The Top 14 Tours & Things To Do In Sal Rei

Sal Rei is a fantastic base for exploring the diverse attractions of Boa Vista Island in Cape Verde. Its rugged landscapes, pristine beaches, and lively local culture make it a perfect spot for a variety of tours. Whether you’re into adrenaline-pumping sandboarding, discovering shipwrecks, or relaxing with a beachside lunch, Sal Rei offers something for every type of traveler.

We especially enjoyed the Boa Vista: Shark, Turtles, Cave, Sandboarding & Tasting Tour, which combines wildlife encounters with fun activities and local flavors, giving a well-rounded taste of the island’s natural riches.

For those craving adventure, the North of Boa Vista Quad Adventure stands out as a must-do, taking you through the Viana Desert to see the famous shipwreck and feel the thrill of riding a quad bike.

For a more laid-back day, the Full-Day North to South Discovery offers a comprehensive look at Boa Vista’s key sights, including Santa Monica Beach and the old Cabo Santa Maria shipwreck. Whatever your style, this list will help you pick the perfect way to make your stay in Sal Rei unforgettable.

1. Boa Vista: Shark, Turtles, Cave, Sandboarding & Tasting Tour

This guided tour on Boa Vista offers a lively mix of wildlife, adventure, and local flavor. For just $70 per person, you get to see sharks and turtles in their natural habitat, explore caves, and visit Santa Monica Beach—one of the most stunning beaches on the island.

The tour’s highlight is sandboarding on the rolling dunes of Morro de Arreia, which is perfect if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush. The guides are personable and friendly, making the off-road safari both fun and informative.

After exploring the natural beauty, there’s the chance to sample local spirits like grogue, Pontche, and Risois, adding a cultural touch.

What makes this tour stand out is its combination of wildlife, scenery, and tasting, which appeals to travelers wanting a comprehensive experience. The reviews praise the guides’ friendliness and the variety of activities. The value for money is excellent considering the diverse excursions packed into a single day. Best suited for active travelers who enjoy mixing nature with local culture.

Bottom Line: A well-rounded, engaging tour perfect for those who want wildlife encounters combined with adventure and local flavors.

2. Sal Rei: Boa Vista North 4×4 Jeep Expedition 4h

For around $65 per person, this 4-hour off-road adventure takes you deep into the north of Boa Vista. The tour explores the island’s lesser-visited areas, giving you a chance to learn about its culture, history, and curiosities.

The highlight is visiting the famous shipwreck at Cabo Santa Maria, a hauntingly beautiful relic from 1968. The guides are knowledgeable and eager to share stories, making the journey both educational and entertaining.

This tour is ideal if you want to get off the beaten path without committing a full day. It’s also great for families and travelers interested in local lore, with the shipwreck as a dramatic centerpiece. The reviews are notably high, with travelers appreciating the authentic insights and the opportunity to see parts of the island most travelers miss.

Bottom Line: An excellent short adventure for history buffs and explorers wanting to see Boa Vista’s authentic side.

3. North of Boa Vista Quad Adventure: Shipwreck & Viana Desert

If you’re after a thrill, this 2-hour quad bike tour is a top pick. Priced at $106 for up to two people, it’s a fantastic way to experience Boa Vista’s iconic shipwreck and the expansive Viana Desert. The trip includes equipment, hotel transfers, and a guided ride through the dunes, allowing you to feel the wind and dust on your face.

The highlight is exploring the Spanish cargo shipwreck, which has been lying on the shore since 1968. You’ll also discover the Viana Desert, one of the Seven Wonders of Cape Verde, with its vast, golden dunes.

Rated 5/5 with 59 reviews, this tour is praised for its excitement and the stunning scenery. It’s best suited for travelers comfortable on a quad and looking for a high-energy experience. The combination of desert landscape and historical shipwreck makes it both fun and memorable. Perfect for adventure seekers who want a dose of history and adrenaline.

Bottom Line: An exhilarating, scenic ride through desert and history—ideal for active travelers craving adventure.

4. Sal Rei, Santa Monica Beach, Caves, Dunes & Shipwreck Tour

This small-group day trip offers a comprehensive tour of Boa Vista’s top sights for $94 per person. Starting from the north, you’ll visit Santa Monica Beach, known for its breathtaking beauty, as well as explore caves and the Viana Desert.

