Top 10 excursions and tours

Updated on Nov 29, 2023 by Stacey Parsons

Here we talk about some of our favourite excursions that you can try when on holiday in Cape Verde.

The ideal destination for beach lovers, when embarking on a holiday to Cape Verde you’re safe in the knowledge that sun, sea and sand will be waiting for you – in abundance. However, there’s plenty more you could be doing than simply lying on the beach topping up your tan, whether you like to be active on holiday or just do something a little out of the ordinary.

That’s why we’ve compiled a list of our favourite excursions and tours that you can find on some of the islands, in the hope that we’ll inspire you to explore a bit more when you’re enjoying a well-deserved holiday to Cape Verde…

1. Full or half day island tour: Sal

If you’re looking for some time away from your hotel to explore the local area, this tour ticks all the boxes. You’ll get to visit a number of places including Espargos – Sal’s capital, along with the Salinas salt mines, where you can take a dip in the salt water. You’ll also learn lots about Sal’s history during this tour. Find out more.

2. Water sports: Sal

With options to take part in kite surfing, snorkelling, wakeboarding, jet skiing, diving and windsurfing (among others), Sal’s the place to be if you’re a water sport enthusiast, or just fancy trying your hand at something new. Prices vary, but just head on down to the beach at Santa Maria to get started.

3. Turtle watching: Boa Vista

Between the months of July and September, you can spend an evening watching loggerhead turtles lay their eggs on Ervatão beach, which is the third most important nesting site in the world for these animals.

4. Fishing: Sal, Boa Vista

Different types of fishing are available on the two islands depending on what you’re interested in, but you can try everything from beach fishing and surf casting to rock fishing and deep sea fishing. Tailored quotes are available in resort.

5. Hiking: Santiago

Available on the island of Santiago, three different hiking options are available, depending on where you’d like to explore during your trek. With options to discover everything from refreshing waterfalls, natural phenomena and spectacular views of the surrounding landscape, you will get the opportunity to appreciate many different aspects of the island. Find out more about the different hiking trails.

6. Quad biking: Boa Vista and Sal

A great activity for adrenaline seekers, this adult-only excursion lasts for two or four hours, during which time you’ll drive a quad bike across the endless sand dunes of Boa Vista. It’s time to get out and explore some of the 55km of glorious coastline that this paradisiacal island has to offer (drivers will be required to produce a valid driver’s licence). Quad biking tours are also available on the island of Sal, you can find out more on our excursions and tours page.

7. Whale watching: Boa Vista

Hop on board a catamaran and head on out to sea to spot some of the most magnificent mammals on this earth. Whale watching runs from late February to May, and excursions last for four hours.

8. Chã das Caldeiras - The Volcano: Fogo

Discover Fogo’s magnificent volcano and local wine factory on this full-day tour. After breakfast in São Filipe, you’ll head off for the day where you will explore local settlements, the national park and the volcano crater. On the way back, you’ll embark on a guided tour of a local wine factory before heading back to your hotel. Breakfast and lunch is included.

9. Cape Verdean Night: Boa Vista

For an evening filled with tasty, traditional food along with some great, local live music, this excursion ticks all the boxes. Enjoy cachupa (a hearty local meal), along with meat or grilled fish, dessert and a drink. Transfers during the evening are included in the price.

10. Mindelo by Night: São Vicente

Enjoy live music and tasty food at a local restaurant, along with a tour of this wonderfully vibrant city. This excursion will take you to all the best bits of Mindelo.