics, and curiosities of turtles. You will learn why their well-being is a top priority on the island. Cape Verde is home to three species of turtles. The yellow turtle, also known as the loggerhead turtle, is the most common species in Cape Verde. The sandy beaches of Cape Verde are one of the most important nesting sites for loggerhead turtles. In small groups, you will walk along the beach at night and observe the turtles coming ashore.

4 hours
easy
From$59
14Sunset Hiking to Mount Lion

Sunset Hiking to Mount Lion

Experience the beauty of Sal island west coast with our thrilling hiking adventure! Our guided hike begins at 3:00 pm in Santa Maria, near the luxurious Morabeza hotel, and takes you along the stunning seashore towards Mount Lion. As we ascend, the magnificent sunset views will take your breath away.Our journey includes exciting stops at the picturesque Ponta Preta, charming Calheta, and serene Murdeira, allowing you to take in the beauty of the island at your own pace. Our pickup truck will be on hand to provide any necessary assistance throughout the excursion, ensuring your safety and comfort at all times.Join us for an unforgettable experience that you'll cherish for a lifetime! Book your spot now and get ready to create lasting memories on this exhilarating hike along Cape Verde's stunning west coast.

4 hours
moderate
From$47
4Sea Turtle Observation

Sea Turtle Observation

Experience the awe-inspiring sight of sea turtles nesting on the beaches of Cape Verde with a guided night tour. The tour runs during the summer months, from June to October, and takes you to visit some of the most popular beaches, including Kite Beach, Serra Negra, or Algodoeiro. The tour lasts for approximately three hours, and you will be transported in either a 4x4 pickup or a minivan.

3 hours
easy
From$41
Group of people enjoying a trip together in beach

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