.png)
Top Things to Do in Sal,
Cabo Verde for Conscious Tourists
Are you considering a journey to Cabo Verde, especially Sal? Sit tight. This guide reveals the top things to do in Sal—we'll show you where to park your heart when immersing yourself in our nature-rich island. From azure seas and white beaches to volcanic hotspots, Sal unfolds a list of adventures.
Embracing conscious tourism on Sal Island
Embrace these principles for an enriching and sustainable trip to this exciting destination. By doing so, you will receive an incredible experience and give back to nature in the most meaningful way.
Before you set your sights on Sal, consider the following:
Leave nature unlittered
Keep the environment clean. Do not litter! The best way to limit plastic pollution on Sal is to say no to purchasing single-use plastics while on the island. Remember, Sal is working towards enhancing its waste management systems. There's minimal recycling; only a tiny company collects bottle caps for artisanal crafts like keychains. This means that plastics and waste produced by tourists and habitants end up in one landfill. Due to strong winds, much of the waste here ends up in the ocean, and we receive a lot of waste from other countries. Bringing reusable water bottles to the Cabo Verde islands would significantly reduce your reliance on single-use plastic, which is currently a significant issue.
Respect wildlife
Please realise that interacting with wild animals will undoubtedly be harmful. Minimise interactions and always maintain a respectful distance. We will touch more on this later.
Preserve the path
Given Sal's delicate ecosystem, it's vital to ensure that nature excursions stay on designated pathways to protect the environment and minimise your impact. More on this later.
Protect our Flora
Sal's plants are delicate and easily damaged. They are adapted to hydric stress, meaning they look dry and dead during the dry season, but they are still alive and vital to the ecosystem. Try not to walk over them!
Guard our coral reefs
When planning your trip to Cabo Verde, please consider what you bring and your environmental impact. Remember to bring sun protection from home, as genuine and sustainable products are hard to find here. When entering the water, always use coral-friendly sunscreen or UV shirts.
Applying a lot of sunscreen and swimming directly into the ocean can harm wildlife, so using UV shirts is a responsible choice to protect our delicate ecosystem.
Remember: opt for sun cream that doesn't harm coral reefs.
Sustainable accommodation
Committing to a conscious travel experience to Cabo Verde begins with your chosen accommodations and guided tours.
Environmentally conscious accommodations on Sal usually utilise energy-saving practices such as solar power, water-reducing policies, and on-site waste recycling systems. They are also likely to implement water-conserving mechanisms in bathrooms and kitchens, utilise locally sourced food to reduce carbon footprint and uphold excellent relations with local communities. Staying in sustainable accommodations often means supporting local businesses such as shops and restaurants, which supports the local economy.
We advise you to research and check which hotels and accommodations are making efforts towards sustainable tourism. While it's not widespread in Cabo Verde, some places invest in solar power, energy reduction, water conservation and biodiversity protection. If sustainability is important, prioritise your accommodation based on these efforts.
Responsibly guided tours
While selecting tour operators and agencies, determine their compliance with animal welfare standards. Many wildlife tours involve interactions with animals, making it vital to ensure the animals' safety and well-being are paramount. Your travel guide should adhere to strict guidelines that prevent feeding, touching or any disruptive behaviour that may cause stress or harm to our wildlife and their habitats. If you feel your guide needs to consider this, or your excursion is having too much of a negative impact, ask your guide respectfully to stop the excursion and take you back to your accommodation.
You can enjoy your trip and leave a positive legacy for future generations through responsible decisions.
Wildlife activities on Sal:
Before exploring Sal's abundant wildlife, remember that these creatures call this island home. Respecting their natural habitats and treading lightly ensures their continued existence.
Bird-watching
Sal is a nature-blessed island home to many bird species, some endemic to Cabo Verde. Key among them is the Red-billed Tropical Bird (Phaethon aethereus), whose striking appearance makes bird-watching on this island a unique treat. We have one of the largest colonies of red-billed tropical birds in West Africa, located on Sal Island, and this beautiful bird attracts many visitors. Seabird species like Shearwaters (Puffinus) and Petrels (Procellaria) and coastal birds like Plovers (Charadrius) or Sandpipers exist.
Despite the rarity of rain—less than a handful of days a year—it can be intense, causing temporary flooding due to the dry soil's inability to absorb it, creating temporary lakes. These wetlands are crucial for the island's Atlantic biodiversity. During their annual migration, various bird species visit our island, particularly enjoying the temporary lakes. The visitors include European Spoonbills (Platalea), numerous Egrets (Egretta), and other bird species.
Some species use Sal as their breeding areas, such as most seabirds, wader birds, and the majestic Osprey (Pandion haliaetus), which breeds during the winter months. Be aware of this when approaching colonies or when birds behave erratically, and, in this case, leave the area immediately.
