Is prior horseback riding experience required?

No, this ride is suitable for beginners and riders of all levels.

What is the minimum and maximum age for riders?

Children as young as 3 years old can participate; there is no maximum age, but riders must be able to handle a horse safely.

Are transfers included to and from my accommodation?

Yes, pickup from your hotel or lodging in Santa Maria is included in the tour.

Are the horses suitable for children?

Yes, the horses are well-trained and safe for young riders with proper guidance.

Is the ride physically demanding?

It’s an easy ride over flat terrain suitable for those in basic physical health.

Can the tour accommodate people over 90 kg?

No, the maximum weight limit for riders is 90 kg to ensure safety and horse welfare.

Explore Cabo Verde's Salt Flats on a Stunning Horseback Ride in Salinas

Cabo Verde’s island of Sal offers more than sun-soaked beaches and turquoise waters; it invites you to experience its natural heritage on horseback through the vast salt flats of Santa Maria. The Passeio a Cavalo • Salinas is a one-hour horseback ride perfect for travelers of nearly any age — kids as young as three can join — which combines easy, accessible outdoor adventure with a journey into the island’s unique industrial past.

The salt flats, or salinas, are the defining feature of this landscape. Spanning wide, shimmering expanses of crystallized salt, they reflect the sky’s every hue, creating an otherworldly backdrop that’s both serene and surreal. These flats have been a source of livelihood for Cape Verdeans for generations. Guided by expert equestrian hosts fluent in Portuguese and English, visitors not only traverse this stark yet beautiful environment but also immerse themselves in the history of salt production—a cornerstone of Sal’s economy and culture.

This experience stands out because it offers gentle terrain on well-trained horses, making it suitable for beginners and families. The soft, flat expanses ensure steady footing, and the ride’s pace invites riders to soak in the panoramic views and visceral connection to the land. The small group size, capped at eight people, ensures personalized attention from guides and a quieter ambience, allowing guests to appreciate the natural soundscape and expansive skies far from crowds.

The ride starts from your hotel or accommodation, with convenient transfers included, making it seamless for visitors to integrate this trip into their Sal itinerary. Comfortable clothing is recommended, and riders must comply with safety guidelines, including a maximum weight of 90 kg and minimum age requirements. This conscientious approach preserves the wellbeing of both riders and horses while respecting local regulations.

Santa Maria is the closest town and a comfortable base for your trip. It offers charming hotels and vibrant local life, blending beach relaxation with access to cultural sites. More than a scenic adventure, this horseback tour provides a meaningful glimpse into a vital, lesser-known chapter of Cabo Verde’s heritage.

For travelers seeking a low-impact, engaging outdoor experience paired with cultural education, Passeio a Cavalo • Salinas is a standout. The ride connects you to a defining natural and economic landscape on Sal Island while offering calm, accessible adventure in a captivating setting.