Horseback Riding at Salt Flats with Cabo Verde Tours in Santa Maria - Santa Maria

Horseback Riding at Salt Flats with Cabo Verde Tours in Santa Maria

Santa Mariaeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1 hour

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; no prior riding experience necessary.

Overview

Discover the stunning salt flats of Santa Maria on a gentle horseback ride with Cabo Verde Tours. Perfect for beginners, this guided adventure offers breathtaking views and immersive cultural insights you won’t forget.

Details

In the heart of Cape Verde’s Santa Maria, a one-hour horseback ride takes you across the striking Big Salt Flats—a vast, shimmering expanse that stretches for miles under the glaring sun. This guided adventure with Cabo Verde Tours offers a rare chance to connect with the island’s raw, untouched landscape while learning about its cultural and geological significance. The salt flats, once the site of historic salt extraction, now serve as a striking natural landmark that creates an otherworldly setting—white plains contrasting against the clear blue sky, with panoramic views of the Atlantic. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rider, the gentle pace and expert guidance make this trip accessible and memorable. Certified helmets and safety briefings ensure peace of mind, while hotel pickup makes the experience seamless. The flat’s unique blend of salt crusted terrain and distant volcanic mountains creates a dramatic backdrop perfect for photography, offering visitors a chance to capture vivid landscapes and fleeting wildlife sightings.

Cabo Verde Tours has earned a reputation for offering authentic, safety-focused excursions that highlight the island’s distinctive environment. Their horseback excursions not only showcase the natural beauty but also provide insight into Sal Island’s cultural history—once a strategic salt trading hub and now a captivating destination for outdoor adventurers. The activity is ideal for those looking to add a relaxed yet striking outdoor experience to their Cape Verde itinerary, making it a unique entry point into the island’s expansive wilderness. With a commitment to responsible tourism, this tour respects the delicate salt flats ecosystem, ensuring visitors leave with more than just photos—they leave with a deeper appreciation for this surreal environment.

Whether you're seeking a quiet escape or a family-friendly adventure, this guided horseback ride offers a memorable way to experience Cape Verde’s remarkable landscapes in a relaxed, engaging manner.

Adventure Tips

Protect Yourself from the Sun

Wear sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to stay comfortable during your ride.

Stay Hydrated

Bring water with you, as the salt flats can be very hot and dry.

Dress Appropriately

Light layers and comfortable clothing help manage the midday heat and sun exposure.

Follow Safety Instructions

Listen carefully to your guide’s safety briefing to ensure a smooth ride.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Old salt processing plant ruins nearby
  • Hidden viewpoints along the coast

Wildlife

  • Ostriches
  • Sea birds

History

The salt flats have been a vital part of local trade and culture for centuries, once serving as a key salt extraction site.

Conservation

Cabo Verde Tours emphasizes minimizing impact by guiding visitors responsibly and respecting the fragile salt flat ecosystem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

early morning or late afternoon for softer light

Best Viewpoints

  • Salt flat edge overlooking the island
  • Near volcanic mountain formations

What to Photograph

Salt plains
Horse and rider silhouette
Wildlife in action

Recommended Gear

Wide-brimmed Hat

Essential

Helps shield your face from the sun to stay comfortable during the ride.

summer specific

Sunscreen

Essential

Protect your skin from intense UV rays in the open salt flats.

all specific

Light Long-Sleeve Shirt

Essential

Provides sun protection and helps keep you cool in warmer weather.

spring, fall specific

Water Bottle

Essential

Staying hydrated is crucial during outdoor activities under the hot sun.

all specific

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