Everything You Need to Know About Sal, Pedra de Lume Salt Pans and Lake Trip

There’s no doubt about it, Pedra de Lume Salt Pans and Lake Trip in Sal are among the most beautiful, unique and fascinating places to visit in Cape Verde. They are filled with captivating natural wonders, hidden secrets, exotic animals, unique local culture and plenty of activities to keep you entertained.

If you’re planning a trip to Sal and wondering what you can do there, read on for everything you need to know about Pedra de Lume Salt Pans and Lake Trip in Sal.

What are Sal’s Pedra de Lume Salt Pans and Lake?

The Pedra de Lume Salt Pans and Lake are located in the Pedratum Northwest region of the island of Sal, in Cape Verde. They comprise of two brackish lagoons that are separated by a thin strip of land. The lagoons are fed by a fresh water stream flowing from the mountain surrounding the lagoons, hot springs and wetland areas. The lagoons are in turn surrounded by white, dusty salt flats which stretch out in all directions.

How is the Lake Formed?

The Pedra de Lume Salt Pans and Lake are made up of two lagoons, the southeastern lagoon being larger than the second one. In the shallowest part of the lake, sea water percolates through the sand, creating a salty environment due to evaporation. As such, the lake is brackish, meaning that it contains some salt as well as fresh water.

This salt was once collected as a valuable resource from the lake’s salt pans by local people. Yet, due to overharvesting, the lake’s salinity has decreased significantly over recent years. Additionally, there is a thin barrier of sand between the two lagoons, which prevents direct exchange of sea water between the two halves of the lake.

The lake is also fed by fresh mountain water streams which flow into it and hot springs. During rain season, water enters the lake from some of the nearby wetland areas too. This combination of sources gives Pedra de Lume Salt Pans and Lake its unique water characteristics.

What Activities Can You Do at The Salt Pans?

Biking

The Pedra de Lume Salt Pans and Lake offer an array of activities for both enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Biking around the lake offers an idyllic and peaceful experience amidst amazing landscapes that can’t be found anywhere else in Cape Verde. Biking lets you traverse between the salt pans with ease and take in some incredible views of the area’s endemic flora and rugged scenery.

Riding a Rickshaw

Another activity for visitors to try at the salt pans is to ride a rickshaw. Rickshaws are smaller than traditional bikes, making maneuvering between tight spaces much easier. Rickshaws also offer a more comfortable ride than bikes, so if you’re looking for a smoother ride around the salt pans then this is definitely an option worth considering.

Bird watching

The Pedra de Lume Salt Pans and Lake are home to an amazing array of bird species including flamingoes, pelicans and many more. Bird watching provides an incredible opportunity for visitors to observe the vibrant bird life at close quarters and enjoy some truly stunning sunsets over the lake.

Hiking

If you’re looking for a more adventurous experience, then consider taking a hike across the miles of white sand dunes that surround the salt pans. This offers an amazing insight into life on the island and a chance to get close up to some truly unique landscapes that cannot be found anywhere else in Cape Verde.

The Cultural Significance of The Salt Pans

Pedra de Lume Salt Pans and Lake have huge cultural significance to locals in Sal. For centuries, locals have been gathering salt from the pans for trade and self-sufficient purposes. Even today, local fishermen can still be seen collecting salt for their own use and for sale to tourists.

The lake is also home to some unique species including turtles, crabs and octopuses which have seen their populations rise due to much improved conservation measures taken in recent years. This means that visitors have the opportunity to observe some amazing wildlife that can only be found here in Sal.

This cultural significance extends beyond wildlife however, as the lakes are also home to several archaeological ruins dating back hundreds of years. These ruins include man-made caves where locals would store their goods, as well as old stone chimneys which were used at one point to boil saltwater in order to extract salt from it.

What Else Do I Need To Know About Pedra de Lume Salt Pans and Lake Trip in Sal?

Pedra de Lume Salt Pans and Lake are located just outside Palmeira and can be reached on foot or by car. The area is easily accessible with numerous car parks nearby and plenty of accommodation options located close by. Entrance to the area is free so you can take your time exploring its wonders without spending a dime!

The lake is also home to several beach cafes which are popular with tourists hotel guests from nearby Palmeira as well as locals looking for refreshments after a long day enjoying what Pedra de Lume has to offer.

If this activity appeals to you, book your trip today with GetYourGuide here:Pedra De Lume Salt Pans And Lake Trip In Sal. This experience will give you the opportunity to discover all that this magical wonderland has to offer without having to worry about transportation or organizing any other parts of your trip. Plus, they provide unbeatable access to authentic local experiences delivered by experienced tour guides – something that you couldn’t get on your own. So why not book your Pedra de Lume Salt Pans and Lake Trip in Sal today and make sure that your holiday here is one unforgettable experience!