Boa Vista Island: Full-Day Wild Beaches & Viana Desert Tour

If you’re looking to experience the raw, unspoiled beauty of Boa Vista Island in Cape Verde, this full-day tour offers a well-balanced mix of natural wonders and local culture. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see the island’s wild beaches, explore a breathtaking desert, and get a taste of the history behind abandoned villages and salt mines—all with knowledgeable guides to enrich the experience.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour: the chance to swim in pristine, turtle-spotting beaches and the opportunity to wander through one of Cape Verde’s most remarkable landscapes, the Viana Desert. The tour’s storytelling and local insights are another highlight, making sure you’re not just ticking sights off a list but truly understanding the island’s story.

A potential drawback? Since it’s a full day packed with different stops, some travelers might find the itinerary busy, especially if they prefer more relaxed, less structured days. It’s also a group tour, so if you’re after privacy or a more personalized experience, you might want to consider private options or smaller guides.

This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy seeing diverse landscapes, are comfortable in a group setting, and want a genuine taste of Boa Vista’s wild side. If you’re curious about local flora, fauna, and history, or keen to swim in sea turtle nesting sites, this adventure could be just the ticket.

This experience made our article of We Rank Boa Vista Island’s 16 Top Tours & Things To Do.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines beaches, desert, and historical sites in one day.
• Wild Beaches & Turtles: Swim in Ervatão Beach, a key nesting site for loggerhead turtles.
• Cultural Insights: Visit the ghost town of Curral Velho and learn about Cape Verde’s history.
• Scenic Landscapes: Walk through over 10 km of white sand dunes in the Viana Desert.
• Expert Guide: Knowledgeable local guides enhance the understanding of each stop.
• Value for Money: At $100, it offers a full-day immersion into Boa Vista’s natural and cultural riches.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Boa Vista: What to Expect on the Tour

This full-day adventure, operated by Bu Country Tours, promises a well-rounded look at Boa Vista’s most striking natural landscapes and an introduction to its intriguing history. The tour starts with a pickup from your accommodation—if you’re staying in a central location—before heading out into the northeast of the island.

Transportation and Group Size: Expect comfortable transportation suitable for the off-road adventures ahead. The tour is conducted in a group setting, making it a social and engaging experience, though the specifics about the minimum or maximum group size aren’t provided. Keep in mind that for guests staying at the Hotel Riu Touareg, there is an extra fee for pickup and drop-off, so plan accordingly.

Fonte Vicente Oasis: An Introduction to Native Flora

The first stop is at Fonte Vicente Oasis. Here, your guide will point out the local flora, including fig, almond, tamarind, and the exotic baobab tree. This spot offers a chance to appreciate unspoiled nature, with some insights into the local fauna and the importance of these native trees. We loved the way guides make the natural environment come alive with stories and facts, making this more than just a quick photo stop.

Curral Velho: A Ghost Town with a Story

Next, you’ll visit Curral Velho, an abandoned fishing village that once thrived before drought and pirate attacks pushed residents away. This haunting settlement offers a glimpse into the island’s harder past and the resilience of its people. You’ll walk around the ruins, explore the salt mine, and hear tales from your guide about the town’s history. Several reviews mentioned how engaging and knowledgeable guides like Jayson and Damaris make these stops memorable and informative.

Beaches of João Barrosa and Ervatão: Swimming & Turtle Watching

The highlight for many is the visit to Ervatão Beach, renowned as a critical nesting site for loggerhead turtles. Weather permitting, you’ll have the chance to swim in its turquoise waters—an unforgettable experience. Travelers have praised this stop highly, with one reviewer noting, “Great beaches, bays, and a beautiful desert,” along with excellent food at a local restaurant.

Ervatão isn’t just a pretty place; it’s a vital ecological site where turtles come to lay eggs. Watching them or simply soaking in the wild, untouched beauty makes this a highlight for nature lovers.

