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Guided Full-Day Santiago Island Tour

Day trips

  • 8 hours
  • Free cancellation up to 24h before
  • 3 languages
  • Instant confirmation

Highlights

Join us for an unforgettable journey through Santiago, where you’ll explore the island’s vibrant culture and rich history. Start by traversing the lush interior, visiting the Eco Center to meet local animals and unique plant species. Experience the lively Assomada marketplace and pass through the stunning Serra Malagueta National Park. Unwind on the beautiful Tarrafal Beach, soaking up the sun and sea, and savor a delicious lunch of traditional Cape Verdean cuisine. You’ll have the opportunity to travel from south to north, crossing the island’s interior and then returning along its breathtaking coastline.This is a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation, creating memories that will last a lifetime!

Inclusions

What's included

  • Lunch

What's not

  • Entrace fee at Tarrafal Concentration Camp
  • Entrance fee at Botanical Garden

Itinerary

  1. Travelers will have the chance to explore the botanical garden, featuring a variety of unique plant species native to the Cabo Verde Islands. Visitors will also have the opportunity to admire the majestic Pico de Antonia, the tallest mountain on the island, situated in the picturesque city of São Lourenço dos Órgãos. This stunning natural landmark offers breathtaking views and a chance to connect with the island’s rich landscape.

    45 min

  2. Assomada, the second-largest city on Santiago, plays a vital commercial role and offers a delightful blend of urban life and scenic countryside. Surrounded by picturesque mountains and fertile farmland, it is home to a renowned marketplace where agricultural products from across the island converge. Our guide will take you on a tour of this vibrant market, showcasing the rich offerings of the region.

    30 min

  3. Serra Malagueta, a protected park nestled between three municipalities, is the highest point in the northern region of the island. Here, you can breathe in the fresh air, take in breathtaking views, and observe a variety of bird species. It’s a perfect escape into nature, where tranquility and stunning landscapes await!

    Passes by

  4. Here, visitors will enjoy a delightful lunch at the charming and traditional Búzio restaurant. The menu features typical Cape Verdean dishes, with options of meat or fish, accompanied by seasonal fruits for dessert. To complement the meal, coffee and water will also be provided, offering a true taste of the local culture.

    1.5 h

  5. At the Concentration Camp in Tarrafal, visitors can step inside the cells that once held political opponents of Portugal's right-wing authoritarian regime. This historic site serves as a poignant reminder of the past, highlighting the harsh realities and torture methods employed during that dark period. Exploring these cells allows visitors to reflect on the struggles for freedom and justice that shaped the nation’s history.

    45 min

  6. Located in the northern part of Santiago Island, Tarrafal is a charming fishing town featuring a small city center and a notable church. Nestled by the picturesque Baía de Tarrafal and at the foot of Monte Graciosa, this area boasts stunning natural beauty. Visitors will have free time to relax on Tarrafal Beach, known for its soft white sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is framed by lush hills and offers a tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to unwind. In addition to soaking up the sun, guests can enjoy various water activities, or simply stroll along the shore and take in the breathtaking views. Tarrafal’s vibrant local culture and inviting community add to the overall experience, making it a must-visit destination on the island.

    1 h

  7. Calheta de São Miguel in Santiago, Cabo Verde, offers visitors a captivating oasis with its lush tropical atmosphere along the coast. This picturesque area is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life,with the surrounding hills providing panoramic views of the coastline.

    Passes by

  8. Located in the eastern part of Santiago Island, Pedra Badejo is a charming fishing town surrounded by small shops and beautiful black sand beaches. Here, visitors can see fields of bananas and coconuts, immersing themselves in the local agricultural landscape. The vibrant community and stunning coastal views make it a perfect spot to experience the island’s culture and natural beauty.

    Passes by

  9. Located on the southeastern coast of Santiago Island, Santa Cruz, is a charming coastal town known for its stunning beaches and vibrant community. The area features a mix of traditional architecture and modern developments, creating a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. The town boasts beautiful sandy shores, as well as picturesque views of the surrounding landscape. Its proximity to natural attractions, such as nearby hills and lush vegetation, makes it an ideal destination for those looking to see both the coastline and the interior of Santiago.

    Passes by

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, for a full refund.

Know before you go

Pickup
Pickup is included for everyone.
Ticket type
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group size
Up to 27 travellers
Operated by
Praiatur Lda
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

How it compares in Praia

  • Its from-price is 11% above the median of the 15 day trips we list in Praia.
  • It is longer than most of them.
  • The operator lists free cancellation on it.

About Praia

Praia is the capital of Cape Verde, a city on Santiago island's south coast built around a colonial plateau, with busy markets and strong musical roots.

Praia is the capital of Cape Verde, a country of volcanic islands off West Africa, and lies on the south coast of Santiago, the largest island. The old city sits on the Plateau, a flat-topped headland with pastel colonial buildings, a central square with a church, and the presidential palace. Below it, the market sells fish, fruit, spices and cloth, and beaches stretch along the bay.

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