Visiting Santiago for the first time? This is for you.
Discover all the diversity of the island of Santiago on a complete full-day excursion by car, designed for those who want to experience the island's natural, cultural, and historical contrasts in a single day.
Your driver/guide will pick you up from your hotel in Aeroporto or Praia, or from the cruise port. The excursion begins with a scenic drive through the interior of Santiago, passing through natural landscapes and traditional villages. Along the way, stories will be shared about the island, its traditions, and the daily life of the local population, providing an authentic view of local culture.
Cidade do Picos: Panoramic Observation Decks
Strategic stops at natural observation decks, where you can admire the intense blue of the Atlantic Ocean and the island's wild landscape.
Assomada – Market and city centre
Visit the second largest city on the island and its main commercial centre. Explore the famous local market (open Wednesdays and Saturdays), the pedestrian street, and the central church, experiencing the rhythm of Cape Verdean life up close. Note: the market operates normally on weekdays and is completely closed on Sundays. Considered the city of intellectuals, with a highlight being Amílcar Cabral, the national hero of Cape Verde's independence.
The largest tree in Cape Verde
The Poilão de Boa Entrada is a giant tree estimated to be over 700 years old, located in the town of Boa Entrada in Assomada — the city's biggest tourist attraction and a cultural and spiritual symbol. Get in touch with local nature surrounded by lush greenery and a year-round stream, and experience the local way of life.
Serra Malagueta – Natural Park
Stop at one of the most important natural parks in Santiago, at an altitude of 800 metres. Enjoy panoramic views of green mountains, deep valleys, and great photo opportunities.
Tarrafal – Beach and seaside village
Enjoy your traditional lunch at the beachfront restaurant. Spend free time in the charming village of Tarrafal, relax on the white sand beach, and swim in perfectly tempered waters.
Return by the sea — the hillsides:
Porto Formoso: a beautiful botanical landscape with a fishing harbour that feeds many families.
Traditional Villages and Local Communities: passing through rural villages and fishing areas, you'll learn about the customs, traditions, and daily life of a people with their own identity.
Banana Plantations: route along the east coast, passing by the largest banana plantation in Cape Verde and extensive coconut groves.
This experience offers a perfect combination of nature, culture, beaches, and the Cape Verdean way of life.