How to Plan Your Full-Day Trip Around Sal Island with Lunch and Snorkel

Sal Island, one of the ten volcanic islands in the Cape Verde archipelago, is famous for its sparkling turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and lively atmosphere. A full-day trip around the island with lunch and snorkeling at Murdeira Bay is a perfect way to explore the island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. In this guide, we’ll take you through the itinerary of the trip, the highlights you’ll see, what to bring, and how to book the tour.

Experience

The tour starts with a hotel pickup at 9:15 AM and ends with a drop-off at around 6:00 PM. The itinerary includes several stops at the island’s top attractions, such as Ponta Preta Monte Leão, Blue Eye, Pedra de Lume, and Baia de Parda. Along the way, you’ll learn about the Cape Verdean culture, cuisine, and history from a knowledgeable local guide. The tour also includes lunch and snorkeling at Murdeira Bay, where you can spot colorful fish and coral reefs.

Highlights

Here are some of the highlights you’ll see during the tour:

Ponta Preta Monte Leão

Ponta Preta, also known as Black Edge, is a stunning beach located at the south of the island. The contrast between the white sand dunes and the dark volcanic rocks creates a dramatic scenery that attracts surfers and windsurfers from around the world. Monte Leão, meaning Lion Mountain, is a nearby hill named after its lion-like shape.

Blue Eye

The Blue Eye, or Olho Azul in Portuguese, is a natural pool with crystal-clear water that looks like an eye. The pool is surrounded by black volcanic rocks, and the sunlight reflects on the water, creating a mesmerizing shade of blue.

Pedra de Lume

Pedra de Lume is a former salt mine located in the crater of an extinct volcano. The salt pans were abandoned in the 1980s but have recently been revived for tourism. You can bathe in the therapeutic waters of the salt pans and float effortlessly due to the high salt content.

Baia de Parda

Baia de Parda, or Shark Bay, is a bay on the north of the island where you can spot lemon sharks swimming near the shore. Don’t worry, though, the sharks are harmless and used to human presence.

Murdeira Bay

Murdeira Bay is a sheltered cove on the east coast of the island with crystal-clear water and a rich marine life. The tour includes a snorkeling session where you can see colorful fish, sea urchins, and even octopus. The bay is also a great place for a relaxing swim and sunbathing.

Morabeza

Morabeza is a Cape Verdean word that means hospitality, friendliness, and kindness towards guests. During the tour, you’ll experience the morabeza of the locals and learn about their way of life.

Itinerary

Here’s the full itinerary of the tour:

• 9:15 AM – Hotel pickup
• 10:00 AM – Ponta Preta Monte Leão
• 11:00 AM – Blue Eye
• 12:00 PM – Pedra de Lume
• 1:00 PM – Lunch
• 2:30 PM – Baia de Parda
• 3:30 PM – Murdeira Bay
• 5:00 PM – Return to hotel

What to Bring

Here are some items you should bring on the tour:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Swimsuit
• Sunscreen
• Towel
• Water bottle
• Cash or credit card for souvenirs and tips

How to Book

To book the tour, visit this link and follow the instructions. You can choose the date, number of participants, and hotel pickup location during the booking process. The tour costs around EUR 60 per person and includes lunch, snacks, drinks, and snorkeling gear. Make sure to book in advance as the tour is popular and may sell out quickly.

Book Your Tour Now

A full-day trip around Sal Island with lunch and snorkeling is a fantastic way to discover the island’s beauty and culture. From the white-sand beaches of Ponta Preta to the lemon sharks of Baia de Parda, you’ll experience the best of Sal with a knowledgeable local guide. Make sure to bring comfortable shoes, swimsuits, and sunscreen, and book in advance to secure your spot. Don’t forget to practice morabeza and enjoy every moment of your tour around Sal.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sal

1. Where is Sal located?

Sal is an island located in the Atlantic Ocean, just off the coast of West Africa. It is part of Cape Verde, a country made up of a group of volcanic islands.

2. What is the climate like in Sal?

The climate in Sal is tropical, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C throughout the year. The island is known for its sunny weather, with little rainfall. However, the island can be quite windy, especially during the winter months.

3. How do I get to Sal?

You can get to Sal by flying into the Amílcar Cabral International Airport, which is located on the island. Direct flights are available from several European cities, including Lisbon, Paris, and Amsterdam.

4. What are the best things to do in Sal?

Sal is known for its beautiful beaches, such as Santa Maria Beach and Kite Beach. You can also go snorkeling or diving to explore the island’s underwater world. If you are interested in history and culture, visit the Espargos town, which is the main town on the island. Santa Maria and Espargos both have active nightlife scenes.

5. Is it safe to travel to Sal?

Yes, Sal is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel, it is important to take basic safety precautions, such as avoiding unlit areas at night and being aware of your surroundings.

6. Where are the best places to stay in Sal?

There are many options for accommodation in Sal, ranging from budget hostels to luxury resorts. Some of the most popular areas to stay include Santa Maria, which is close to the beaches and nightlife, and Espargos, which is the island’s main town. Many resorts also offer all-inclusive packages.