The tour also includes a stop at the iconic Cabo Santa Maria shipwreck. The guides are local and knowledgeable, sharing stories about the island’s history and natural features.

The tour is praised for its comfort, with air-conditioned vehicles and small groups that enhance the experience. Many reviewers mention the delicious beachside lunch and the ability to relax and take photos. It’s perfect for travelers who want a full-day, easy-paced exploration with good local insights.

Bottom Line: A relaxed, all-in-one tour suitable for those seeking an overview of Boa Vista’s highlights in one day.

5. Boa Vista Island: 4-Hour Rabil, Viana Desert & Shipwreck Tour

This streamlined 4-hour tour offers a quick yet thorough look at Boa Vista’s treasures for just over $52 per person. Starting with a visit to Rabil, you’ll meet local artisans and explore their clay crafts.

Then, you’ll head into the Viana Desert to walk barefoot on the dunes and see goats grazing. The tour concludes at Cabo Santa Maria, where you can admire the shipwreck and enjoy a scenic view before heading back.

Rated perfect by 31 reviews, this tour’s strength lies in its balance—covering cultural, natural, and historic sights efficiently. It’s ideal for visitors with limited time but wanting a meaningful glimpse of the island’s highlights. The guides are known for their friendliness and storytelling.

Bottom Line: A compact, culturally rich tour for travelers on a tight schedule who want maximum variety.

6. ALL-INCLUSSIVE Cabrer Journey – Live a day like a Cabrer

For $52.27 per person, this immersive experience takes you into authentic Cape Verdean rural life. It starts with a drumming session, then you learn how to milk goats, feed animals, and visit local families. The tour includes hands-on activities, like pottery making and tasting traditional foods, making it ideal for travelers who want genuine cultural encounters.

Rated 5/5 by 24 reviews, guests love the warm welcome and the real-life look at local traditions. The tour is perfect for those interested in authentic Cape Verdean culture and rural life, with a focus on participation rather than just sightseeing.

Bottom Line: An engaging, authentic cultural experience, best for travelers eager to connect with local life.

7. Boa Vista: Beautiful Beaches, Turtles & Djeu Island Snorkel

This snorkeling adventure for $100 per person combines marine life, beach time, and sandboarding. Visiting the uninhabited Djeu Island, you’ll snorkel among colorful fish and coral, then explore the beaches and dunes. Expect to see turtles and sharks in their natural habitat, with the opportunity to go sandsurfing on the biggest dunes.

Rated 4.6/5 with 72 reviews, it’s a favorite for marine lovers and active families. The guides are friendly and knowledgeable, making snorkeling and sandboarding accessible even for beginners. It’s a full day of fun, nature, and relaxation.

Bottom Line: A versatile tour combining underwater exploration, wildlife, and adventure—great for active, curious travelers.

8. Boa Vista: Night Buggy Tour under the Starry Sky

Experience Boa Vista’s desert at night on this $187 group buggy ride. With special lights to safely navigate the dunes, you’ll enjoy riding through the Viana Desert as the stars come out. The tour also includes a scenic drive through Sal Rei, giving you a different perspective of the island.

Rated 5/5 with 17 reviews, travelers rave about the thrill of night riding and the stunning night sky, sometimes even catching a glimpse of the Milky Way. It’s suited for those who want a memorable, atmospheric adventure and don’t mind a late-night outing.

Bottom Line: An extraordinary night-time desert adventure perfect for night sky lovers and thrill-seekers.

9. Sal Rei: Boa Vista Island Full-Day North to South Discovery

This full-day tour costs $94 and covers Boa Vista’s major attractions from north to south. Starting in the village of Rabil, you’ll visit Santa Monica Beach, the shipwreck at Cabo Santa Maria, and the caves of Varandinha Beach. The tour combines cultural sites, natural beauty, and opportunities to swim or relax on the beach.

Rated 4.5/5, reviewers highlight the variety and scenic stops, plus the knowledgeable guides who share insights into the island’s environment and history. It’s suitable for travelers wanting a rundown without rushing.

Bottom Line: An all-encompassing day trip, ideal for first-time visitors wanting the highlights.

