Turtle Watching Adventure
Recommended by 96% of travelers
Santa Maria, Cape Verde
- 3 hours (approx.)
- Pickup offered
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
Explore the wildlife of Sal Island with this turtle watching excursion. Home to nesting site for loggerhead sea turtles, witness these majestic natural animals in their habitats. Relax in a glamping tent and enjoy drinks and snacks while listening to a briefing on appropriate turtle conduct. Walk along the beach under the evening sky waiting for an opportunity to approach and watch as the turtles lay their eggs.
- Experience offered in multiple languages
- Snacks and bottled water provided for convenience
- Enjoy a private tour restricted to your group
- Relax in an open glamping tent
What's Included
- Snacks
- Bottled water
- red lights
- Transfer service
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Operating hours.8:30 pm
What To Expect
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Infant seats available
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
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Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Featured review
Calum_G
We went at the start of the season in early July and we were worried we might not be able to see any turtles but we were very pleasantly surprised! We managed to see two turtles laying their eggs which was absolutely incredible. Isla and her team were brilliant, we arrived at the tent on the beach which was a lovely touch and then we walked down to the beach and sat on the sand where Isla was very knowledgeable and gave us lots of information on the turtles. I would definitely recommend this trip and want to give a huge thank you to Isla who made it an amazing experience
Reviews
4.8
based on 129 reviews
brian_k, Sep 2025
Fascinating, guide was very informative and very friendly, an honour to witness these beautiful creatures
Response from Host, Sep 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words! 🌊🐢 We are delighted you enjoyed the experience and the guidance from our team. It truly is an honour to witness these amazing creatures, and we’re so glad you could share that special moment with us.
ArneOlai_O, Sep 2025
Guides were great, very professional. We saw other groups not behaving around the animals, but this tour had a smaller group and we received good instructions on how to not disturb the turtles while watching them.
Response from Host, Sep 2025
Thank you so much! Respecting the turtles and keeping the groups small is the most important for us, so we are really happy you appreciated it. It means a lot to know you enjoyed the experience in the right way. We hope to welcome you again soon in Cape Verde!
SIMON_J, Aug 2025
This was an amazing experience that I would recommend to everyone that visits Cape Verde during the turtle laying season. We were very lucky to see a few turtles coming out of the surf and then our excellent guide Kenny concentrated on one turtle that was in the process of digging her nest. Through the red lights, we witnessed at arms length the turtle digging, laying, covering and returning to the sea. This took place over an hour and a half. It was one of the best memories of the holiday. From the pick up at the hotel, the multi-lingual Kenny kept us all informed throughout. The road to the nesting site is an adventure in itself. We were then taken to a glamping tent for drinks and snacks an an insight into the life cycle of a turtle.
The area is patrolled by conservationists protecting the turtles and the numbers within each group. Highly recommended to all.
Response from Host, Aug 2025
Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with us. We are delighted to hear that you enjoyed the evening and that Kenny made the adventure so special and informative. Witnessing the turtles nesting up close is truly magical, and we’re glad it became one of the best memories of your holiday. It’s also great to know you appreciated the glamping tent and the conservation efforts that help protect these incredible animals. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we hope to welcome you back for another unforgettable experience in Cape Verde.
Calum_G, Jul 2025
We went at the start of the season in early July and we were worried we might not be able to see any turtles but we were very pleasantly surprised! We managed to see two turtles laying their eggs which was absolutely incredible. Isla and her team were brilliant, we arrived at the tent on the beach which was a lovely touch and then we walked down to the beach and sat on the sand where Isla was very knowledgeable and gave us lots of information on the turtles. I would definitely recommend this trip and want to give a huge thank you to Isla who made it an amazing experience
Response from Host, Jul 2025
Thank you so much for your lovely review! We're really happy to hear that you had such a magical experience with us, and even more so that you got to witness two turtles laying their eggs, especially so early in the season! 🌙🐢
Ayla will be thrilled to know that her passion and knowledge helped make the evening unforgettable for you. She's truly dedicated to creating meaningful moments for our guests, and we're so glad she could guide you through this special encounter from start to finish.
Thanks again for joining us and for recommending the tour — it means a lot! 💛
Scott_G, Aug 2024
An excellent evening trip to see the turtles.
The guides were very knowledgeable and provided great information regarding the turtles.
Response from Host, Aug 2024
Thank you very much Scott for your feedback. We are glad to hear that you've enjoyed the turtle watching experience with our knowledgeable guides. We hope to see you soon for more wildlife adventures!
jenny_b, Sep 2023
Jay was great knew about the turtles and managed to see one as somas we arrived. Only one thing take some bite cream with you
Response from Host, Sep 2023
Thank you for your review! It's great to hear that Jay was knowledgeable about the turtles and that you got to see one during your visit. Your tip about bringing bite cream is helpful advice for future visitors. We appreciate your feedback!
