Santiago Island: Serra Malagueta & Tarrafal Beach Trek Tour in Santiago Island

Are you fascinated by the sun-kissed glisten of the beaches of Santiago Island? Have you been known to feel a rush of overwhelm at the beauty of mother nature? If the answer to either of these questions is a resounding yes, then we have some excellent news for you! Santiago Island, which belongs to the beautiful Cape Verde archipelago, has incredible attractions and opportunities for you to explore and adventure. And one such experience is the unique Serra Malagueta & Tarrafal Beach Trek Tour!

This highly-rated guided tour is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy the unique indigenous flora and fauna, especially within theTarafal Natural Reserve. It also features white-sand beaches and crystal blue waters. The flora and fauna of Santiago Island make it a paradise for nature lovers. You will get the chance to observe some African species, such as goats, cows, chickens, sheep, and donkeys, from close quarters.

The tour begins at the Serra Malagueta mountain range, an area of serenity. The mountain range has several peaks on its surface and is covered with rock formations that resemble hardened molten lava. Its altitude is approximately 1100 to 1500 meters and its higher points are often overgrown with thick vegetation.

As you walk through the mountains, you will be able to spot several species of finches and woodpeckers, as well as other forest birds. If you’re lucky, you will get to witness birds of prey such as kites, falcons and buzzards! The trek also offers amazing views of the majestic Atlantic Ocean while you traverse the ridge of the mountain range before descending further downhill.

Once you have completed your descent in elevation, you are sure to be mesmerized by Tarrafal Beach. This bay of soft white sand sheltered by superb rocky formations is home to a diverse ecosystem, as it offers habitation through sea turtles, crabs, and even local fishermen passing by. Additionally, if you’re a fan of deep-sea fishing and love to witness aquatic life, Tarrafal Beach is the perfect spot for it!

The tour then moves further away from Tarrafal beach and into the Tarrafal Natural Reserve where a wide array of uninhabited islands are located. Embarking on this venture, you get to explore stunning nature trails in an untouched environment while understanding and respecting its delicate balance. This trek offers an outstanding natural encounter and opportunity to witness the migratory birds who inhabit these islands in winter.

Throughout this sublime tour, your friendly and experienced guide will point out fascinating facts about Santiago Island in addition to the mountain range, fish species, any sightings you might be lucky enough to see along with stories about some of the local customs, people and culture.

If you’re looking for an incredible outdoor adventure filled with beauty and enchantment then look no further than the Serra Malagueta & Tarrafal Beach Trek Tour in Santiago Island. Not only will you get to witness picturesque rock formations in their natural habitat but also spot a variety of birds and wild aquatic life. The tour ends with a journey filled with breathtaking panoramas and plenty of opportunities for souvenir and photo taking!

The best way to experience this tour is to book it directly through GetYourGuide, an online adventure booking portal offering customized tour packages throughout Cape Verde. GetYourGuide operates within the legal framework of Cape Verde and always finds solutions to meet customer needs while respecting local cultures and traditions. By booking your tour with GetYourGuide you are assured of gaining access to quality-checked tours and activities in reputable locations, professional support assistants and well-trained tour guides who will provide superior customer service throughout your journey!

Embark on a memorable journey where you can explore Santiago Island’s fascinating wildlife and breathtaking landscapes like never before with the Serra Malagueta & Tarrafal Beach Trek Tour in Santiago Island! Book your tour today with GetYourGuide for a once-in-a lifetime experience that you won’t forget!

An Insider’s Guide to Santiago Island

Santiago Island is a hidden gem of Cape Verde, known for its ravishing beaches, vibrant music, and captivating history. The stunning beauty of the island is waiting to be discovered. Let me take you on a journey through some of the things that make Santiago Island special and, more importantly, show you the local hot spots you won’t find in a guidebook.

Local Attractions

While the iconic sights of Santiago Island include the Serra Malagueta Natural Park and Tarrafal Beach, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path locations that the locals swear by. For example, venture out to Calheta de Sao Miguel, a charming village that has managed to preserve its traditional Cape Verdean way of life and customs. You can visit the Núcleo Museológico da Ribeira Principal, which showcases the history of this beautiful village, from the architects that built it to the process of harvesting and producing sugar cane.

Dining Spots

Cape Verdean cuisine is both rustic and flavorful, with a blend of African and Portuguese influences. For a traditional meal that locals love, visit Taberna de Natchya, a tiny restaurant in Praia, where you can find “Cachupa” – a slow-cooked stew, made of hominy, beans, and meat. For a casual evening snack, try “Pastel com diabo Dentro” – fried pastry with spicy stuffing – which you can find in most pastry shops in town.

Cultural Experiences

Visitors looking for an immersive cultural experience in Santiago Island should visit the Museu da Tabanca, in Sao Filipe. The museum showcases the traditional music of Santiago Island with its musical instruments and customs, which have been passed down through generations. The museum also features a collection of typical Cape Verdean dishes, traditional clothing, and photographs of local festivals.

Local History

Santiago Island played a vital role in the transatlantic slave trade, as the island had a prime location between Europe, Africa, and the Americas. Visit the Pedra de Lume Salt Flats, which were once the site of the largest base for slave trading in the Cape Verde archipelago. There, you can see the remnants of the slave trade, explore the fascinating history of Cape Verdean explorers, or pay your respects at the nearby burial site for slaves.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For something truly unforgettable, take a trip to Fernão Veloso, a small village nestled in the interior of the island. The village is home to the Monte Tchota eco-lodge, which is run by Cape Verdean women and combines eco-tourism with women-centered entrepreneurship. For adventurous visitors, the trek to the top of a nearby peak offers beautiful scenic views of the entire island.

Santiago Island is a place where you come for the stunning landscapes and warm climate, but you leave having discovered a treasure trove of culture and history. I hope that my insider’s guide to this captivating island has inspired you to experience it for yourself and to appreciate its hidden treasures.