Sal Travel Guide

Discover the highlights of Sal, Cape Verde with this comprehensive travel guide including places to visit, activities, food and drink, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Sal

Sal is one of the ten islands that make up the Cape Verde archipelago located off the west coast of Africa. A volcanic island, Sal is known for its stunning sandy beaches, clear waters, and warm weather. Sal is a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from all over the world. This comprehensive travel guide will take you through the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Sal.

List of Places to Visit in Sal

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Viveiro Botanic Garden - A botanical garden that is home to a variety of plant species, including many endemic ones.
  • Project Biodiversity Turtle Conservation - A non-profit organization that works towards the conservation of sea turtles and their habitats.
  • Diogo Gomes Statue - A statue dedicated to Diogo Gomes, a Portuguese explorer and navigator who discovered Cape Verde.

Natural Attractions of Sal: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kite Beach - A popular spot for kiteboarding due to its strong winds and flat waters.
  • Terra Boa Vista Salt Marsh - A salt marsh known for its stunning views of pink water.
  • Blue Eye - A natural pool with crystal-clear blue water that is ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sal

  • Pedra de Lume Trail - A trail that takes you to the top of Pedra de Lume, a volcanic crater that was used for salt mining.
  • Espargos to Santa Maria Trail - A hiking trail that takes you from the town of Espargos to the beach town of Santa Maria.

Best Things to Do in Sal: Activities and Tours

  • Quad Biking - Explore Sal’s off-road trails on a quad bike.
  • Deep-Sea Fishing - Experience the thrill of deep-sea fishing in the waters off Sal.
  • Cultural Tour - Learn about Sal’s history and culture on a guided tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sal

Day Activity
1 Visit Terra Boa Vista Salt Marsh and swim at Kite Beach
2 Take a hiking tour of Pedra de Lume
3 Go quad biking in the desert
4 Explore the fishing village of Palmeira
5 Take a day trip to the nearby island of Boa Vista
6 Relax on Santa Maria Beach and take a cultural tour
7 Experience deep-sea fishing in the waters off Sal

Food and Drink Scene of Sal

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cachupa - A traditional Cape Verdean stew made with corn, beans, and meat or fish.
  • Lagosta Grelhada - Grilled lobster served with local vegetables and rice.
  • Pastels - Fried pastries filled with seasoned fish or meat.

Local Beverages

  • Grogue - A locally made rum that is often served with cola or tropical juices.
  • Ponche - A sweet alcoholic beverage made with fruit and sugarcane rum.
  • Brisa - A refreshing non-alcoholic drink made from local fruits.

Where to Stay in Sal: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Cape Verde Resort - A luxurious beachside resort with a spa, private beach, and on-site restaurants.
  • Leme Bedje Residence - A stylish apartment complex near Santa Maria Beach.
  • Nestor Hotel - A budget-friendly hotel located in Espargos.

What to Buy in Sal: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Crafts - Handcrafted items made by local artisans, such as baskets, pottery, and textiles.
  • Cape Verdean Coffee - Locally grown coffee that is emphasized by its fruity flavor and richness
  • Grogue - A bottle of locally made rum is a great gift or souvenir to bring home from Sal.

Local Culture and Customs of Sal

  • Religion - Cape Verde has a deeply religious culture, with the majority of the population being Christian.
  • Cesaria Evora - Cape Verde’s legendary singer is celebrated throughout the country for her contribution to music.
  • Music and Dance - Cape Verdean music is characterized by its African and Portuguese influences, and its upbeat rhythms are often accompanied by lively dance.

Best Time to Visit Sal

The best time to visit Sal is during the dry and warm season from October to June. During these months, the weather is sunny and dry, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sal

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.
  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Explore Sal’s natural beauty by participating in outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing outside of the beach areas.
  • Take photographs of people without their permission.
  • Litter or damage the natural environment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sal

Sal is a safe destination for tourists, but it is important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Keep your valuables safe and avoid walking alone at night.

Health in Sal

It is recommended to drink bottled water and take necessary precautions to prevent mosquito bites to avoid Malaria. Ensure you have comprehensive health insurance to cover vaccinations, emergency care and other treatments.

Getting to Sal: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sal

Sal International Airport (SID) is located in Espargos, the largest town on the island, and is the main gateway to the island.

Bus Stations Near Sal

Sal does not have a bus station. Taxis are available for hire.

Other Options

Boat rides and ferries are available from other nearby islands of Cape Verde.

How to Get Around in Sal

The best way to get around Sal is to hire a car or a quad bike. Taxis are also available for hire, including minibuses for larger groups.

Where to Go Next from Sal: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Boa Vista - The nearby desert island is a popular destination known for its stunning beaches and nature reserves.
  • Santiago - The largest island in Cape Verde offers a rich cultural experience.
  • Pico do Fogo - Visitors can hike through the volcanic landscape and enjoy views of the crater of the highest peak in Cape Verde.

Conclusion

Sal is a beautiful island destination with a unique culture and stunning natural landscapes. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the outdoors, or immerse yourself in local culture, Sal has something to offer every type of traveler. With this comprehensive guide, you’re now ready to plan your trip to Sal, Cape Verde.