What to do on Sal Island?

Sal Island

Sal Island Tranquility and Fun

The characteristics of Sal Island make it the most appreciated tourist destination in Cape VerdeIt is easy to understand why: Beautiful beaches with long stretches of sand, fantastic climate, clean water, little confusion, good supply of hotels and restaurants, friendly people: it is therefore a paradise for those who want to relax.

Throughout the island it is possible to feel the sea breeze, the affection and hospitality of the people who live there, the magic of smells, sounds and flavors that the African continent offers in a unique way.
Beautiful landscapes and special places, such as Buracona or Salinas, complement the main offer in terms of tourism. And make your holiday on Sal Island a unique experience.

How to get to Sal Island?

Given its importance, in terms of tourism, there are several air routes that make the connection between the international airport that this island has. Thus, there are direct flights from Europe, the United States, Brazil, which facilitates access to this island from anywhere in the world.

How to obtain your visa for Cape Verde?

To visit Cape Verde (which includes the island of Sal), in most cases, a visa is required. In some cases, there may be visa waiver; in others the obligation to obtain them in the country of origin; and in others the possibility of requesting it upon arrival. It is recommended that you check with your consular office months before you travel. You can get some preliminary information about visas for Cape Verde here.

How to get around Sal Island?

It is possible to rent a car, pickup, or a pickup with a driver, who knows the island and can take you directly to the best places. For short distances there are taxis that can take you where you want to go. There are also 9-seat vans, commonly called hiaces, which are community cabs.

What money do I need in Sal Island?

Given its tourist aspect, some merchants on the island may accept Euros (EUR) or Dollars (USD). But, with the exchange rate, you will always pay a little more for the products. If you want to know the island always have some local currency.

What to take to Sal Island?

• Sunblock
• Beachwear
• Warm-weather clothing – but bring some more sweaters for the evenings and colder days.
• Comfortable shoes
• Camera
• Smartphone with GPS Map
• Cape Verdean Escudos
• Water to stay hydrated in the heat

On the island of Sal, there is a tendency to spend all the time in the hotel, due to the complete offer they have. However, visiting local restaurants on the island of Sal will allow you to discover new flavors and get a closer look at the culture of a people who know how to welcome you so well.

What to visit on Sal Island?

The village of Santa Maria and its pier

The capital of the island of sal is a peaceful place, full of morabeza and friendly people. Here, there are several hotels, as well as restaurants
On the pier of Santa Maria it is possible to observe the fishermen returning from their daily activities, in their traditional boats. Young people take the opportunity to have fun jumping into the water while some tourists watch them. Young people take the opportunity to have fun jumping into the water while some tourists watch them.

Buracona

The heat and dust that you feel on the way to Buracona does not allow you to predict what you will find when you reach your destination. After a few km where you seem to be lost in the desert, except for the paths that take you there, you arrive at a set of beautiful natural pools carved by the force of the sea that found its way through the rocks. Buracona and its Blue Eye Buracona and its Blue Eye is one of the most famous sights on the island of Sal.

O Olho d’Água

The Eye of Water Olho d’Água is both simple and magical. At a certain time of day, between 11:00 and 12:00, the position of the sun causes it to fall directly on the water in one of the caves located in Buracona. The way in which this phenomenon happens, turns the area where the sun hits it into a vivid blue, contrasting with the dark blue of the rest of the water, and assuming a shape that looks like an eye: hence the name, Olho d’Agua .

The way in which this phenomenon happens, turns the area where the sun hits it into a vivid blue, contrasting with the dark blue of the rest of the water, and assuming a shape that looks like an eye: hence the name, Olho d’Agua .

As Salinas de Pedra Lumeor the Salt Flats of Pedra Lume, which was once one of the most important spots in Cape Verde at the time of the Salt Route, looks like it came out of one of the movies that talks about abandoned cities. However, this place has an attraction that makes it special: its salt flats.
Due to the high presence of Sal, which makes the water muddy, it is possible to float in the water without making any effort, simply lying on your back, giving a different sensation, as if you were floating.

Visit the Botanical Garden and Zoo

In an arid place, with practically no rain, the most unlikely thing to find is a botanical garden with a Mini Zoo.
In an arid place, with practically no rain, the most unlikely thing to find is a botanical garden with a Mini Zoo. The zoo mainly has local animals.
A space that aims at ecology, sustainability and adding something different to the island.

Monte Leão

On a decidedly flat island, Monte Leão contrasts with the rest of the landscape and is a place where you can have an excellent view over part of Sal Island. However, its descent is not so easy and requires the use of suitable footwear, in addition to the time it takes to walk the path. However, an important aspect when visiting Sal Island.

