Spend a day crossing Boa Vista’s best landscapes: shifting dunes at Morro de Areia, the limestone drama of Varandinha Cave, a swim at Santa Mónica, and the iconic Cabo de Santa Maria shipwreck. Practical and photo-ready, this tour suits most fitness levels.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out of the minivan onto hot sand and a wind that seems to rearrange the horizon every minute. The Morro de Areia dunes rise like moving architecture, pushing you toward the sea; beyond them, Santa Mónica opens in a long sweep of white sand and clear turquoise water.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most people who can walk short distances on sand and climb small rocky steps; no special fitness required.
Wildlife
History
Boa Vista’s economy historically centered on salt harvesting and small-scale fishing; the Cabo de Santa Maria wreck has been an informal cultural landmark since it grounded in the 1960s–70s.
Conservation
Dune vegetation and turtle nesting beaches are fragile—stick to paths, avoid disturbing nests, and take your trash with you to minimize impact.
Reserve your spot on the Boa Vista Tour: Santa Mónica, Desert & Shipwreck today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Timing for photos
Start earlier in the day to avoid harsh midday light on the cliffs and dunes and to catch calmer sea conditions for better beach photos.
Protect nesting turtles
Avoid walking on flagged sections of the beach at night and keep distance from any turtle tracks or nests you see to prevent disturbance.
Footwear for varied terrain
Bring sturdy sandals or lightweight closed shoes—sand is soft but caves and rock edges are sharp and uneven.
Hydration and sun safety
Carry at least 1–2 liters of water, high-SPF sunscreen, and a hat; shade is scarce between stops.
Swimsuit & quick-dry towel
For swimming at Santa Mónica and drying off quickly between stops.
summer
Sturdy sandals or light hiking shoes
Protects feet on dunes, rocky cave entrances, and the shipwreck’s uneven surfaces.
Reusable water bottle (1–2 L)
Keeps you hydrated in the sun and across long stretches with limited shade.
High-SPF sunscreen and sun hat
Essential for prolonged exposure on reflective sand and open coastlines.
summer