16 Best Tours & Things To Do In Santa Maria Cape Verde (With Reviews & Prices)

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The 16 Best Tours & Things To Do in Santa Maria Cape Verde

Santa Maria on the island of Sal is a lively hub for travelers looking to blend relaxation with adventure. What makes it stand out is its diverse activities, from exploring underwater reefs teeming with marine life to discovering local culture and trying your hand at surfing.

We love how many tours offer authentic experiences—like talking to biologists during turtle watching or tasting Cape Verdean tapas with local families—which give visitors a real taste of the island.

For those wanting a mix of fun and discovery, Santa Maria offers activities that match all interests and energy levels. Just remember, booking early helps ensure you get the best slots for popular excursions.

One thing is certain: whether you’re into thrilling ziplining, snorkeling among shipwrecks, or relaxing on a catamaran, Santa Maria’s tour options are plentiful.

Our favorites include the guided full-day highlights tour, which packs in volcano crater swimming, island sightseeing, and local village visits, and the all-inclusive adults-only catamaran, perfect for unwinding on a peaceful cruise. Keep reading for a detailed look at all 16 top activities to help you choose what’s best for your trip.

1. Sal Island: Guided Full-Day Highlights Tour with Lunch

A standout for first-timers, this full-day tour offers a relaxed pace with big rewards. It includes swimming inside an extinct volcano crater at Pedra de Lume, where you float in the second-saltiest water in the world. You’ll visit palm-lined fishing villages like Palmeira, explore Espargos, and marvel at the “Blue Eye” in Buracona—one of Cape Verde’s seven wonders.

The tour also includes a walk near lemon sharks at Shark Bay, providing a memorable close encounter with marine life. With a mix of nature, local culture, and scenic views, it’s a great introduction to Sal’s highlights.

The included lunch adds value, making it a satisfying way to spend the day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a rundown with convenient logistics.

2. Ilha do Sal: Buggy with Local Guide

For those craving a hands-on adventure, the Buggy tour brings the offroad excitement right to your doorstep. Led by a local guide, you’ll explore iconic sites like Salinas de Santa Maria and Kite Beach, with the added thrill of driving through rugged terrain. The tour also visits Shark Bay, giving you a chance to see the ocean up close.

Because it’s run with a knowledgeable guide, you get insight into local life and the island’s landscapes while enjoying the adrenaline rush of offroading.

The review score of 4.9/5 reflects how much travelers love this energetic trip.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventure seekers who want to see the island from a different perspective with a bit of speed.

3. From Santa Maria: Sal Island Zipline Experience (Official)

If soaring above the landscape sounds appealing, this zipline tour delivers. It’s set in the Serra Negra Natural Reserve, where you’ll zipline over scenic ridges with ocean views in the distance. The roundtrip transportation from Santa Maria makes it easy to fit into your day.

After the adrenaline rush, you’ll relax and dance to Cape Verdean rhythms, making this a perfect combo of thrill and culture. With a 4.7/5 rating, it’s clear that many visitors find this tour both exciting and memorable.

The experience suits active travelers who love outdoor adventures with a stunning backdrop.
Bottom Line: A must-do for thrill-seekers who want a panoramic view with a side of local music and fun.

4. Santa Maria: Guided Snorkeling Shipwreck and Reef Tour

For underwater explorers, this snorkeling tour is a superb choice. It takes you to Bolama wreck and Farol reefs, where you can see colorful tropical fish, rays, turtles, and eels.

The guided aspect makes it accessible to all skill levels, and the focus on local reefs means you’ll get a good overview of Sal’s marine biodiversity. Many reviewers mention how safe and easy the experience is, even for beginners.

It’s ideal if you want to enjoy the sea without needing prior experience or equipment.
Bottom Line: A fantastic, hassle-free way to discover Sal’s underwater world with plenty of marine life to see.

