Horse Riding in Sal Island – Cabo Verde

Imagine riding a well-trained horse across endless stretches of white sand, with salt flats shimmering to one side and the ocean’s spray on the other. That’s exactly what this horse riding tour promises, and based on hundreds of glowing reviews, it often delivers a memorable experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a total beginner, this tour offers a chance to see some of Sal Island’s most striking landscapes from horseback.

What we love about this experience are the friendly guides who seem genuinely committed to making every rider feel safe and comfortable, and the stunning scenery—from salt flats to kite beaches—that provides fantastic photo opportunities.

One possible drawback is that the tour can be less ideal for absolute beginners if safety concerns aren’t addressed, as some reviews mention inexperienced riders being put on horses without close supervision.

This tour is best suited for those who appreciate nature, want a taste of adventure, and enjoy a relaxed, small-group atmosphere. It’s especially appealing if you’re looking for a value-packed activity that combines scenic beauty with authentic riding experience.

This experience made our article of You’ll Love These 16 Tours & Things To Do In Santa Maria.

Key Points

• Guided small group tours ensure personalized attention and safety.
• Multiple ride durations cater to different fitness and time preferences.
• Stunning scenery includes salt flats and kite beaches, perfect for memorable photos.
• Safety measures like helmets and safety briefings are included, emphasizing rider security.
• Experienced guides help match horses to riders, making the experience accessible for all.
• Good value for money given the inclusion of transport, helmets, and insurance.

The Experience at a Glance

The tour starts with a convenient hotel pickup, making it easier for travelers to access the stables without hassle. You’ll be transferred to Santa Marilha Horse Excursions located in the lush Botanical Gardens Viveiro, where the adventure begins. The small group size—no more than eight riders—means you won’t be lost in a herd, and guides are there to tailor the ride to your skill level.

At the stables, you’ll find lockers to stow your belongings and CE-certified helmets for safety, which are mandatory. The staff’s professionalism is clear—they ask about your riding experience and weigh riders as a safety measure, ensuring horses are matched appropriately.

The Itinerary

The ride kicks off with a journey across the white sand dunes of Sal, leaving behind the salt flats of Santa Maria. For those taking the 1.5- or 2-hour options, the route continues toward Kite Beach, a spot renowned for its long stretches of golden sand and vibrant kite surfers. This stretch is where the thrill peaks, especially for more experienced riders who want to gallop along the surf—something many reviews highlight as a major highlight.

The guides lead you through the salt flats, where the landscape appears almost lunar, and then onto the beach, where the combination of ocean breeze and the sound of hooves creates a calming yet exhilarating atmosphere.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The guided approach is a major plus. With guides leading at a 1:2 ratio, they ensure everyone feels secure, whether it’s your first time on horseback or you’re more seasoned. Several reviews mention how guides carefully match horses to riders’ experience levels, creating a comfortable environment.

The scenery is genuinely spectacular. The salt flats, with their vast white expanse, reflect the sun and make for incredible photos. The beach section offers that classic postcard moment—riding along the shoreline, waves crashing nearby, and the wind in your hair. Reviewers consistently mention how these views are “amazing” and “beautiful,” emphasizing the visual value of the trip.

The horses are well cared for and calm, which reassures first-time riders. As one reviewer states, “the horses were friendly and they sent a staff to accompany me all the way,” which is a reassuring touch for nervous beginners.

The price of about $60 per person, including pickup, helmets, lockers, and insurance, offers particularly good value compared to similar activities elsewhere. Many reviews mention that the experience exceeded expectations for the cost.

The Itinerary in Detail

Meet and Greet at Santa Marilha Horse Excursions: After being picked up from your hotel, you’ll arrive at the stables set within the lush Botanical Gardens. Here, lockers are available, and you’ll receive a helmet—an essential safety measure. Staff ask about your riding experience and weigh each rider to ensure horses are matched properly—a sign of good safety practice.

Starting the Ride: The initial phase takes you across the salt flats of Santa Maria, a vast white landscape that looks almost surreal. The salt flats are a highlight—they look like a giant mirror on dry days and provide an otherworldly backdrop for photos. Riders of all levels appreciate the care guides take to match horses with individual skill, making the ride accessible while still fun.

The Salt Flats to Kite Beach: For 1.5- or 2-hour rides, the trail continues towards Kite Beach. This stretch is where the landscape shifts from salt flats to a magnificent golden sandy beach. The beach is broad and lively, with kite surfers flying overhead, providing a fun, dynamic scene. It’s the section where more confident riders get to enjoy galloping along the shoreline, a moment many reviews describe as “thrilling” and “unforgettable.”

