Santiago Island Tour: Guided Exploration, Cooking Workshop & Tarrafal Beach Visit
4.7
3 Ratings
Praia
Explore the rural areas of Santiago Island on a guided tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cidade Velha, delve into local history and learn to cook local delights with a local family. Cross the Natural Park and swim in Santiago’s most beautiful beach, Tarrafal.
Duration:
10 hours
Cancellation:
1 day
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Highlights
- Praia - Get picked up from your accommodation and travel towards Cidade Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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Fortaleza Real de San Felipe - Take a guided walking tour of the São Filipe Fortress, and discover the ancient system of defense against pirate attacks.
Please, note that the 5 per person for Fortress entrance is not included. - Se Catedral - Next, explore the ruins of the first Cathedral built by Europeans in Sub-Saharan Africa, followed by a panoramic view of the city center’s colonial buildings from the top of Calhau fishing bay.
- Pelourinho - After that, meet local fishermen and learn the history of slavery at the former slave market in Pillory.
- Rue Banana - The walking tour continues towards the famous Banana Street with its beautiful traditional thatched houses , that was the first hurbanized street, built by the colonists, that appeared with the human occupation in the beginning of the settlement.
- Sao Jorge Dos Orgaos - Next, learn the local cuisine with a Local family in the interior of the island and cook the delicious Cape Verdean couscous, a traditional cake made from corn flour.
- Assomada - After the workshop. Drive through the mountains with photo stops at the villages of Picos, Assomada and Serra Malagueta Natural Park.
- Serra de Malagueta - Be dazzled by incredible views from 1000 meters (3,280 feet) above sea level.
- Tarrafal Beach - Before you arrive at Santiago’s most beautiful beach, Tarrafal beach. Here, swim and relax on the shore surrounded by hills and palm trees, and than stop a delicious lunch at local restaurant.
- Pedra Badejo - Drive along the beautiful east coast road and, if available, at your own expenses, refresh yourself with fresh coconut water at the largest plantation in the country.
- Praia - The tour ends with drop-off at your accommodation.
What's Included
- Comprehensive liability insurance for peace of mind
- Knowledgeable tour guide to enhance your experience
- Convenient pickup and drop-off at your accommodation in Praia or Cidade Velha
- Comfortable transportation throughout the tour
- Interactive workshop on Cuscuz and Fidjós, featuring local delicacies
What's Not Included
- Lunch
- Entrance fee (€5 for São Filipe Fortress)
Additional Information
- Please bring sandals/flip flops, a towel, a hat, swimwear, and sunscreen
- Note that the São Filipe Fortress is closed on holidays
- Please note that the Assomada Market opens only on Wednesdays and Saturdays
Location
Praia
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
4.7
(3 Ratings)
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1 star
Sergim25
Jan 23, 2022
Highly recommended!! - We had a great an very special time. The guides are very professional, they know how to adapt to your needs and preferences and they always do their best to assure you have a wonderful time. After this first excursion we booked the rest of the days with them and it was an excellent investment.
This full day trip is perfect to explore the island and discover what Santiago has to offer, you get a bit of everything, culture, nature, beach, local cusine… We just had an amazing day!
We are experienced travelers and we’ve booked many trips and guides all over the world. This guys are just great, we strongly recomend them!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Macadx
Apr 11, 2021
A must during your stay in Santiago Island - I had an amazing day doing The Best of Santiago Island tour. Admilson is an excellent guide. His passion for his work and his love for his country make the tour very enjoyable. I also had the chance to meet Rita, who is part of the team of BU Country Tours. I visited several places throughout the tour, observed beautiful landscapes and met nice people. A highly recommend this tour! It is a must during your stay in the beautiful Santiago Island.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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