Discover the captivating history and scenic beauty of Tarrafal with Cabo Verde Tours. From haunting WWII sites to lively markets and pristine beaches, this tour offers a rich taste of Santiago Island’s culture and natural splendor. Join for an immersive journey through Cape Verde’s storied past and vibrant present.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; some walking required
Wildlife
History
Tarrafal's history as a colonial prison and concentration camp is a stark reminder of Cape Verde’s fight for independence, with the site now serving as a cultural museum.
Conservation
Cabo Verde Tours emphasizes sustainable tourism by promoting respect for local culture and minimizing environmental impact during visits.
Cabo Verde Tours
Discover the captivating history and scenic beauty of Tarrafal with Cabo Verde Tours. From haunting WWII sites to lively markets and pristine beaches, this tour offers a rich taste of Santiago Island’s culture and natural splendor. Join for an immersive journey through Cape Verde’s storied past and vibrant present.
Cabo Verde Tours is a Santa Maria, Sal–based tour operator offering an extensive portfolio of guided activities and rentals across Sal and other Cape Verde islands.
The company runs horseback excursions including Salt Flats Trail, Kite Beach Trail, combined Salt Flats & Kite Beach routes, sand dunes variants, and private horseback options. These guided rides include certified helmets and hotel pickup for convenience and safety. Snorkeling departures meet at the Pier of Santa Maria and provide all equipment for two-hour marine excursions.
Day trips include a full-day Santa Maria to Boa Vista Island tour and island highlight tours such as six-hour private Sal Island tours (available in English, Portuguese, and Dutch) and the Best Full Day Sal Island Tour. Inter-island and Santiago offerings cover Tarrafal tours, Praia city tours, boat and VIP private boat tours, and historical visits to notable sites.
Water activities include catamaran sailing, half- and full-day boat rentals, kite surfing, JetSki and speedboat experiences, and bottom-fishing trips. Land adventures cover guided hikes (Serra Malagueta, Monte Leão), photography tours, Kizomba dance classes, and discover-Sal vehicle tours on ZForce, Polaris, and 550cc buggies. E-scooter rentals use modern 50cc models with helmets, racks, a cash deposit requirement, a standard car driver’s license requirement, full insurance, and road assistance.
Cabo Verde Tours emphasizes professional guides, safety briefings, provided equipment, and clear meeting points to create reliable, bookable experiences for visitors staying in Santa Maria and across Sal Island. Reservations are available online with flexible cancellation options today.
Location
Santa Maria, Sal
Base for departures across Sal Island.
Tours Offered
41 tours
Horseback, boat, hiking, motorsports.
Safety
Helmets & Insurance
Safety briefings and provided equipment.
Durations
From 1–6 hours
Half-day to full-day excursions.
Secure horseback rides, snorkeling trips, boat tours and rentals with easy online booking, hotel pickup, and included equipment.
Wear comfortable walking shoes
Many sites, including the concentration camp and markets, require a fair amount of walking on uneven surfaces.
Bring sunscreen and water
The sun can be intense, especially on open beaches and exposed sites, so hydration and sun protection are key.
Respect local customs
Engage courteously with local vendors and be mindful of cultural norms during your visit.
Plan for time at the beach
Allow some downtime to relax on Tarrafal’s beautiful sands after touring the historical sites.
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for walking through historical sites and local markets comfortably.
Sunscreen
Protects your skin during outdoor activities in the sunny Cape Verde climate.
Hat or cap
Offers additional protection from the sun while exploring the beaches and sites.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during your sightseeing to beat the heat and sun.