THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Ride through the Grandes Salinas de Santa Maria to the Atlantic shore at Kite Beach. Whether you’re a novice or experienced rider, Menzel Cabo Verde’s horseback tour offers unique coastal views and the chance to gallop along the surf in Cabo Verde.
Ride through the Grandes Salinas de Santa Maria to the Atlantic shore at Kite Beach. Whether you’re a novice or experienced rider, Menzel Cabo Verde’s horseback tour offers unique coastal views and the chance to gallop along the surf in Cabo Verde.
Book with Menzel Cabo Verde
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Menzel Cabo Verde · Santa Maria, Sal
Set along the southern edge of Sal Island in Cabo Verde, Menzel Cabo Verde offers a distinct horseback riding journey across the Grandes Salinas de Santa Maria leading to Kite Beach. This coastal stretch is marked by expansive salt flats that shimmer under the equatorial sun, creating a stunning backdrop where dry, cracked salt beds contrast with the vibrant turquoise Atlantic surf just beyond. The ride begins on firm, salt-enriched terrain that naturally draws salt-loving flora and patches of resilient desert scrub, feeding into the legendary natural salt pans that have shaped this region’s economy and culture for centuries.
Riders of all skill levels find their pace here: beginners ease into the rhythm of horseback travel with guided, leisurely paces along quieter parts of the trail, absorbing panoramic views of Kite Beach’s rolling sand dunes and rhythmic waves. Those with more riding experience often gallop along where the surf meets sand, a rare equestrian thrill where ocean spray cools both horse and rider. The beach itself is renowned as one of the top kite surfing destinations worldwide, and spotting kite surfers in action adds a kinetic energy to this otherwise tranquil coastal ride.
Menzel Cabo Verde’s ride stands out for its immersive blend of nature, culture, and physical engagement. Their expert guides share insights into the local salt harvesting history and the ecological significance of the salt flats. Safety and comfort are prioritized, with groups capped at eight riders and age limits allowing family participation from age three, reassuring for any traveling party.
This experience is a compelling alternative to the usual beach day or city tour of Sal Island, bringing visitors closer to the island’s natural rhythms and maritime atmosphere from horseback. Whether you’re chasing a solo moment on a dappled pony or seeking a shared adventure with friends, the connection to Cabo Verde’s coastal environment, infused with history and vitality, makes Menzel Cabo Verde an exceptional choice for outdoor adventurers on the island.
moderate.
1.5 hours.
Suitable for riders in reasonable physical shape; a basic level of balance and stamina helps.
No, Menzel Cabo Verde welcomes riders of all levels, including beginners who can enjoy a gentle pace.
The maximum rider weight is 90 kg to ensure safety and comfort.
Yes, children aged 3 years and older can participate, making it a family-friendly activity.
Yes, transfers from your hotel or accommodation on Sal Island are included.
Comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, and sun protection are recommended for the best experience.
Experienced riders are welcomed to gallop along the surf, adding an exhilarating element to the trip.
The Grandes Salinas de Santa Maria have been a vital economic resource since the 19th century, supplying sea salt across West Africa.
Local efforts focus on preserving the delicate salt pan ecosystems and minimizing tourist impact through guided, small-group tours.
Menzel Cabo Verde is a tour operator featured on The Adventure Collective that provides a wide range of outdoor experiences across Sal and Boa Vista in Cabo Verde. The company organizes activity-based trips including quad bike and motoquad rentals, buggy tours (500cc and 1000cc), scooter and jet ski rentals, and guided boat excursions such as catamaran cruises and full-day sailing trips. Menzel Cabo Verde also offers water-based activities like snorkeling, diving baptisms, and private or group fishing trips (trolling and jigging). Land and cultural experiences include horse riding on Kite Beach and Salinas, electric bicycle tours, dune and desert itineraries, cultural routes visiting Praia do Cabo de Santa Maria and Sal Rei, and evening turtle nesting observation walks on protected beaches. Specific highlighted trips include Ilha do Sal discovery tours (half-day and full-day), Veleiro Cape Verde Sailing day trips with snorkeling and onboard lunch, Buggy Desert Adventures, and guided turtle observation on Boa Vista between June and October. Reservations include options for private groups and transfers for some activities. Menzel Cabo Verde’s program list covers more than fifty distinct trips, encompassing short two-hour tours up to full-day and multi-hour private excursions. The operator provides introductory diving baptisms with pool instruction followed by ocean dives for first-time divers, and family-friendly catamaran cruises for adults or family use. The company’s inclusion on The Adventure Collective increases visibility for its diverse itineraries. Guests can choose adventure, wildlife, cultural or relaxation-focused tours tailored to different activity levels and group sizes, with local guides available.
Book with Menzel Cabo Verde