Additional Highlights: Some rides include a stop at the Big Salt Mines of Santa Maria, where the mineral extraction creates a stark but beautiful environment. The guides also provide insights into local scenery, making the tour both scenic and educational.

Authentic Experiences and Real Opinions

Several reviews highlight what makes this tour special. For instance, one traveler mentions that the guides “match you with a horse by your skill level,” adding that the horses are “calm and very well looked after.” Many praise the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the beautiful scenery—from salt flats to beaches.

First-time riders particularly value the safety measures, including helmets and staff assistance, with one reviewer noting, “I felt safe even though I’m a novice.” That said, a review mentions that beginners should be cautious, as one rider’s son was scared when a horse bolted, reminding us that safety, always, depends on individual comfort and behavior.

The value for money comes through strongly in reviews. For about $60, with transport, helmets, insurance, and small group attention, many feel they’re getting a high-quality experience. Some even mention the opportunity to get great photos for a reasonable price, making the tour more than just a ride—it’s a memory maker.

Practical Details That Matter

The duration of the ride can be tailored—ranging from about 1 to 2 hours—so you can choose based on your fitness level or time constraints. The small group size enhances safety and personalized attention, which is especially reassuring for nervous riders or those unfamiliar with horses.

Pickup and drop-off are included, simplifying logistics and saving you the hassle of finding your way to the stables. The tour operates with several departure times, giving flexibility for your schedule.

Weight limits are set at 90kg per participant, and a moderate physical fitness level is recommended, ensuring that the ride remains enjoyable and safe. The insurance included adds peace of mind, covering any minor mishaps.

A Closer Look at the Reviews

The tour has received an almost perfect rating of 4.9 from over 500 reviews. Many rave about the friendly staff, well-cared-for horses, and beautiful scenery. A few reviews note that the guides are helpful and that the horses are calm, even for those new to riding.

One reviewer highlights their experience riding alone—”got lucky because I was the only one”—which made for a highly personalized experience. Another mentions that the guides do a great job matching horses to rider experience, which many see as a big plus.

There are some cautionary points, like the concern over horses’ welfare during seasonal rain, which caused some irritation and allergic reactions in horses last year. The provider responded openly, explaining that measures have been taken to prevent recurrence, demonstrating transparency and care.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This horseback riding tour on Sal Island offers a blend of scenic beauty, professional guidance, and good value. It’s a fantastic way to see the island’s salt flats, beaches, and perhaps even enjoy a gallop along the shore—moments that will stick with you long after your ride.

If you’re an experienced rider, you’ll appreciate the opportunity to gallop on the beach and enjoy the beautiful landscapes. For beginners or those with limited riding experience, the safety measures and attentive guides help make the experience accessible and enjoyable, as long as you’re aware of your comfort level.

Cost-wise, the inclusion of transport, helmets, lockers, and insurance makes it a straightforward outing that packs a punch both visually and emotionally. The small group setting ensures personalized attention, and the scenery—particularly the salt flats and kite beach—is truly photogenic and memorable.

This tour is well-suited for those who want a fun, scenic, and safe introduction to horse riding or a relaxing escape into nature. It’s a chance to connect with the landscape in a way that few other activities can match—by sitting on horseback and feeling the wind and sand beneath you.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are part of the package, making logistics simple and hassle-free.

What is the typical duration of the ride? You can choose between around 1 hour, 1.5 hours, or 2 hours, depending on your preference.

Are helmets provided? Yes, CE-certified helmets are included and are mandatory for safety.

Can beginners participate? Yes, but they should be aware that the guides match horses to experience levels and that safety measures are in place. Some reviews note that beginners might find certain situations challenging.

What is the maximum weight allowed? Participants weighing up to 90kg are welcome.

How many people are in each group? Tours are limited to eight riders per group, ensuring personalized attention.

Is insurance included? Yes, the tour provides insurance coverage, adding peace of mind.

What should I bring? Comfortable clothing, and if you want, you can bring a camera for photos; the tour offers opportunities for great shots along the salt flats and beach.

Final Verdict

This horseback riding tour on Sal Island is a wonderful way to experience the island’s natural beauty from a different perspective. The guides’ professionalism, the stunning scenery, and the well-cared-for horses combine to create an activity suitable for a range of ages and skill levels.

It offers excellent value and the kind of authentic, memorable experience that will have you reminiscing long after your trip ends. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed ride or a more exhilarating gallop along the shoreline, this tour has a lot to offer. Just remember to communicate your comfort level and enjoy the ride!