Are you ready to embark on a bird-watching adventure? We recommend contacting local tour agencies to make the most of your experience. Their well-orchestrated private tours offer memorable experiences and instil a sense of responsibility towards nurturing these beautiful inhabitants. So, get in touch and get ready for an unforgettable journey!
Sea turtle species you can find on Sal Island
We are fortunate to have five sea turtle species in the waters around Cabo Verde:
-
Loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta)
-
Green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas)
-
Hawksbill sea turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata)
-
Olive ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea)
-
Leatherback sea turtle (Dermochelys coriacea)
Loggerhead turtles mainly nest here during the summer months. However, you can spot sea turtles year-round, even after the nesting season ends in early October. Specific reefs are renowned for sea turtle sightings, but due to strong currents around the island, they are frequently seen during organised snorkelling trips.
Sea turtles spotting
On Sal, you can witness the mesmerising phenomenon of loggerhead sea turtles nesting at night. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is one of the favourite tourist activities during the summer.
The Loggerhead sea turtles from Cabo Verde are an endangered species, and observing their nesting process is delicate and strictly regulated, so you should choose government-certified and trained guides.
Follow the government recommendation and remember never to disturb these beautiful creatures, and:
-
Keep your distance, always behind them.
-
Do not use any light or flash.
-
No touching.
-
No smoking or drinking.
-
No noise.
-
Do not step on the nests.
Also, remember that the official nesting season on Sal Island typically runs from mid-June to mid-October, but starting in 2024, observing nesting is now restricted from July 1st to October 31st. We do not recommend observing nesting adults in October, as they are few in numbers and walking on the beach at night endangers hatchlings that try to find their way into the ocean.
Outside the nesting and hatching season, you can spot other sea turtle species around the island's reefs. They are juveniles feeding on different biodiversity. When you swim, snorkel or dive with sea turtles, remember that they are sensitive animals, much like nesting sea turtles. Contact with humans often brings diseases:
-
Swim alongside the sea turtle and not above them to give them room to surface and breathe if needed.
-
Keep your distance at least 3 metres; if they are curious, they will approach you.
-
Please do not touch or hold them.
-
Do not use bright lights or flash.
-
Do not feed them; it can be toxic and lead to diseases, even if they ingest it willingly.
-
All sea turtle species are protected by law, and any violation, such as disturbing, killing, or consuming sea turtle products, can lead to fines and imprisonment. If you see any inappropriate behaviour from your guide or any of the tourists, ask your guide to stop the excursion and politely explain why.
Hatching season
From late August until the end of November, you can even watch our public nest excavations—a memorable contribution to the sea turtle population's preservation efforts. Join our public excavations, rated as the #1 Thing to do in Santa Maria on TripAdvisor, and watch a tour around our conservation hatchery to understand what to expect before your arrival!
Baby sea turtles, or hatchlings, emerge naturally at night, as do those in our conservation hatcheries. However, we excavate the nest after most eggs have hatched naturally. Doing so gives the struggling hatchlings a second chance at life while we record critical scientific data.
Once the hatching period is in full swing every day at 16:30, we present our work and the importance of conservation to visitors, attracting tourists who can witness the excavation. The activity is very popular; visitors can see baby turtles as we retrieve them from the nests before safely releasing them. However, the releases are not permitted to the public as they can unexpectedly impact baby turtles. Please do not join any excursion that promises to release baby turtles!
Hatching season
From late August until the end of November, you can even watch our public nest excavations—a memorable contribution to the sea turtle population's preservation efforts. Join our public excavations, rated as the #1 Thing to do in Santa Maria on TripAdvisor, and watch a tour around our conservation hatchery to understand what to expect before your arrival!
Baby sea turtles, or hatchlings, emerge naturally at night, as do those in our conservation hatcheries. However, we excavate the nest after most eggs have hatched naturally. Doing so gives the struggling hatchlings a second chance at life while we record critical scientific data.
Once the hatching period is in full swing every day at 16:30, we present our work and the importance of conservation to visitors, attracting tourists who can witness the excavation. The activity is very popular; visitors can see baby turtles as we retrieve them from the nests before safely releasing them. However, the releases are not permitted to the public as they can unexpectedly impact baby turtles. Please do not join any excursion that promises to release baby turtles!
We don't charge any fees for this activity
It's open to anyone who wants to join. Visitors can support us through symbolic adoptions and donations, which can also be done online, and watching us work is free during the visit. You'll get the opportunity to see baby turtles up close without cost! You may also find baby turtles lost on the beach. This usually happens on tourist or urban beaches after artificial lighting disorients the hatchlings at night. If you find baby turtles during the day, bring them directly to the water, and do not leave them for unnecessary time to take pictures or show them around.
