Excursions on Sal, Cape Verde
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The best excursions on Sal, Cape Verde (Cabo Verde) are the salt crater of Pedra de Lume, the natural pools of Buracona with the Blue Eye, the lemon sharks of Shark Bay and a full island tour by quad or 4x4. Sal is small: from Santa Maria you reach every sight within an hour. Here is what to do and how.
Pedra de Lume salt crater
In the east of the island lies an old volcanic crater where salt was extracted for centuries. Today you float in the salt pools as in the Dead Sea. Bring water shoes and fresh water to rinse off; there is an entrance fee.
Buracona and the Blue Eye
On the north west coast near Palmeira the sea washes into natural pools in the black lava. Next to them is a cave, the Blue Eye (Olho Azul): around midday, when the sun shines straight in, the water glows bright blue. Swim only in the pools when the sea is calm.
Shark Bay
On the east coast you wade through knee deep water among young lemon sharks. Go with water shoes, keep calm and do not touch or feed the animals. Morning is usually calmer.
Terra Boa and Monte Curral
On the flat desert of Terra Boa a mirage appears on hot days. Near Espargos, Monte Curral offers a view over the whole island.
Island tour, boats and Boa Vista
- Island tour: by quad, buggy or 4x4 you see Santa Maria, Espargos, Palmeira, Buracona, Pedra de Lume and Shark Bay in one day.
- Boat trips: catamaran trips, sport fishing and snorkelling trips leave from Santa Maria.
- Boa Vista: from the harbour of Palmeira a ferry sails to Sal Rei on Boa Vista; there are also short flights.
- Turtles: in summer sea turtles nest on the beaches of Sal; only go with an official guide.
Back to things to do on Sal or see the best beaches on Sal. Need help planning? Ask Huefter on WhatsApp: +238 597 56 78.