5. Sal: Espargos City Tour, Local Life, and Cape Verde Tapas

Get to know the island’s capital, Espargos, on this guided city tour. You’ll visit important sites, learn about local history, and experience the laid-back pace of life. Tasting Cape Verdean tapas and drinks, along with discovering street art, makes this an immersive cultural experience. The guide will take you into local neighborhoods, connecting you with the people and their stories.

It’s a low-key, affordable option—just $35 per person—that offers a genuine glimpse into Sal’s daily life.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who love cultural insights and authentic local flavors.

6. 3-hour Catamaran Adventure on the waters of Sal Island

Relaxation is the word here. This catamaran cruise lets you cruise for three hours along Sal’s coast with snacks and drinks served on board. It’s perfect for couples or anyone wanting a peaceful escape, with opportunities to swim or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters. The gentle ocean breeze and panoramic views make it a soothing experience, especially on a sunny day.

Reviews highlight how calming and enjoyable this trip is, with many saying it’s a highlight of their stay.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for those seeking a slow-paced, scenic retreat on the water.

7. Santa Maria: Discover Scuba Diving

New to diving? This Discover Scuba experience offers an introduction to underwater exploration without the need for certification. You’ll learn the basics in a pool and then head out for an ocean dive, where you can admire marine creatures like fish, turtles, and coral.

It’s a fantastic way to see the underwater world if you’re not ready for a full certification. The 4.9/5 reviews show how well this activity is managed, with expert instructors guiding each step.

It’s best for active travelers curious about diving but not yet committed.
Bottom Line: Perfect for beginners eager to dip their toes into SCUBA.

8. Sal Island: Quad Tour with Local Guide

For a full-throttle experience, the quad tour hits all the major sights—Salinas, Serra Negra, Shark Bay, Buracona, and Palmeira. Led by a local guide, you’ll cover rugged terrain and visit iconic spots that showcase the island’s diverse landscapes.

The reviews praise the detailed guidance and the fun of off-road driving, making it a great choice for active travelers wanting to see more than just the beaches.

The tour is priced at $58, offering a good value considering the comprehensive itinerary.
Bottom Line: An exciting option for thrill-seekers wanting to explore inland Sal with a knowledgeable guide.

9. Santa Maria: Sal Island Sea Turtle Watching Experience

Sea turtle lovers will find this turtle watching tour fascinating. It’s a chance to see these gentle creatures in their natural nesting habitat while talking with biologists about their life cycle. The tour is designed to be educational and respectful, emphasizing conservation. Reviewers mention the chance to learn about the spawning process firsthand, making it a meaningful experience.

It’s suitable for eco-conscious travelers and families interested in wildlife.
Bottom Line: A memorable, educational outing for nature and animal lovers.

10. Santa Maria: Salt Mine, Natural Pool, and Shark Bay Tour

This full-day tour combines Sal’s top attractions—salt mines, natural pools, and Shark Bay—perfect for those wanting a well-rounded experience. It includes visits to the Blue Eye, salt extraction sites, and the natural swimming hole at Miragem.

Guides with over 10 years of experience ensure a safe and engaging trip. The tour offers a good mix of history, nature, and marine encounters at $34 per person.

Many travelers appreciate the professional guidance and the chance to support local businesses.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive tour suited for travelers who want to see the island’s highlights in one day.

11. Sal: All-inclusive Salt Lake, Natural pools and Shark Bay

For a private, luxurious experience, this all-inclusive half-day trip offers exclusivity and comfort. It includes visits to Salinas salt lake, Blue Eye, and Shark Bay, with swimming and relaxing in the natural pools. The group stays small, and the guide customizes the experience, making it ideal for couples or small families.

The $293 price includes all transportation and local guide expertise, ensuring a smooth, personalized day.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking comfort, privacy, and a tailored experience.

12. Santa Maria City Tour & Cuscuz Tasting with a Local Family

This tour combines cultural exploration with culinary delights. You’ll explore Santa Maria with a local guide, visiting the market, Shells Beach, and salt pans, then end with a cuscuz tasting at a local family home. It’s a wonderful way to connect with local life and enjoy authentic food. Reviewers highlight the warmth of the family hosts and the insight into Cape Verdean traditions.

It’s perfect for travelers eager to combine sightseeing with a genuine taste of local cuisine.
Bottom Line: An authentic cultural and culinary experience that supports local families.

13. Sal Island: Santa Maria City Tour, Street Art, and Tapas

Explore Santa Maria’s lively streets on this guided city tour. You’ll visit key monuments, admire colorful street art, and sample local tapas, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

The tour includes hotel pickup, making logistics straightforward, and the guide provides insights into the island’s traditions and souvenirs. It’s a good pick for those who want to see the city’s highlights and enjoy some local flavors.

The reviews note the friendly guide and the chance to take memorable photos.
Bottom Line: A lively, cultural tour suited for those wanting a taste of Santa Maria’s urban charm.

14. Sal: Surf Lesson

Ready to ride the waves? This surf lesson caters to all levels, from complete beginners to those looking to polish their skills. You’ll receive personalized guidance from experienced instructors in the calm waters of Sal.

The lesson covers the basics like “pop up” techniques and wave balance, making it accessible even for first-timers. Many reviewers mention how friendly and patient the instructors are, and how much fun they had.

It’s best suited for active travelers eager to learn a new skill in a stunning setting.
Bottom Line: Perfect for surf newbies or those wanting to improve their skills in Cape Verde’s gentle surf.

15. Sal Island, Salinas, Buracona and Lemon Shark

This tour combines several of Sal’s top attractions into one seamless experience. You’ll visit the Salinas salt lake, the Blue Eye (Buracona), and Shark Bay, where you can see lemon sharks in their natural habitat. The local guides offer an in-depth look at each site, making it a stress-free way to explore the island’s highlights.

The reviews note how well-organized and informative the trip is, with the opportunity to experience marine life interactively.

It’s a great choice for travelers wanting a balanced mix of sightseeing and wildlife encounters.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, rewarding tour for those wanting to maximize their time on Sal.

16. Santa Maria: Sal Island All-inclusive Adults-only Catamaran

For a luxurious unwind, this adults-only catamaran offers an elegant way to enjoy Sal’s coastline. With all-inclusive snacks and drinks, music, and entertainment, it’s a relaxing cruise ideal for couples or adults seeking a serene escape. You’ll glide past stunning scenery and have the chance to swim in clear waters near Monte Leão. The crew’s friendly approach ensures a memorable day.

With a 4.2/5 rating, it’s a quieter, more refined experience that emphasizes comfort and scenic beauty.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those looking for a sophisticated, adult-focused cruise experience.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Santa Maria

When selecting your activities, consider your interests and energy levels. For a full-day adventure with diverse sights, the full-day highlights tour offers excellent value. If you’re after adrenaline, the zipline or quad tour will satisfy your craving for excitement. For a relaxing day, the catamaran cruise or adults-only cruise is ideal.

Budget travelers might prefer the Espargos city tour, while eco-focused visitors should try the sea turtle or shipwreck snorkeling experiences. The best advice is to match your tour choice with your interests and planned time on the island.

Final Thoughts

Santa Maria offers a rich variety of tours that cater to every type of traveler. From the comprehensive full-day highlights to relaxing catamaran cruises, you’ll find options to suit your pace and interests. For adventure lovers, the buggy and quad tours deliver adrenaline, while those seeking tranquility might opt for snorkeling or turtle watching.

If you’re visiting during peak season, it’s wise to book your preferred excursions early. Whether you’re into wildlife encounters, cultural insights, or simply soaking up the sun on a boat, Santa Maria has something memorable waiting for you. Pick what excites you most, and enjoy your trip to one of Cape Verde’s most lively and scenic spots.