With its blend of African, Brazilian and Portuguese influences, Boa Vista's capital, Sal Rei, is a riot of colour. On this exclusive tour, you'll sample Cape Verdean specialities, visit markets vibrant with local life and enjoy a guided tour of the town's most interesting locations. Artur, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘Sal Rei is Portuguese for Salt King, which tells you all you need to know about what the town was once famous for. You'll see salt pans around the capital, though most are no longer in use. Some around the fringes of town have even been built on.'

First up is a trip to the recently restored Fatima chapel – a windswept sanctuary with a beautiful simplicity on a rocky bluff just north of Sal Rei. From here, you can take in the views over the coast towards the capital. Next, we'll explore the island's past in both the Sea and Shipwreck Museums. Admire a collection of exhibits from underwater archaeological finds and artworks that reflect on the history, art and culture of the Cape Verdean people.

We dial the volume up a bit next with a visit to the market. Mingle with locals as you browse the handmade jewellery, clothing and fresh produce on display. Take a walk along Praia de Diante beach before trying Cape Verdean cocktails and tasty specialities at Sodade House of Culture. Finally, there's free time to explore this appealing little town at your own pace – visit the pretty church of St Isabel or head to one of Sal Rei's great beaches for a paddle or a coffee with a view.

Why you’ll love this…

See the sights on a walking tour of Sal Rei and Diante beach
Visit the Shipwreck Museum and browse the produce market
Taste Cape Verdean specialities at Sodade House of Culture
Take in the Atlantic views from the restored Fatima chapel
Expert local guide with an unrivalled knowledge of Boa Vista

What people say about this experience

4.1/5

All reviews are verified

Based on 236 reviews

All ratings (236)

5 stars (78)

33%

4 stars (105)

44%

3 stars (43)

18%

2 stars (6)

1 star (4)

J
Johnson
Travelled as a couple
19 December 2025
3
United States of America
To many people not enough time to enjoy the different experiences only managed to hear part of the history missed out on food tasting
J
Julie Shelton
Travelled as a couple
15 December 2025
3.4
United States of America
It was lovely to see the sights but if we had been told the museum we visited was in someone's front room we may of been more prepared. More information about the fish museum would have useful. Sal Rei is a poor town but the locals need to understand people won't buy if they feel targeted. I would have looked round more if they hadn't chased after us.
L
Lynda
Travelled as a couple
14 December 2025
3.4
United States of America
My seatbelt was broken in mini bus Driver and guide were very good Timings to each attraction was just right
C
CMat67
Travelled with family
7 December 2025
2.6
United States of America
Expensive for what it was- £32 - not worth it Felt intimidated by locals in the market- wouldn’t let us out the shop Not much else to see so price doesn’t reflect
R
Rachel
Solo traveller
30 November 2025
4.6
United States of America
The guide Winston was really friendly and engaging, he had a lot of facts to keep things interesting and the tour was really well put together. I would only ask for more food at the restaurant stop and maybe a bit more time to explore some of the museums as I like to take my time reading the exhibits and felt that this was a little rushed.
D
Dave Ellis
Travelled as a couple
21 November 2025
4.2
United States of America
Great few hours, our guide Paolo and driver Mr Sosa looked after us very well. The tour was delivered with honesty and great humour. Fatima’s Church on the hill is a beautiful little white church with a fascinating story. The two museums were very interesting seeing the artefacts found in the sea and learning about Cabo Verde heritage. Finally, the tasting in restaurant Sodade was nice little insight into the food and drink of Sal Rei. We ended the morning with a few beers by the harbour.

To many people not enough time to enjoy the different experiences only managed to hear part of the history missed out on food tasting

It was lovely to see the sights but if we had been told the museum we visited was in someone's front room we may of been more prepared. More information about the fish museum would have useful. Sal Rei is a poor town but the locals need to understand people won't buy if they feel targeted. I would have looked round more if they hadn't chased after us.

My seatbelt was broken in mini bus Driver and guide were very good Timings to each attraction was just right

Expensive for what it was- £32 - not worth it Felt intimidated by locals in the market- wouldn’t let us out the shop Not much else to see so price doesn’t reflect

The guide Winston was really friendly and engaging, he had a lot of facts to keep things interesting and the tour was really well put together. I would only ask for more food at the restaurant stop and maybe a bit more time to explore some of the museums as I like to take my time reading the exhibits and felt that this was a little rushed.

Great few hours, our guide Paolo and driver Mr Sosa looked after us very well. The tour was delivered with honesty and great humour. Fatima’s Church on the hill is a beautiful little white church with a fascinating story. The two museums were very interesting seeing the artefacts found in the sea and learning about Cabo Verde heritage. Finally, the tasting in restaurant Sodade was nice little insight into the food and drink of Sal Rei. We ended the morning with a few beers by the harbour.