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Lunch at Fundo das Figueiras

After a morning of exploration, you’ll enjoy a laid-back lunch at Fundo das Figueiras. The local atmosphere and delicious food allow you to relax while soaking in the authentic vibe of Cape Verde. Reviewers frequently mention the quality of the meal, describing it as “really great,” and a perfect way to recharge before heading into the desert landscapes.

The Viana Desert: A Landscape Like No Other

The tour concludes with a visit to Viana Desert, one of Cape Verde’s seven wonders. Over 10 km of white sand dunes stretch out before you, offering stunning views and fantastic photo opportunities. Walking among these towering dunes, you’ll realize why this landscape is considered a must-see when visiting Boa Vista.

The dunes’ vastness can be humbling, and many travelers noted the surreal feeling of being in such an otherworldly environment. It’s a perfect spot to reflect on the island’s natural diversity.

The Practical Side: What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers pickup and drop-off at your accommodation, transportation throughout the day, and a knowledgeable guide. Liability insurance is included, providing peace of mind. However, lunch is not included, so you might want to bring some snacks or plan for a quick meal at Fundo das Figueiras.

What to bring: comfortable shoes for walking, a sun hat, swimwear, sunscreen, and lightweight clothing. The tour operates in several languages, including English, Portuguese, French, Spanish, and Italian, making it accessible to international travelers.

Group Size & Booking Flexibility

Given that this is a shared group tour, it’s worth noting that the minimum number of participants may be required for operation. If the minimum isn’t met, the tour provider might suggest an alternative date or a private tour at an extra cost. If you’re staying at the Riu Touareg, be prepared for an additional fee for pickup and drop-off.

Cancellation & Rescheduling

Cancellations are straightforward—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—offering some flexibility if your plans change.

Authentic Experiences & Real Traveler Feedback

The reviews speak volumes about what you can expect. Travelers appreciated guides like Jayson and Damaris, praising their explanations, good humor, and friendly attitude. One said, “The tour guide Jayson provided us with a lot of explanations which allowed us to learn a lot about Boa Vista,” emphasizing the educational aspect of the trip.

Others raved about the landscapes: “When you’re in Boa Vista, you have to take a tour. Great beaches, bays, and a beautiful desert,” and “The food at the local restaurant was excellent.” Such remarks highlight how the tour combines natural beauty with local gastronomy and culture, making it a well-rounded experience.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is a fantastic choice for active travelers eager to see multiple facets of Boa Vista in one day. If you enjoy stunning beaches, desert landscapes, and historical sites, this itinerary delivers a lot of value for the price. It’s especially suitable for those interested in ecology, local history, and scenic photography.

While it offers an immersive experience, it’s best for visitors comfortable with group excursions and a full day’s outing. If you prefer relaxation over activity or private, tailored experiences, consider other options or private guides.

This tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, education, and genuine local flavor. It’s a smart way to discover Boa Vista’s best features without missing out on the island’s wild, untouched charm.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at your accommodation are included in the tour price, with extra charges if staying at the Riu Touareg.

How long does the tour last?
It’s a full-day experience, with the itinerary designed to fill approximately 8 hours, including travel, stops, and meals.

Do I need to bring my own lunch?
No, lunch is not included, but you are taken to Fundo das Figueiras, where you can enjoy local food. It’s a good idea to bring snacks if needed.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While generally suitable for active children, the tour involves walking and exposure to the sun, so ensure they are comfortable with these conditions.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, weather permitting, you’ll have the opportunity to swim at Ervatão Beach, a prime nesting site for loggerhead turtles.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, lightweight clothes, sun protection (hat and sunscreen), and swimwear are recommended.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak Portuguese, English, French, Spanish, and Italian.

What if I want a private experience?
You can opt for a private tour, but it will likely involve an extra fee and should be scheduled in advance.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Is this tour eco-friendly?
Since it visits a turtle nesting site, responsible tourism practices are encouraged. The guide will likely share tips on respecting the environment.

Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or simply seeking a day of adventure, this full-day tour of Boa Vista offers a well-rounded, memorable experience—delivering the island’s wild beauty and authentic character right to your doorstep.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby