How to Plan Your Turtle Watching and Nesting Evening Tour in Boa Vista Island

Are you planning a trip to Boa Vista Island and looking for a unique and unforgettable experience? Look no further than a turtle watching and nesting evening tour. Boa Vista Island is home to the third largest community of Loggerhead sea turtles in the world and over 90% of these turtles come to its 55 kilometers of white sandy beach to lay their eggs between June and October. The government protects this natural marvel with the support of the locals and various organizations. During this evening turtle watching tour, you’ll have the chance to observe these massive females just a few centimeters away from where they lay their eggs. It’s an adventure that will provide memories to last a lifetime. Here’s how to plan your turtle watching and nesting evening tour in Boa Vista Island:

Step 1: Research Tour Operators

There are several tour operators in Boa Vista Island that offer turtle watching and nesting evening tours. Do your research and compare the tours to choose the one that best suits your needs and budget.

Step 2: Make a Reservation

Once you’ve chosen a tour operator, contact them to make a reservation. It’s important to book your tour early as there are limited tours and people allowed per night per beach to prevent disturbance to the turtle processes. The tour operator should inform you of how many guests will be on the tour.

Step 3: Prepare for Your Tour

It’s important to prepare for your turtle watching and nesting evening tour in Boa Vista Island for the best experience. This may include wearing comfortable shoes, bringing a camera, and dressing appropriately for the weather.

What to Wear

Wear light, comfortable clothing that you won’t mind getting sandy as you’ll be walking along the beach. Dress appropriately for the weather, as it can get chilly in the evening.

What to Bring

Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the amazing scenery and memories. It’s also a good idea to bring insect repellent and a flashlight.

Step 4: Enjoy Your Tour

A tour guide will lead you down the beach in the evening when the big females come to lay their eggs inside the special nests they make themselves. You’ll have the chance to observe them and the tour guide will inform you regarding how the turtles process is working. The tour will last around three hours and will be an experience you’ll never forget.

Step 5: Book Your Turtle Watching and Nesting Evening Tour

Ready to book your turtle watching and nesting evening tour? Go to book the tour here to make a reservation today.

Book Your Tour Now

If you’re visiting Boa Vista Island, be sure to plan a turtle watching and nesting evening tour for an unforgettable experience. Remember to prepare for your tour, including researching tour operators, making a reservation, and packing appropriately. With proper preparation, you’re sure to have a memorable tour observing Loggerhead sea turtles.

FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Boa Vista Island

1. Where is Boa Vista Island?

Boa Vista Island is located at the easternmost point of the Cape Verde archipelago, off the coast of Senegal in West Africa. It is the third-largest island in Cape Verde, covering an area of approximately 620 square kilometers.

2. What is the best time to visit Boa Vista Island?

The best time to visit Boa Vista Island is from December to June, during the dry season. During this time, the weather is sunny and warm, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C. July and August can be hot and humid, while September to November is the rainy season.

3. What are some of the top things to do in Boa Vista Island?

– Relax on the pristine beaches, such as Santa Monica Beach and Praia de Chaves – Go on a dune buggy tour of the island – Watch the sea turtles nesting and hatching on the beaches – Explore the Viana Desert – Visit the local villages and learn about the culture and traditions of the Cape Verdean people

4. What is the Viana Desert?

The Viana Desert is a unique geological formation located in the northeastern part of Boa Vista Island. It is a vast area of sand dunes that cover approximately 20% of the island’s surface. It is a popular tourist destination and offers stunning views of the island’s landscape.

5. Is Boa Vista Island safe for tourists?

Yes, Boa Vista Island is generally considered safe for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is always advisable to take normal safety precautions such as being aware of your surroundings and not carrying large amounts of cash with you.

6. What are the transportation options on the island?

The main modes of transportation on Boa Vista Island are taxis and minibusses. Rental cars and dune buggies are also available, but it is important to note that the roads on the island can be quite rough and may require a four-wheel-drive vehicle.

7. What is the local currency, and can I use credit cards on the island?

The local currency on Boa Vista Island is the Cape Verdean escudo (CVE). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and restaurants, but it is always advisable to carry some cash with you.