7. What is the local currency in Sal?

The official currency in Cape Verde is the Cape Verdean escudo (CVE). However, many businesses in Sal also accept euros and US dollars. It is a good idea to bring some euros or dollars with you for convenience, but be aware that you may get a better exchange rate if you change your money locally.

8. What is the local language in Sal?

The official language in Cape Verde is Portuguese. However, many people in Sal also speak Creole, a language that developed from a mix of Portuguese and African languages. English is also widely spoken in the tourism industry.

9. What is the food like in Sal?

The cuisine in Sal is a mix of African, Portuguese, and Brazilian influences. Seafood is a popular choice, especially tuna and lobster. You can also find many meat dishes, such as grilled chicken or beef. Vegetarians and vegans may have limited options in some restaurants, but there are some places that offer vegetarian and vegan dishes.

10. When is the best time to visit Sal?

The best time to visit Sal is from November to June, when the weather is warm and dry. July through October is the rainy season, and some businesses may close during this time. However, if you are a windsurfer or kitesurfer, you may prefer to visit during the windier months of July and August.

11. Can I use my credit card in Sal?

Most businesses in Sal accept credit cards, especially Visa and Mastercard. However, some smaller shops and restaurants may only accept cash, so it is a good idea to carry some local currency with you.

12. Do I need a visa to visit Sal?

Most visitors to Cape Verde, including Sal, do not need a visa for stays of up to 30 days. However, it is always a good idea to check the latest visa requirements before you travel.

Book Your Tour Now

Sal is a beautiful destination with a lot to offer visitors, from its sunny beaches to its rich history and culture. By following basic safety guidelines and being aware of local customs, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to this amazing island.

How To Spend Your Time As A Tourist In Sal

Sal is considered the most popular tourist destination in Cape Verde. With beautiful beaches, amazing landscapes, and a rich cultural heritage, Sal is a haven of tourist attractions. While on the island, you can choose various adventures depending on your interests, from water sports to exploring cultural sites. To help you make the most out of your trip to Sal, we have compiled a detailed guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Sal.

1. Hit The Beaches

Sal is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. If you love relaxing and sunbathing, then the beaches of Sal should be your first choice. Some of the famous beaches you can visit include Santa Maria Beach, Kite Beach, and Shark Bay. Santa Maria Beach, situated in the south of Sal, is among the top beaches on the island, and for a good reason. Its crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches offer the perfect spot for sunbathing and swimming. Kite Beach is popular among those who love water sports such as kite surfing and windsurfing. Shark Bay is ideal for snorkeling, and you can rent snorkeling equipment nearby.

2. Explore The Volcanic Landscapes

Sal boasts of an interesting and spectacular volcanic landscape. The Pedra De Lume saline of Sal is one of the best locations to explore the unique landscapes. Walking in the uneven terrains, you can witness the striking contrast of the dunes and the salty water of the crater. Another volcanic experience you can have on the island is visiting the Buracona Blue Eye, a natural pool that recreates an optical illusion of a blue eye when viewed from certain angles.

3. Take Part in Water Sports

Sal’s beaches and crystal clear waters have made them a haven for water sports. Some of the water sports you can try include kiteboarding, windsurfing, and diving. Kite Beach is the hub for kitesurfing, while windsurfing enthusiasts visit Sante Maria Beach for the best winds to surf. The warm waters of Sal are perfect for diving or snorkeling, with an abundant underwater world to explore.

4. Discover The Salt Mines

Mining of salt has been a significant activity on Sal Island. The Pedra De Lume salt mines or Salt Crater, built in 1854, was once the largest salt mines in Cape Verde. The mines have long stopped operating, but visitors can still explore the old and abandoned structures and learn about the history of salt mining on the island.

5. Visit The Cultural Sites

Sal Island has a rich cultural heritage that dates back to the island’s colonization. Visitors can explore various cultural sites highlighting these heritages. You can visit Espargos, the island’s commercial hub and the capital of Sal, and learn about its culture and history in the municipal square. Another cultural site tourists can visit is the Palmeira village, known for its colorful houses and rugged landscapes.

6. Go On An Island Tour

An exciting way to explore Sal is to go on an island tour. You get to see the various landscapes and famous attractions of the island in a single tour. Some of the attractions you can include in your tour are Buracona, Santa Maria Beach, and Palmeira. You can also hire a guide to show you around and provide you with details about Sal Island’s history and culture.

7. Experience The Nightlife

Sal Island has a bustling and energetic nightlife. The area of Santa Maria is particularly famous for its bars, clubs, and restaurants. The local cuisine is an experience in itself, and you can also join in the traditional music and dance at locations like the Funana House.

Book Your Tour Now

Sal Island is an ideal destination whether you’re a sun-seeker or an adventure lover. With its stunning beaches, intriguing landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, Sal Island has something for everyone. We hope our detailed guide has provided you with enough knowledge to plan an unforgettable trip to Sal.