10. Boa Vista Tour: Santa Monica, Desert & Shipwreck

This 6-hour tour for $91.89 features an active exploration of Boa Vista’s best sights. Starting with Morro de Areia’s sand dunes, it moves on to Varandinha caves, Santa Monica Beach, and the Viana Desert. The trip includes a beachside lunch and time to relax or swim.

Rated 4.5/5, travelers love the mix of landscapes and the opportunity to see turtles and the famous shipwreck. The itinerary is well-paced, especially for those who want a full but manageable day of sightseeing with a small group.

Bottom Line: A rich, varied day that balances adventure, relaxation, and cultural insights.

11. Boa Vista Island: Half-day Northern Tour + Viana Desert Adventure

This private tour offers a flexible, personalized experience for about $64 per person. It covers Rabil, the Viana Desert, and the shipwreck at Cabo Santa Maria, with the convenience of hotel transfers. The guide customizes the pace and stops based on your interests.

Rated 5/5, reviews mention the friendly guide, interesting artisan visits, and the stunning desert scenery. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a tailored, relaxed half-day adventure.

Bottom Line: A customizable, intimate tour ideal for those seeking a personal connection and flexibility.

12. Short Snorkeling Trip

A quick, two-hour snorkeling trip for $35 takes you to Sal Rei’s bay and the nearby Djeu Island. You’ll swim among colorful fishes and explore coral gardens, making this suitable for families or anyone wanting a taste of marine life without a full-day commitment.

Rated 4.4/5, reviewers enjoy the easy, accessible snorkeling experience. It’s a simple but enjoyable way to see Boa Vista’s underwater world, especially if you’re pressed for time or prefer shorter activities.

Bottom Line: A quick, family-friendly introduction to Boa Vista’s underwater beauty.

13. Boa Vista: Turtles, Sharks, City of Sal Rei, Santa Monica Beach, Shipwreck

This comprehensive tour for $84 combines both cultural exploration of Sal Rei and wildlife spotting. Highlights include a high chance of seeing turtles at Turtle Bay, along with opportunities to go sandboarding and learn about local life from a knowledgeable guide. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a broad overview of both town and nature.

Rated 5/5, the tour is praised for its authentic atmosphere and informative narration. It suits active travelers interested in both marine life and local culture.

Bottom Line: A well-rounded, engaging tour for those wanting the full Boa Vista package.

14. Boa Vista Island: Full-Day Wild Beaches & Viana Desert Experience

This 7-hour trip at $92.32 per person takes you across Boa Vista’s most wild and scenic locations. You’ll visit São Roque Church, the Curral Velho salt mine, and Ervatão Beach, with plenty of opportunities to meet locals and see nesting turtles. The tour emphasizes both natural beauty and cultural stories.

Rated 5/5, travelers appreciate the diverse stops and the chance to see loggerhead turtles laying eggs. It’s suitable for active explorers who want a full day of variety and discovery.

Bottom Line: A comprehensive day for travelers wanting an in-depth look at Boa Vista’s natural and cultural attractions.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When planning your activities in Sal Rei, consider your budget, interests, and physical fitness. For wildlife and adventure, the Boa Vista: Shark, Turtles, Cave, Sandboarding & Tasting Tour and the Quad Adventure are excellent options. If you prefer a relaxed, cultural experience, the All-Inclusive Cabrer Journey or the Full-Day North to South Discovery will give you a thorough look at the island.

For marine lovers, snorkeling trips such as the Boa Vista: Beautiful Beaches, Turtles & Djeu Island Snorkel are a fantastic choice. If you’re pressed for time but want a taste of everything, the Half-day Northern Tour + Viana Desert offers a quick, rich experience.

Booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours like the night buggy ride or the full-day excursions during peak season. Think about whether you prefer guided group tours or private experiences—they both have their charms.

Final Thoughts

Sal Rei truly offers a variety of experiences—from adrenaline-pumping sandboarding and quad biking to serene beach days and cultural visits. If you love wildlife and adventure, the Sandboarding & Wildlife Tour and quad adventures are top contenders. For those seeking a balanced mix of relaxation and discovery, the Full-Day North to South Tour and Small-Group Explorations are excellent choices.

No matter your style, the key to a memorable trip in Sal Rei is choosing activities that match your pace and interests. Book early, especially for popular options, and prepare to enjoy the diverse landscapes and warm Cape Verdean hospitality. Your adventure awaits!