12 Must-Try Tours & Things To Do In Cape Verde

Cape Verde is a destination that offers an intriguing mix of rugged landscapes, warm seas, and authentic local culture. Unlike many other island destinations that rely solely on beaches, Cape Verde’s tours let you explore its volcanoes, marine life, and local traditions.

Whether you’re interested in sailing, hiking, or learning about local cuisine, this archipelago provides a variety of experiences that cater to different tastes.

We particularly love the Sal Island Catxupa Cooking Class for its authentic taste of Cape Verdean hospitality and the Full-day sailing cruise for its perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. These experiences showcase the diversity of what Cape Verde offers beyond sunbathing.

If you’re looking for an active day out, the Hiking Tarrafal to D’Boche de Rotcha Beach offers stunning views and a chance to see marine life. For a more leisure-focused trip, the Catamaran Cruise or private snorkeling tours deliver a fantastic combination of scenic beauty and underwater discovery.

Whatever your style, Cape Verde’s tours are designed to give you a genuine taste of island life with a splash of adventure.

1. Sal Island: Catxupa Cooking Class with a local family

At number 1 on our list, the Sal Island: Catxupa Cooking Class with a local family offers a chance to dive into Cape Verdean cuisine in an authentic setting. Priced at just $41 per person and rated 4.7 out of 5 from 42 reviews, this experience promises more than just a cooking lesson—it’s a glimpse into local life.

The class is led by a welcoming local family who will teach you how to prepare Catxupa, a traditional stew filled with local ingredients, flavors, and stories.

What makes this tour stand out is its authenticity—you get to feel the warmth and hospitality of a typical Cape Verdean home while learning a recipe you’ll be eager to recreate back home. Besides the culinary skills, you’ll gain insights into local traditions and food culture.

This experience is perfect for food lovers, culture enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a meaningful connection with the island’s people.

Bottom Line: For an affordable, authentic taste of Cape Verdean hospitality and cuisine, this class offers an enriching, hands-on experience that leaves you with a new recipe and a new friend.

2. Full day sailing boat in Sal, Cape Verde: taste the Atlantic!

Sailing along the western coast of Sal on a full-day cruise is a perfect way to combine adventure with relaxation. For $164 per person, you’ll enjoy a luxurious day at sea with unlimited drinks, a freshly cooked lunch, and plenty of opportunities to swim in the clear Atlantic waters.

The boat typically spots dolphins, pilot whales, flying fish, and whales, making it a fantastic experience for wildlife lovers.

The highlight is the chance to disconnect from the mainland and enjoy the sea’s tranquility. The crew is attentive, and the boat features music and plenty of space to sunbathe. The calm waters and beautiful scenery make this a top choice for a laid-back, memorable day. It’s especially appealing if you prefer an active, outdoor experience with a touch of luxury.

Bottom Line: This cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a scenic, relaxing day with opportunities for wildlife sightings and great food on board.

3. Enjoy the Sea in Boa Vista – Private Boat Tour

For a truly personalized experience, the Enjoy the Sea in Boa Vista – Private Boat Tour offers exclusive access to the island’s stunning coastline. Priced at $587 per group up to 5 people, it’s perfect for families or small groups wanting a custom itinerary. The tour allows you to choose your route, whether to cruise, swim, or explore hidden bays and beaches.

Led by an experienced local captain, the boat provides comfortable seating and a high-quality sound system for your preferred music. The highlight is the flexibility—you can tailor your day to include snorkeling, relaxing, or sightseeing.

This is a more private, relaxed way to see Boa Vista’s crystal-clear waters and dramatic coastlines, and it’s a fantastic choice for travelers craving a bespoke experience.

Bottom Line: If privacy, comfort, and customizing your day matter most, this private boat tour offers a memorable, flexible day on the water.

4. Island tour in 4 4 or minibuses

Rated 5 out of 5 from just 1 review, the Island tour in 4 4 or minibuses takes you across Boa Vista, including a visit to see lemon sharks. For $41 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive look at the island’s cultural and natural highlights. It runs from 9:00 AM until 4:30 PM, covering key sites and landscapes.

Expect to learn about local traditions and the island’s geography from a knowledgeable, cheerful guide. The tour includes visits to iconic locations such as the salt lakes, desert areas, and coastal villages.

The highlight is the opportunity to see marine life like lemon sharks, along with plenty of photo-worthy scenery. The tour is suitable for those interested in a full-day cultural and nature experience with a relaxed pace.

Bottom Line: This tour is suited for travelers who want a well-rounded day exploring Boa Vista’s landscape and wildlife with a friendly, professional guide.

5. São Nicolau: Hiking Tarrafal – D’Boche de Rotcha Beach

Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 1 review, this 7-hour hike takes you from the fishing village of Tarrafal to D’Boche de Rotcha Beach. The walk is accessible and offers stunning coastal views, black volcanic rocks, and white coral sands. The itinerary includes dolphin sightings and plenty of natural beauty.

Starting at 8:00 AM, this tour is perfect for active travelers wanting more than just scenery; it’s about connecting with the island’s nature and local coastal life. The walk is easy enough for most fitness levels but still offers enough interest to keep you engaged. The beach at the end is a natural paradise, ideal for relaxing after the hike.

Bottom Line: For those who like a moderate walk combined with wildlife viewing and breathtaking scenery, this is a rewarding day out.

6. Secrets of Sal Island 4×4 Tour with Pedra da Lume Salt Lake

Rated 4.5 out of 5 from 4 reviews, this 4×4 tour explores inland Sal’s most iconic sights. The tour highlights Palmeira, a laid-back fishing village, Terra Boa’s desert mirage sands, and the Murdeira Bay vantage point. Of course, the visit to the salt lake of Pedra da Lume involves floating in mineral-rich waters inside an extinct volcano crater.

The guide is a local with extensive knowledge of Sal’s geography, making this a comprehensive and engaging tour. It’s a great way to see the less developed, more natural side of the island while enjoying some fun off-road driving. The mix of natural wonders and cultural stops makes this tour a good value for those wanting a full day of exploration.

Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for travelers who want to see Sal’s diverse landscapes and learn about the island’s natural history from an expert.

7. Sal Island Catamaran Cruise with All-inDrinks and Snacks

Rated 3.6 out of 5 from 7 reviews, this catamaran cruise offers a relaxed day with all-inclusive snacks and drinks. It’s a favorite for those who prefer chilling out over high-energy activities. You’ll sail around Sal, enjoying music onboard, sunbathing, and the scenic views.

With a swimming stop near Monte Leão, the cruise combines the thrill of being on the water with the beauty of the island’s coastline. The crew is friendly, and the boat’s spacious layout makes for a comfortable day. The main appeal is its laid-back vibe—perfect for unwinding.

Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a casual, scenic day on the water with tasty refreshments included.

8. Cape Verde: Private Snorkeling Tour

Priced at $352 per group up to 5, this private snorkeling trip on Boa Vista offers personalized underwater exploration. The tour provides snorkeling masks and tubes, and you’ll be guided by an experienced local captain who speaks excellent German.

The focus is on enjoying the crystal-clear waters and discovering the tropical fish species of Boa Vista’s reefs. It’s ideal for families or friends wanting an exclusive, flexible experience that can be tailored to your interests, whether that’s just relaxing or actively exploring marine life.

Bottom Line: For a private, customized underwater adventure, this snorkeling tour offers quality time in beautiful surroundings.

9. Cape Verde: Santa Maria Bay Dolphin Watching Tour

No reviews are currently listed, but the Dolphin Watching Tour in Santa Maria Bay is a highlight for marine lovers. For $100 per person, you cruise by jet boat, feeling the wind and watching for wild dolphins. The panoramic coastline views and the chance to learn about marine life from your guide make this a lively and engaging trip.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient for travelers based around Sal. The focus on wild dolphin sightings makes it a memorable, active excursion.

Bottom Line: This is an excellent choice for travelers eager to see dolphins in their natural habitat while enjoying an energetic boat ride.

10. Discover Scuba Diving for beginners

Priced at $93 per person, this introductory scuba dive is perfect for those new to diving. No experience is necessary, and the minimum age is 10. The tour provides all the necessary gear and guidance for one or two dives, depending on your comfort level.

This experience is great for travelers wanting a quick, safe introduction to underwater exploration. You’ll learn basic skills and get to see sea life up close, making it a memorable first step into scuba diving.

Bottom Line: Suitable for beginners curious about diving, this tour offers a safe, fun way to explore beneath the surface.

11. Highlights of Sal Tour by 4×4 & Catamaran

Rated reviews not provided, this full-day tour combines land and sea adventures, offering a rundown of Sal. For $123 per person, you’ll explore Terra Boa’s desert, visit Pedra da Lume Salt Lake, and relax on a catamaran cruise with music and an open bar.

The tour is perfect for travelers wanting a diverse experience—from desert landscapes and salt lakes to a scenic boat ride. It balances active exploration with relaxing moments, making it a well-rounded day.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want to see a variety of Sal’s highlights in one day, blending adventure with relaxation.

12. Reef snorkeling in Gatas Bay

Rated reviews not provided, this snorkeling trip explores Gatas Bay’s impressive coral reef. For $56 per person, you’ll enjoy snorkeling in one of Boa Vista’s clearest, most beautiful reef areas, famous for tropical fish and vibrant coral formations.

The tour includes a qualified guide, who speaks good German, and snorkeling gear. It’s a top choice for underwater photography and marine life lovers. You also get to sample local goat cheese and drinks after your swim.

Bottom Line: Perfect for underwater enthusiasts seeking rich coral reefs and a relaxed, guided snorkel.

How to Choose Your Cape Verde Tour

When deciding which tour to book, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. For a deep dive into local cuisine, the Sal Island Catxupa Cooking Class offers authentic culture. If relaxing on the water is your priority, the Catamaran Cruise or private boat tour will suit you well.

Active travelers may prefer the hiking trip on São Nicolau or the 4×4 island tour. For marine life lovers, the dolphin watching or snorkeling options are ideal. Remember to check the duration and logistics—some tours, like the full-day sailing, need a full day, while others, like the snorkeling trips, are shorter but no less impactful.

Booking early is advised, especially for popular activities like the full-day sailing cruise or private boat tours. And always double-check the age and fitness requirements to match your travel companions.

Final Thoughts

Cape Verde offers a fantastic variety of tours that suit every type of traveler. For those eager to connect with local culture, the Catxupa Cooking Class is a highlight. Adventure seekers will find plenty with hiking or sailing. Marine enthusiasts should not miss the chance to snorkel or spot dolphins.

Whether you want a relaxing day on a catamaran, an active hiking adventure, or a cultural excursion, Cape Verde’s tours deliver authentic, memorable experiences. To get the most out of your trip, consider booking in advance and choosing activities that match your interests and energy level.

No matter your choice, these experiences will leave you with stories and skills to remember long after you’ve left the islands.