Our work with sea turtles
Make your trip more meaningful by contributing to Project Biodiversity's sea turtle conservation initiatives on Sal. Protecting these animals and their habitats requires a concerted effort, and your support can go a long way toward ensuring the survival of these amazing marine creatures.
Whale-watching
Sal Island offers a unique and privileged opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring migration of humpback whales. These gentle giants grace Cabo Verde's warm waters to reproduce between February and May. Marvel at their majestic presence from a respectful distance, following responsible expedition practices.
There are two populations: one migrates from the northern Atlantic southward, while another passes South Africa heading north, arriving in late October, though less frequently seen. The northern Atlantic humpback whales, seen more often, visit Cabo Verde during breeding. The area's shallow and warm water provides shelter and the perfect conditions to attract many mothers with calves.
Unlike Boa Vista, where whale-watching tours are regularly offered, such tours are not as developed in Sal. Instead, daily sailing boats and occasional diving trips in specific areas often encounter whales during the season.
It's crucial to remember that whale-watching excursions can have a negative impact, potentially pushing mothers and calves into deeper and more dangerous waters. In Boa Vista, the latest reports suggest that excursions must go further every year to spot them. As visitors in their world, it's our responsibility to ensure we leave no trace behind. Let's practice responsible and respectful wildlife watching!
A note on dolphins
Dolphins are abundant year-round in Cabo Verde, and they are often encountered on sailing or diving boats as they travel around the islands. They are widespread on Sal, where Pilot Whales (Globicephala), Rough-Toothed Dolphins (Steno bredanensis), and Atlantic Spotted Dolphins (Stenella frontalis) are common. So, remember to look out for them!
Shark watching in Shark Bay
Shark-watching activities primarily occur in Parda Reef, commonly known as Shark Bay. This activity provides the thrilling opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat while respecting the delicate balance of nature. Visitors can see juvenile lemon sharks (Negaprion brevirostris) swimming in this shallow reef. You can also spot adults from a distance at some point during the year. Pups and juvenile sharks, measuring 50cm to over 1m, inhabit this reef to protect themselves from predators.
The Cabo Verde Archipelago is a hotspot for marine biodiversity, boasting an impressive array of over 60 shark and ray species. Both migratory and resident species, especially nurse and lemon sharks, can be seen while snorkelling or diving. Other sharks, such as Tiger (Galeocerdo cuvier), Hammerhead (Sphyrna), and Whale sharks (Rhincodon typus), are more elusive and are rarely seen on nearshore waters.
Renting water shoes for Shark Bay excursions
At Parda, renting water shoes to navigate the rocky terrain and sea urchins is essential. This also supports the local economy, such as the nearby fishing village, Pedra de Lume. There are guided tours to the shark nursery, and guides are available at the reef to show you around the water.
As you step into the water, it's crucial to remember two things: respect and responsibility. Sharks, as sensitive creatures, should never be touched or fed, even if it's suggested. When booking your tour, inquire about the feeding practices and decline the excursion if it involves feeding the sharks. Remember, our actions should always leave no trace behind.
Our work with Sal’s lemon sharks
For the past 2.5 years, we've been monitoring these sharks by collecting biometric data, tagging, and observing them to provide scientific proof for the shark nursery. This evidence is crucial for gaining government investment in protection, such as creating new protected areas. Recently, we've trained guides on shark biology to educate tourists better. We've also created pathways and set up signs to prevent damage to biodiversity in water and on land, such as fragile corals and other species.
Nature and responsible visiting
Sal, a key biodiversity spot, boasts a menagerie of marine life, including various shark species and a tapestry of seabirds. The island is also a kaleidoscope of undersea coral reefs teeming with fish of every colour. The government designated Protected Areas on the island to protect and preserve these habitats, following specific guidelines and regulations.
During the last few years, we have worked to place information panels in those areas, but some still have no official signs. While visiting these areas, always abide by the guidelines and follow common sense. Consciously engaging with the area's flora and fauna fosters their continued survival, ensuring they're available for future generations to appreciate. Remember, attempts to interfere with or remove flora or fauna can disrupt ecosystems, threatening the delicate balance that nature takes centuries to cultivate.
When you dive or snorkel, remember that even a slight touch can cause serious harm to the delicate coral reefs. It's crucial to refrain from touching them and to use reef-safe sunscreen to avoid causing further damage to these sensitive underwater organisms.Interaction with wildlife should also be limited. While getting up close and personal with exotic creatures can be enticing, such interactions can stress animals and negatively influence their natural behaviour.
To wrap up, Sal Island is a treasure trove of rich biodiversity, and the conservation of this natural wonder lies in our hands. Following our guidelines and respecting nature ensures a memorable experience and contributes to responsible and sustainable conservation.