Emily_B, Aug 2023
I don't know where to begin in describing how incredible this trip is! Marta was amazing with communication, messaging me to say that our time slot booked couldn't run and offering alternatives. We were picked up on time and greeting by 2 smiley guys. We arrived to a pitch black beach edge to the most gorgeous glamping tent with snacks and a drink for our briefing. Marta and Kenny gave everyone their briefing in multiple languages and we were then ready to set off. The stars were just breathtaking and the ocean was so calming. We were lead by Kenny, along with Alex and Clay and they were so clear with instructions and informative. Talking to us about what was happening whilst we sat and waited on the beach. We saw a turtle come up the beach straight out of the sea! Watching the eggs laid and then how she covered her nest was phenomenal and this trip cannot be recommended enough for the most uninterrupted, pure nature experience. There is no human intervention whilst mama lays, just absolute mother nature doing what she does best!
Response from Host, Aug 2023
Thank you so much Emily for your beautiful words. You really made our day!
Big thanks from all the team.
We hope to see you soon for more adventures together in Sal Island.
Warm regards,
Sealife Experience Team
Susan_W, Aug 2023
We were picked up on time but be warned the bus has very little leg room. You are on the bus about 20 minutes and taken to the glamorous tent on the beach. We were given a safety and awareness session and were well informed about the turtles and how to keep then safe.
We were then taken to to see the turtle laying her eggs. All I can say is it was a once in a lifetime experience.
Response from Host, Aug 2023
Hi Susan,
Thank you so much for your review. We are very happy to read that you?ve enjoyed this very uniue experience with our team.
We hope to see you soon for more adventures in Cabo Verde.
John_H, Aug 2023
A lovely briefing with the guide in a fairy lit tent with refreshments. Head down and wait in the sand to be called once a turtle is spotted. There were a few groups around us and a few turtles either side, doing there thing.
All very respectful of the wildlife and a fantastic experience under a ‘super moon’.
So lucky to be able to do these things, lovely creatures.
Response from Host, Aug 2023
Hi John,
Thank you so much for your review. We are glad to hear that you've loved this magic experience with our team.
Hope to see you soon in Cape Verde for more nature adventures.
Grettings from all the team.
Frdrique_v, Jul 2023
We went turtlewatching with our (little bit crazy) family of 6. At night we were picked up at our hotel by the guids Jay and Kenny and their driver/photographer 😉 Adilson. They brought us to a nice tittle tipi on the beach where we could sit, enjoy a drink and a little snack. Jay explained what we could (or could not) expect on our adventure. Once on the beach we were so lucky that the guids almost immediately saw a turtle. We had to wait quietly untill the turtle digged a hole and was ready to lay her eggs. We then could approach the mama-turtle from behind en sat us down at 0.5 - 1 m distance from the turtle. The guids lit the turtle with a red light (which the turtle can't see) so we had a good view. It was amazing to see this beautiful big animal laying eggs. The guids are so careful and respectful towards the turtles, it was beautiful! Even on the way back to the hotel we had a great time, we had so much fun with our guids. Thanks for an amazing experience! #familyhakunamajimmy
Response from Host, Jul 2023
Thank you so much Fréderique for your nice feedback. We are very happy that you and your lovely family had enjoyed this once in a lifetime experience with our team. We hope to see you soon in Cabo Verde for more amazing adventures.
Vincent_B, Oct 2022
unforgettable evening with the laying of 2 turtles on a beautiful beach with a starry sky. the hatching of small turtles, the release by us of the small ones. magic and so rare. the guide (Marta) is of good advice and makes us live this experience to the fullest. more than affordable price.
Response from Host, Oct 2022
Thank you very much Vincent for coming with us to experience turtle watching in Sal Island. We are very happy to know that you enjoyed the adventure with us. We hope to see you soon for more adventures together!
Best,
Marta
Elena_P, Aug 2025
A unique and very special experience. Watching the turtles lay their eggs was magical, and the guide was very friendly, polite and always respectful to them.
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Response from Host, Aug 2025
Muchas gracias Elena por tu maravilloso comentario. Nos alegra muchísimo saber que disfrutasteis de la experiencia de observación de tortugas, de la amabilidad de nuestro guía y del respeto con el que llevamos a cabo esta experiencia para con la naturaleza y las tortugas.
Os esperamos en Sal para mas aventuras juntos!
Youssra_E, Sep 2024
Heel bijzondere ervaring, sowieso al om in de avond over een donker strand te lopen. En de schildpadden maakten het helemaal af. We hebben het geluk gehad er 7 te zien. Wat vooral heel mooi was om te zien, was het respect dat de gidsen hadden voor de natuur.
Response from Host, Sep 2024
Thank you for sharing your experience! We're thrilled to hear that you had such a special time walking on the dark beach and witnessing the turtles. Seeing seven turtles is truly a remarkable experience. We're also pleased that you appreciated the respect our guides have for nature. We hope to see you soon for more adventures in Cape Verde.
