All Santa Maria Tours & Excursions in 2026

Known for its long stretches of white-sand beaches and year-round sunshine, the island of Sal in Cape Verde is best explored off the main roads. Get out for an adventurous sightseeing tour on this 4-hour off-roading trip from Santa Maria, which lets you access beaches, salt flats, and more wilderness inaccessible by cars.

Explore the wildlife of Sal Island with this turtle-watching excursion. Home to a nesting site for loggerhead sea turtles, witness these majestic natural animals in their habitats. Listen to a briefing on appropriate turtle conduct, then walk along the beach under the evening sky, waiting for an opportunity to approach and watch as the turtles lay their eggs.

-Largely unexplored, the ocean, especially around the coastal areas, is full of life. The abundance and variety of color and creatures is simply staggering. Snorkeling allows people to admire wildlife, in its natural habitat. -Our snorkelling adventures are suitable for everyone, whether young or adult, experienced or inexperienced. -Learn how to prepare and use your snorkelling equipment correctly and be safe into the water.

It will be an experience you have never had before and that you will remember for the rest of your life. It's the best nature excursion we have on the island, our natural Discovery Channel in Sal.

Experience a unique moment in nature with the experience of turtle harvesting in Santa Maria. For three hours, observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat as they lay their eggs on protected beaches. A certified Guide will accompany the activity, providing valuable information on turtle conservation and ensuring a safe and educational experience. Prepare for an authentic encounter with nature that not only delights, but also educates on the importance of preserving marine species.

This catamaran tour is perfect for guests who want to relax and enjoy an entertaining day on the water near Santa Maria without having to worry about children limiting the fun. This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, unlimited beer and wine, snacks, live entertainment, use of snorkeling equipment, fishing equipment, and a floating swimming pool (weather permitting).

This is your chance to learn how to scuba dive in Santa Maria. PADI-certified instructors will provide scuba gear—mask, snorkel, fins, regulator, wetsuit buoyancy control device, dive gauges, and tank—and explain the basic rules of diving. You'll start in the classroom before getting in a pool to get familiar with the equipment. When you're ready, your guide will take you out on the Atlantic for an underwater experience.

A romantic glamping experience in Santa Maria, Cape Verde, is the perfect way to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a unique and intimate getaway. Our luxurious glamping tent, located on the beach of Ponta Preta, offers stunning views of the ocean and the perfect setting for an unforgettable evening. Our Ultimate Pro Glamping tent comes complete with all the amenities you need for a truly luxurious experience, including air conditioning, a private transportation, dinner, snacks, and bottled water. Be treated like royalty as you celebrate your most special moments in one of the most beautiful places in the world.

Make the most of your time at Sal Island by booking this hassle-free tour that takes you to all of the island’s hot spots, and some secret ones you wouldn’t find on your own. The tour starts with hotel pickup to keep things simple, and then you’re on your way. Check out the kite surfing scene, views of Lion Mountain, fishing villages, the Blue Eye, and much more. Enjoy provided lunch, too, to keep you fueled up.

It will be a unique experience, with local guides, we know our island better than anyone. With us, it's a stress-free ride and you'll be directly helping the local economy.

Day or half day tour accompanied DE a local Guide, qualified and certified by the beaches, villas and cities OF the island accompanied by information on history and culture

Escape the crowded beaches and admire Sal’s coastline from a fresh perspective during an adults-only catamaran cruise that promises a more peaceful experience than standard sails. Swim at spots between Palmeira and Monte Leão that are difficult to reach by land, and enjoy all-inclusive drinks, so you don’t have to worry about hidden costs.

Discover the best that the island of Sal has to offer as you embark on a full-day sightseeing tour. Join a small group for a journey across the whole island, stopping for a closer look at key landmarks. Visit villages, viewpoints, an underwater cave, beaches, a salt crater, and much more in just one day. While you explore, your guide provides context on the history and culture of the island.

This is a unique opportunity to see loggerhead sea turtles in their natural habitat, wild and free, laying eggs. You will be guided by expert local and international guides in a respectful way that will not disturb the turtles. An added benefit of this experience is that some of your ticket price goes towards beach cleanups on Sal Island to keep it clean, protecting the turtles and other ocean life.

Go off road in a rugged island buggy to explore Santa Maria on this half-day adventure. In a 500cc automatic buggy (two passengers per buggy), get to know the island's highlights, including the nature reserve of Serra Negra and the mirage at Terra Boa. Round-trip hotel transportation included.

Discover two of Sal Island's most iconic experiences in one relaxing half-day tour. Accompanied by a native certified guide, explore the historic village of Pedra de Lume and discover how salt production shaped the island's past while admiring its extraordinary volcanic landscapes. Float effortlessly in the warm, mineral-rich waters of the Pedra de Lume Salt Lake, the world's only salt lagoon inside the crater of an extinct volcano. Known as a natural spa, its highly saline waters offer a unique and deeply relaxing experience while leaving your skin feeling soft and refreshed. Complete your adventure at Shark Bay, where you'll safely observe juvenile lemon sharks in their natural habitat. Perfect for travelers seeking relaxation, nature and unforgettable experiences, this tour combines wellness, wildlife and breathtaking scenery in one memorable half-day adventure.

