Santa Maria in 1 Day for Friends - Snorkeling in Murdeira Bay
In Collaboration with Spot Travel Tours. Updated on February 12, 2026.
Embark on an extraordinary journey with our Full-Day Tour that promises an immersive exploration of the most captivating sights and experiences in Sal Island. From sunrise to sunset, this comprehensive tour is designed to provide you with a seamless and unforgettable day of discovery.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Spot Travel Tours, inspired by the tour Full-Day Tour in Sal Island with all inclusive (Lunch and all fees included). Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Snorkeling in Murdeira Bay
- Panoramic view over Espargos
- Palmeira fishing village and port
- Buracona natural pools and the 'Blue Eye' phenomenon
- Terra Boa desert mirage viewpoint (agricultural plain sighting point on Sal)
Itinerary
Day 1
Full-day guided loop of Sal island with hotel pickup, snorkeling, village visits, natural pools, salt pans and a included lunch. Total tour duration: 7 hours (hotel pickup and drop-off included).
Hotel pickup & welcome briefing
Meet at your hotel in Santa Maria for pickup, safety briefing and a short introduction to Cape Verde history and the day's route.
Tips from local experts:
- Be ready in the hotel lobby 5–10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time to keep the day on schedule.
- Bring any medications or personal snorkeling gear with you to the lobby since the vehicle will depart directly.
- Keep a small daypack with water, sunscreen, and your camera—large luggage should remain at the hotel.
Murdeira Bay — snorkeling stop
Short on-site introduction and free time for snorkeling and viewing the coral-filled bay. Light swimming/snorkeling permitted where safe.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear reef shoes or sturdy sandals — the shoreline is rocky in places and shoes are recommended for entering the water.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the local coral and marine life during your swim.
- If you bring your own snorkeling mask, label it and keep it in your daypack; the guide will confirm safe snorkeling areas.
Espargos city — local tour & belvedere
Drive to Espargos for a brief local orientation and a panoramic viewpoint over the town.
Tips from local experts:
- There is limited shade at viewpoints — carry a hat and a light layer for wind protection.
- Keep valuables secure in your bag while taking photos at the belvedere; pockets can be pickpocket-prone in busy spots.
- Ask your guide for local context — this is a good place to learn about island life and recent development in Sal.
Palmeira fishing village & port
Visit the island's working fishing village and the main port area to see local fisheries activity and coastal life.
Tips from local experts:
- Respect working fishermen and equipment; ask before touching boats or gear.
- If you plan to take close-up photos of people, a quick polite request goes a long way.
- Wear comfortable shoes — the port area has uneven surfaces and fishing equipment on the quayside.
Buracona natural pools — 'Blue Eye' viewing
Explore the volcanic rocky landscape and natural pools; time this stop to see the 'Blue Eye' sun effect (best between late morning and early afternoon).
Tips from local experts:
- The Blue Eye effect is light-dependent; follow your guide's instructions on the best vantage points and timing.
- The terrain is rocky and uneven—wear shoes with grip and stay behind safety barriers where provided.
- Carry a lightweight windproof layer; coastal wind can be strong near the cliffs.
Included lunch (local restaurant)
Group lunch at a local restaurant. Lunch includes one alcoholic drink or one non-alcoholic drink as part of the tour inclusions.
Tips from local experts:
- If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, inform the guide before lunch so the restaurant can accommodate where possible.
- Try to keep personal valuables on you; restaurants may not have secure storage for bags.
- Ask for local specialties to sample Cape Verdean flavors; the guide can suggest traditional options.
Terra Boa — desert plain and mirage viewpoint
Short stop to view the agricultural plain known locally as Terra Boa and observe the desert mirage phenomenon in a mostly arid landscape.
Tips from local experts:
- Stay on designated tracks and follow the guide to avoid sensitive agricultural areas.
- Carry a refillable water bottle — hydration is important in arid sections of the island.
- Sunglasses and a hat improve visibility and comfort when viewing mirage effects.
Drive past peripheral communities — social institutions stop
On the return leg toward Espargos and Santa Maria, drive through peripheral areas and pass local kindergartens and schools (brief stops where appropriate).
Tips from local experts:
- Be respectful when passing through residential areas; photography of individuals (especially children) should be with permission.
- This is a good time to ask your guide about community life and education on Sal.
- Keep noise to a minimum during any brief roadside stops to avoid disturbing classes or local activities.
Pedra de Lume — salt pans and therapeutic bath
Visit the salt pans located in the crater of Pedra de Lume; time for a short walk and the opportunity to float in the saline waters.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring swimwear and a towel if you plan to bathe in the salt pans; the guide will indicate safe entry points.
- The salt water is very buoyant—enter slowly and avoid splashing electronic devices.
- Footwear that can handle salt and sand is recommended; rinse shoes and belongings after the visit if possible.
Parda Bay — late afternoon shark sighting (if visible)
Quick coastal stop to look for lemon sharks off Parda Bay (sighting depends on conditions and time). Guide will advise on safe viewing points; appropriate footwear recommended.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear shoes suitable for rocky beaches; the guide will advise on safe places to stand and observe.
- Sighting of marine life is not guaranteed—stay patient and follow the guide's safety instructions near the water.
- Keep a safe distance from wildlife and avoid loud noises; use zoom on cameras rather than approaching animals.
Return to Santa Maria — drop-off at hotel
Drive back to Santa Maria with drop-off at your hotel; brief farewell and end of the tour.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm with the guide the exact hotel drop-off location and expected arrival time.
- Keep any souvenirs or belongings together during the short transfer to avoid leaving items behind.
- If you enjoyed the guide's service, a small local tip in cash is customary but entirely optional.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 1 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 10 |
| Total Places | 10 |
| Activities Types | Hotel, Outdoor, Culture, Attraction, Meal, Neighborhood, Transfer |