Top Santa Maria Wildlife Watching in 2026

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.

Há muitas jóias escondidas para experimentar na ilha de Sal, mas a maioria dos viajantes nunca tem a chance de explorá-las. Nesta excursão de dia inteiro para pequenos grupos, aproveite uma combinação de pontos turísticos naturais e urbanos enquanto descobre desertos salinos, arte de rua e piscinas vulcânicas. Você até terá a chance de ver tubarões limões nativos em seu habitat natural.

Enjoy Sal Island's most authentic Lemon Shark Experience led by a native certified nature guide. Unlike simply watching sharks from a distance, you'll safely enter 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, biology and conservation of these remarkable animals while enjoying a safe and respectful wildlife encounter. Water shoes are included free of charge for your comfort and safety, and small groups ensure a more personal experience with plenty of time to observe, ask questions and take unforgettable photos. This is a unique opportunity to connect with Cape Verde's marine life while supporting responsible and sustainable wildlife tourism.

Experienced riders and beginners alike will find their match on this Sal Island horseback riding tour. Choose between a 1-, 1.5-, or 2-hour ride and set off in a small group with a maximum of eight participants. You’ll ride along white-sand beaches and through the salt flats of Sal, with the opportunity to continue to Kite Beach and beyond. Helmets, round-trip hotel transport, and safety briefing all 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.

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.

Enjoy an exclusive half-day private tour exploring the history, nature and unique landscapes of Pedra de Lume with a native certified guide. Visit the island's first settlement, discover Sal Island's rich salt mining heritage and safely observe juvenile lemon sharks in their natural habitat at Shark Bay. Experience the extraordinary Pedra de Lume Salt Lake, the world's only salt lagoon inside the crater of an extinct volcano. Float effortlessly in its mineral-rich waters and enjoy one of Cape Verde's most unique natural attractions. Travel in comfort with a private guide and vehicle, free from crowds and fixed schedules. With the flexibility to explore at your own pace and spend more time at your favourite stops, this tour is perfect for couples, families and small groups looking for an authentic and personalised experience.

Discover Sal Island's top natural attractions on an exclusive all-inclusive private tour with a certified native guide. Enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace, with a flexible itinerary tailored to your interests whenever possible. Float effortlessly in the mineral-rich waters of Pedra de Lume Salt Lake, admire Buracona's famous Blue Eye, witness the incredible Terra Boa Mirage and safely observe juvenile lemon sharks in their natural habitat at Shark Bay. Perfect for couples, families and small groups, this all-inclusive experience includes hotel pickup anywhere on Sal Island, private transportation and all entrance fees, allowing you to discover the island's highlights in comfort while still enjoying the rest of your day.

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.