Terra Boa

The winding paths and the arid appearance of the place are reminiscent of a desert. But why do so many tourists talk about a place that has almost “nothing”? Well, it is this desert that allows mirages to exist and that make the place so interesting. If you want to see mirages when visiting Sal Island, Terra Boa is the ideal place.

Yacht Tours

If you are looking for a more luxurious experience, you can always take a yacht trip along the Cape Verdean coast, feeling the breeze and sea air, while relaxing and enjoying the ride.

Quad or Buggy Tours

Do you want to know the island from coast to coast, and in a different way? Rent a buggy or a quad and travel along the road and dirt paths that the island has to offer. Enjoy this adventure and see the mirages along the way.

Wildlife on Sal Island

Many people visit Sal Island for the opportunity to observe animals in their natural habitat, such as turtles or whales.

Turtle watching

How many times have you had the opportunity to observe turtles live? On the island of Sal, there is a project that allows you to have the experience of watching turtles lay eggs and, even so, contribute to their sustainability.
The months when you can observe this phenomenon are between June and September, and it can also be observed on other islands, such as Boa Vista or May, for example – the latter being the most advisable month for this. The excursion is during the night, on a walk of several hours, which does not guarantee observation. But when the adventure ends well, it’s a great thing.
Important rules: respect for turtles and their nature.

Shark Bay – See sharks

A Shark Bay is a place on Sal Island where you can often see sharks. The stone path, in the water, to the place where you can see the lemon shark, can hurt your feet. There are shoes, which can be rented, in order to protect them.
Although they are a species that is not normally dangerous to humans, it is necessary to be careful. The ideal is to talk to people in the area, such as guides, who are used to dealing with them on a daily basis.

Cultural Events on Sal Island

Cape Verde is a country full of artistic and musical tradition. Therefore, if you have the opportunity, you should take the opportunity to learn a little more about its culture. Despite having a more limited cultural offer than the island of Santiago, or São Vicente, the island of Sal is a point of contact for tourists with this culture.

Santa Maria Music Festival

The Santa Maria music festival is probably the best known cultural event on the island of Sal. In its more than 20 years of existence, great names of national and international music, of different musical styles, have already passed through its stages. Usually held on a weekend in mid-September, it’s something you can enjoy if you’re on the island at that time.

Beaches on Sal Island

When one talks about the Island of Sal, it is impossible not to mention its wonderful beaches, which can only be compared to those of the Island of Boa Vista. Known for its extensive beach, fine white sand, these are the delight of sun and sea lovers. Here are some of the main beaches on Sal Island.

Santa Maria Beach

When we think of paradise, we think of white sand beaches as far as the eye can see, with a fantastic climate and a translucent sea. That’s what you can find on praia de Santa Maria. That’s what you can find on Santa Maria beach. Here, you can also enjoy water sports such as snorkeling, a variety of diving. Walking along the beach, which is 8 km long, feeling the calm and purity of the surroundings, is something not to be missed.

Ponta Sino

Ponta Sino has several characteristics: beauty, extensive sand, wind, a sense of calm. Add to this beautiful colors in the air, from the parachutes of kitesurfing practitioners, who have this beach as one of the chosen ones for practicing the sport.

Calheta Funda

Calheta Funda A calm and beautiful beach, where the blue and green of the sea, the noise of the waves and the birds come together in perfect harmony creating the perfect tranquility between man and nature. The perfect spot to enjoy a fantastic sunset.

Praia Manuel António de Sousa

Praia Manuel António de Sousa is smaller, which gives it a more intimate feel. There is the possibility of renting a sun lounger, and there is a mini gym where you can do some exercise. Although there are more stones in the sea than on other beaches, Manuel António de Sousa is still a fantastic place. Visiting.

Eat, Sleep and Socialize

Where to eat?

Considering that it is a very tourist-oriented area, there is no shortage of varied restaurant options on Sal Island. Usually, hotels themselves have a varied offer of food for their guests.
However, if you have the opportunity, you should also try restaurants with local flavor options.

Where to sleep?

The offer of hotels on the island of Sal is varied, and for different types of wallets. It is both possible to find rooms at more attractive prices, as well as large hotels, where the amount to be paid will be higher. Most people choose a Hotel in Santa Maria, and visit the rest of the island from there.

Where to live together?

Although most hotels have an offer within the hotel itself, as far as socializing is concerned, there are several beach bars or cafes, where you can spend quality time with your friends, relaxing and chatting.