Escape to the Beauty of Santiago Island with the Praia Santiago Island Highlights Tour

Have you always wanted to explore the stunning natural beauty of Cape Verde’s incredible Santiago Island? Then you won’t want to miss the chance to join the Praia Santiago Island Highlights Tour in Assomada.

This amazing tour in Assomada will take you on an exhilarating journey through the very best that this incredible country has to offer, taking in its unique landscapes, fascinating historical sites and gorgeous beaches. By the end of it you’ll be totally taken back by the richness of this archipelago, and you can make sure that you’ll never forget it.

So if you’re planning a trip to Cape Verde anytime soon, this is one tour that you definitely won’t want to miss out on. Keep reading to find out all about the Praia Santiago Island Highlights Tour in Assomada and why it offers one of the most amazing experiences that you could imagine.

What You’ll See on the Praia Santiago Island Highlights Tour

One of the best things about this particular tour is that it takes in some of the most breathtaking sights that you’ll find on Santiago Island. The tour begins in Assomada, known as the “city of flowers”, which is a fascinating old town surrounded by some breathtaking scenery. You’ll find plenty of narrow cobblestone streets here and plenty of colonial buildings to admire, along with several different churches where you can explore further.

From here, the tour continues on to Tarrafal and heads along one of the most picturesque roads in all of Cape Verde, passing through the dramatic mountain valleys and stunning coastal views along the way. Here you’ll have the chance to take in some of the most incredible beaches in the country, including Praia Grande and Ponta Verde – two of the very best. Don’t forget to bring your camera with you!

The drive from Tarrafal then continues on through Serra Malagueta National Park, where you’ll have the chance to take in some of Santiago’s most stunning mountain landscapes. You’ll also have the chance to explore the islands multiple fishing villages and enjoy a walk through Ribeira Brava or Palmeira, both of which offer something really special.

The final stop on the tour is

An Insider’s Guide to the Beauty of Santiago, Cape Verde Island

Are you planning to visit the magical Santiago Island in Cape Verde? No visit to this stunning island is complete without exploring Praia Santiago and its surrounding attractions. Santiago Island is an ideal destination for people seeking an escape to the dry, sun-baked Saharan landscapes, emerald green valleys, hidden caves, and turquoise-blue seas. This insider’s guide highlights some of the must-try experiences for anyone exploring Santiago Island, ranging from historical sites, dining spots, and cultural experiences.

Local Attractions in Santiago Island

Santiago Island has some exciting and extraordinary attractions that every traveler should visit. Top of the list is the Cidade Velha. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the oldest European settlement in the tropics and a former slave trading post. It also holds a centuries-old church, the remains of a gothic-style cathedral, and the iconic Forte Real de São Filipe. The Forte’s battlements overlook the Atlantic Ocean, providing visitors with an awe-inspiring view.

For adventurous travelers, a visit to the Rabelados Village, an eccentric, off the electric grid community, is a must-visit site in Santiago. The village community follows an eccentric and secretive Indian spiritual tradition and has resisted integration with the rest of society. Visitors to this community experience an unusual form of self-sustenance aided by a blend of ancient and new techniques.

For night owls, there are buzzing nightclubs in Praia that feature live music, dancing, and fantastic food to keep the night rolling. Alternatively, you could soak in the lush landscapes and blue seascape at the Tarrafal Beach or Monte Verde, some of the most beautiful beaches in Santiago Island.

Local Dining Spots and Food

Santiago Island offers unique culinary experiences that cater to every palate and budget. You’ll be spoilt for choice with a wide range of mouth-watering dishes that incorporate both Portuguese and African flavors. A must-try is the Cachupa, Cape Verde’s national food and a mix of corn and beans. Sokol, the Cape Verdean drink, is also a must-try, made from cane sugar and citrus fruits.

There’s no shortage of dining spots in Praia, with some of the best dining spots in Santiago Island located within the Plateau District. Among them is Le Prive, with its elegant interiors, impeccable service, and gastronomic delights that will send your taste buds on a memorable journey. For a more chill spot, the Scorpion Bar & Lounge offers home-cooked food and ice-cold beers in a laid-back environment.

Cultural Experiences in Santiago Island

Cape Verde is a melting pot of cultures, with each island showcasing its unique blend of African and Portuguese influences. The highly personalized arts scene is a must-visit in Santiago Island. Many local creatives are reinventing traditional crafts or finding new inspiration in contemporary themes.

You’ll enjoy and appreciate a unique blend of Cape Verdean poetic music, Morna, in many musical performances and shows. For cultural displays and art exhibitions, the National Museum, or Museu Etnográfico da Praia, is a must-visit site. You’ll learn about the island’s history, culture, and society through its unique collection of artifacts and images.

Local History and Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions in Santiago Island

Santiago Island boasts of a rich history that you’ll relish exploring. A trip to Cité Velha will provide insights into the island’s colonial and slave trading past. Fort Real de São Filipe, built-in 1585, was instrumental in protecting the island’s port and played a vital role in Cape Verde’s independence.

For off-the-beaten-path experiences, you can explore the Saharan landscapes, hidden caves, and emerald green valleys that give visitors a glimpse of the island’s hidden treasure. You may also visit the Calabaceira Cultural Cultural center to experience traditional dance performances and indulge in unique local food.

In conclusion, Santiago Island in Cape Verde has a lot to offer. A visit to this little paradise is incomplete without experiencing its unique blend of African and Portuguese cultures and its beautiful landscapes. With this insider’s guide, you are now prepared to explore all that Santiago Island has to offer.