We'll pick you up at your hotel by minibus at 9:00 AM. We'll begin the tour by traveling south of Sal Island, where we'll see the Santa Maria pier and salt flats. Then, we'll head towards Murdeira Bay. After swimming in its refreshing waters, we'll head to the fishing village of Palmeira. From there, we'll head to Buracona Lagoon, a beautiful natural pool. We'll continue our tour through the Terra Boa desert, whose landscapes will surprise us with a curious mirage. Our next stop will be in the island's administrative capital, Espargos, where you'll have an hour of free time to enjoy lunch on your own. With our energy recharged, we'll climb to a famous viewpoint to admire the island's views. The tour continues towards the shores of Parda Bay, famous for being the natural habitat of lemon sharks. Very close by are the Pedra de Luma salt flats. Nearby are a series of lagoons where, like the Dead Sea, you can float in their waters. A perfect opportunity to tone your skin naturally!

Explore the captivating island of Sal on a guided full-day journey, immersing yourself in Cape Verdean culture and natural wonders. Begin at Murdeira Bay for breathtaking ocean views before venturing to Palmeira, a quaint fishing village. Marvel at Buracona's "Blue Eye," a stunning natural pool, and discover Espargos, the bustling capital, where local markets and culture await. Visit the Miragem for optical illusions and explore Terra Boa's picturesque desert landscapes. Experience the excitement of Shark Bay, where you can observe baby lemon sharks up close. Unwind at the therapeutic Salt Lakes of Pedra de Lume before cruising through Kite Beach, famous for kite surfing. End your day at Santa Maria, the vibrant tourist hub with its beautiful beach and lively atmosphere. Enjoy seamless hotel transfers for a hassle-free exploration of Sal Island's diverse highlights.

Enjoy an exclusive Lemon Shark Experience with a native certified nature guide, away from the crowds and at your own pace. Walk safely into the shallow waters of Shark Bay, where juvenile lemon sharks swim naturally around you in their protected nursery. Spend around 40 minutes in the water learning about the behaviour, life cycle and ecological importance of these fascinating animals while enjoying a safe and respectful wildlife encounter. Water shoes are included free of charge for your comfort and safety. With private transportation, flexible departure times, personalised attention and complimentary photos and videos, this tour offers the most comfortable and immersive way to experience Sal Island's famous lemon sharks.

Looking for something special? This private catamaran trip is all about space, comfort, and freedom. With your own boat and crew, you’ll sail Sal’s stunning coastline, stop to swim in clear waters, and enjoy drinks and snacks in total privacy. No crowds, no stress — just you, the ocean, and a peaceful escape from the ordinary.

Enjoy the underwater life of Sal on this guided snorkeling tour in Santa Maria. Explore local reefs and discover vibrant marine life such as tropical fish, rays, turtles, and eels in the crystal-clear waters of Cape Verde.

We will pick you up from your hotel by minibus at 9:00 AM. We will begin the tour traveling south on Sal Island, where we will see the Santa Maria pier and the salt flats. We will continue our tour through the Terra Boa desert, whose landscapes will surprise us with a curious mirage. Our next stop will be in the island's administrative capital, Espargos, where you will have an hour of free time to enjoy lunch on your own. With our energies recharged, we will climb to a famous viewpoint to admire the views of the island. The tour continues towards the shores of Parda Bay, famous for being the natural habitat of lemon sharks. Nearby are the Pedra de Luma salt flats. In the vicinity, there are a series of lagoons where, like in the Dead Sea, you can float in the waters. A perfect opportunity to tone your skin naturally!

Discover the regenerating power DE the ancient crater of the extinct volcano of Pedra de Lume on a half-day experience dedicated to wellness and relaxation. Take advantage of therapeutic treatments that exploit the benefits of trace elements and natural metals. Let yourself be enveloped DA an exfoliating sea salt thalassoscrub, removing impurities and dead cells for radiant and even skin. Immerse yourself in salty sea baths, effective for the health of the skin and respiratory system. Finish with natural mud that relieves tension and restores skin radiance, accompanied DA a refreshing tropical drink.

Arriving in paradise has never been smoother with LuaNova Tour's private airport transfers from Amílcar Cabral International Airport to your hotel in Santa Maria. A friendly driver greets you with a personalized sign, ready to assist with your luggage and escort you to your air-conditioned vehicle. Choose from the Economy, Comfort, or Premium options to suit your travel needs. Enjoy a swift 15–20 minute ride to your hotel while soaking in the beautiful scenery of Sal Island. Experience punctuality and reliability, ensuring you start your vacation stress-free. - Meet and greet service at the airport with a sign - Air-conditioned vehicles for utmost comfort - Professional drivers ensuring safety and reliability - Assistance with luggage included