Isabel_I, Aug 2024
Fue muy emocionante llegamos justo cuando estaba poniendo los huevos y fue algo impresionante naturaleza en estado puro
Response from Host, Aug 2024
¡Qué experiencia tan increíble! Nos alegra mucho que hayas tenido la oportunidad de presenciar un momento tan impresionante en la naturaleza junto a nuestro equipo. ¡Gracias por compartir tu emoción con nosotros!
June_B, Jul 2024
El Tour sé supone que era en español, y sólo se habló en Inglés y portugués.
Nuestro guía muy amable y atento
Response from Host, Jul 2024
Gracias por tu comentario. Pedimos disculpas por cualquier confusión durante tu tour. Nuestros guías hablan español, inglés y portugués, y al comienzo de cada experiencia confirman si el inglés es adecuado para todos para asegurar una comunicación clara durante la explicación inicial. Si esto no quedó claro para ti, lamentamos cualquier inconveniente causado. Nuestros guías están más que dispuestos a realizar la explicación en español si así lo prefieren para garantizar que todos comprendan. Esperamos que hayas disfrutado de la experiencia y agradecemos tu comprensión.
Elena_L, Jul 2024
La calma esperando la tortuga en una época que todo son prisas y cuando la ves desovando es espectacular como es la naturaleza
Response from Host, Jul 2024
Muchas gracias Elena por tu comentario. Nos alegra mucho que hayas podido disfrutar de esta experiencia maravillosa apreciando que la naturaleza salvaje tiene su ritmo y solo premia a los pacientes de poder admirar este espectáculo único que es una especie en peligro de extinción como las tortugas marinas Caretta Caretta desovando en las playas de Cabo Verde. Esperamos verte pronto en Sal para más aventuras.
Richenda_S, Jul 2024
Eine tolle Tour mit nett Guits - absolut zu empfehlen. Der Moment als die Schildkröte aus dem Wasser kam war einmalig.
Response from Host, Jul 2024
Thank you so much for your kind review! We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the tour with our friendly guides. The moment when the turtle emerged from the water was indeed unforgettable. We appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you back again soon!
LilyMaria_S, Sep 2023
Unsere Reiseführerin war sehr charmant und wissend. Erklärte alles in Deutsch und Englisch!! Abendspaziergang am Strand war trotz Wind sehr angenehm..
Nur die Snacks ( Päckchen Erdnüsse) waren dürftig!
Response from Host, Sep 2023
We are pleased to hear that you had a charming and knowledgeable tour guide who explained everything in both German and English. An evening stroll on the beach sounds pleasant despite the wind. However, we regret that the snacks did not meet your expectations. Your feedback is important to us, and we will ensure that future tours offer a better selection of snacks. Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with us. We hope to welcome you back on one of our tours soon!
LIDIA_M, Aug 2023
Buena excursión, las tortugas preciosas y el guía lo hizo muy bien. Solo destacar que en el grupo en el que nos tocó vino una mujer borracha a la cual se debería haber echado de dicho tour. Molestó muchísimo, encendiendo el móvil, el flash, hablando alto y hasta acercándose demasiado a la tortuga. Se deberían tomar medidas más estrictas frente a este tipo de personas expulsándolas de la actividad, por respeto q las tortugas y por que estas pueden sufrir un estrés innecesario.
Response from Host, Aug 2023
Gracias por compartir tu opinión sobre la excursión. Nos complace que hayas disfrutado de las tortugas y que el guía haya hecho un buen trabajo. Lamentamos mucho la molestia que la presencia de esta persona haya podido causado durante la excursión. Tomamos en serio tus comentarios y estamos de acuerdo en que medidas más estrictas deben implementarse para asegurar que todos los participantes respeten el entorno y la vida salvaje. Estamos trabajando en mejorar nuestros protocolos para evitar situaciones similares en el futuro y garantizar una experiencia positiva para todos. Agradecemos tus comentarios y esperamos verte en futuras excursiones.
Delphine_M, Jul 2022
Super expérience, nous avons eu la chance de voir une tortue faire son nid et poser ses œufs dedans . Puis nous l’avons vue repartir à la mer.
Merci à Marta pour ses explications et à notre guide sur la plage pour trouvé une tortue.
Response from Host, Jul 2022
Mersi beaucoup Delphine, nous sommes très content que vous avez aimé l'experience. A bientôt!
Christophe_L, Jul 2022
Super équipe, très gentille, que l'on sent très impliquée dans le respect des tortues. Nous avons pu en voir 5 ! Merveilleuse expérience
Response from Host, Jul 2022
Mersi beaucoup por votre commentaire! On est très content que vous avez aimez l'experience!
From $45.78
per personup to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
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