8. What is the local cuisine like on the island?

The local cuisine on Boa Vista Island is a mix of Portuguese and African influences, with an emphasis on seafood. Some popular dishes include Cachupa, a stew made with beans and meat or fish, and Pastel com Cerveja, a pastry filled with meat, vegetables or cheese.

9. What languages are spoken on the island?

The official language of Cape Verde is Portuguese, but the majority of the population on Boa Vista Island speaks Crioulo, a Creole language that is a mix of Portuguese and West African languages. English is also widely spoken in tourist areas.

10. What is the culture like on the island?

The culture on Boa Vista Island is a rich blend of African, European and Brazilian influences. The Cape Verdean people are known for their hospitality and welcoming nature, and visitors to the island can expect to be greeted warmly by the locals. The island has a vibrant music scene, and traditional dances such as the Morna and Funana are an important part of the culture.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Boa Vista Island

Introduction

Boa Vista Island is known as the “Island of Dunes” and is one of the 10 volcanic islands in Cape Verde. It is located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean and is a popular tourist destination. Boa Vista is famous for its sandy beaches, warm waters, and year-round sun, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing vacation. In this guide, we will explore the top things to do in Boa Vista Island.

1. Relax on the Beaches

Boa Vista Island has several beaches, and all of them are stunning. One of the best beaches to visit is Praia de Chaves. This beach is located on the west coast of the island and has calm waters, white sand, and plenty of sunshine. It is the perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing or reading a book. Another popular beach is Praia de Santa Monica, which is situated in the east coast of Boa Vista Island. The beach stretches for miles and is less crowded than Praia de Chaves. The sea here can be a bit rougher, but it’s perfect for water sports, such as surfing or windsurfing.

2. Visit the Sal Rei Village

Sal Rei is the largest town on Boa Vista Island, and visiting it is a must for tourists. The town has a laid-back atmosphere, and its small size makes it easy to explore on foot. The highlight of the town is the colorful houses and the local markets where you can buy souvenirs from Cape Verde.

3. Experience Turtle Watching

Boa Vista Island is one of the few places in the world where you can witness sea turtles nesting. Loggerhead and hawksbill turtles come to the beaches of Boa Vista to lay their eggs between June and September. Night tours are available, and you can observe them without disturbing them.

4. Try the Local Cuisine

Cape Verde offers a unique blend of African, Portuguese and Brazilian cuisines, and Boa Vista Island offers some of the traditional dishes. The island’s seafood is a must-try, and you can find it at several restaurants in Sal Rei. The stew of tuna and the cachupa (a hearty stew made with beans, corn, and meat) are some of the most popular dishes.

5. Take a Quad Bike Tour

Exploring Boa Vista Island on a quad bike is an adventurous way to see the island’s natural beauty. You can rent a quad bike and ride through the sand dunes or along the coastline. This is an ideal activity for those who like to explore the outdoors and want a break from the beaches.

6. Visit the Varandinha Village

Varandinha is a small fishing village located in the north of Boa Vista Island. The village has a beautiful beach, which is less crowded than other beaches on the island. You can enjoy a walk along the beach, take a dip in the clear waters, or try some of the local dishes at one of the beachside restaurants.

7. Take a Boat Tour

Boa Vista Island has fantastic marine life, and taking a boat tour is an excellent way to see it. You can explore the surrounding waters and spot dolphins, sea turtles or even whales if you are lucky. Some tours even stop at secluded bays, allowing you to go snorkeling or swimming.

8. Learn about the Local Culture

Cape Verde has a unique culture, and you can learn about it by visiting the local museums on Boa Vista Island. The Municipal Museum is located in Sal Rei and is the best place to start. You can see artifacts and learn about the history of the island.

Book Your Tour Now

Boa Vista Island offers an exciting mix of activities for tourists. Whether you want to relax on the beaches, explore the island’s natural beauty, experience the local culture or try the local cuisine, there is something for everyone. Use this guide to help you plan your trip to Boa Vista Island, and you will have a memorable vacation in this island paradise.