Beautiful beaches, water sports, hiking and bike renting
You can swim and snorkel at our beaches, and while scuba diving may not be as vibrant as the Maldives, you’ll still see plenty. Sal boasts a variety of unique fish species and diverse coral, crustaceans, and molluscs; divers will experience a vibrant and exciting underwater experience! Santa Maria Beach, in particular, is a prime location for diving and snorkelling, and it is gorgeous!
Kitesurfing
Sal, known for its strong winds, is a hub for wind and water sports like kitesurfing. It hosts the annual kitesurfing world championships, attracting many enthusiasts who visit specifically for this sport. The windy season typically runs from October to March, but kite surfing is still possible outside these months
Things to be aware of when kitesurfing
While many water sports enthusiasts are conservation-conscious, some kite surfers inadvertently enter protected areas, risking habitats like dunes crucial for coastline stability. Speeding in certain zones could also disturb sea turtles surfacing to breathe, so be aware of your surroundings and don’t approach or follow surfacing species. Avoid stepping or placing material on dunes or plants to preserve the dunes, which prevent coastal erosion and provide essential habitats.
With many kite surfers walking over the dunes and plants, many beach sections are degrading in protected areas, increasing erosion risk, threatening biodiversity, and destroying nesting grounds
Surfing
There are three main surfing spots on the island: two around Santa Maria and another in the Marine Protected Area of Murdeira, all accessible by car. The south features flat landscapes with dunes and beaches, while the north offers mountains and cliffs.
Surf spots like Santa Maria and Ponta Preta provide excellent conditions, from beginner-friendly swells to towering waves for experienced surfers. However, while opting for these water sports, be mindful not to impact the surrounding habitats by driving over vegetation or walking over coral reefs.
Hiking
Although Sal is not known as a hiking destination, the island offers some easy walks and beautiful views. If you prefer coastal walks, visit Murdeira Bay, a Marine Protected Area with incredible views of Mount Rabo de Junco, or as it is commonly known, Monte Leão (Mont Lion), for its shape of a lying lion. If you prefer a traditional hike, climb Serra Negra and enjoy the views of the white sand beach below the mountain.
Sal’s cliffs are home to nesting seabirds, so hikers should be mindful not to disturb nesting areas, as human presence can deter birds from returning. During the months from January until April, it is the Osprey breeding season, so if you see ospreys flying on top of you, leave the area as soon as possible, as they are probably incubating eggs and may abandon the nest if they feel threatened.
Salinas de Pedra de Lume
The Salinas de Pedra de Lume, situated in the crater of an extinct volcano on Sal, is celebrated for its historic salt pans. The crater's unique geography allows seawater to seep in, forming buoyant saltwater pools reminiscent of the Dead Sea.
Once a volcano, Sal's low elevation allows for these unique geological formations, historically significant for salt production and trade. Indeed, sal production and trade, mainly to Brazil, represented an economic boom for the island. This economic activity drove the settlement of Sal with Cabo Verdeans from other islands, with the village of Pedra de Lume at its heart.
The Salinas de Pedra de Lume offer natural beauty and therapeutic waters and provides a glimpse into the island's rich historical and economic past, with remnants of old mining equipment and structures.Floating in the mineral-rich waters of this salt pan is believed to offer various health benefits, including improved skin conditions and circulation. Whether you're there for the unique floating experience, the stunning landscape, or the historical insights, a visit to the fishing town of Pedra de Lume is a must for anyone travelling to Sal, Cabo Verde.
Bike renting
Visitors can rent bikes or E-bikes in Santa Maria and quickly reach the southern Protected Areas of Sal. Horseback riding along designated paths is also available, though adherence to these paths remains a concern due to the fragile constitution of the dune habitats and the presence of sea turtle nests on the beaches.
Exploring by bike offers a unique experience of scenic routes near historic salt flats (Salinas), where salt is harvested traditionally, with ample bird-watching opportunities. Periodic cleanups along the east coast address marine debris from West Africa, Europe, and South America.
Despite challenges in organising due to limited funding, we encourage tourists to join cleanup events. Your participation and bringing a plastic bag while biking allows you to independently collect trash, making a significant impact in just a few minutes.
Venturing "off the beaten track" remains essential when exploring Sal. Get on a bicycle and indulge in the tranquillity of Sal's protected landscapes.
Bask in the thrill of riding along the breathtaking coastline whilst observing the diversity oscillating between rocky formations and sandy beaches. No experience is required, making it accessible for novices and experts alike.
Remember to protect yourself from the sun during your rides. With the winds, this is often underestimated.
Scuba diving and snorkelling in Sal, Cabo Verde
Sal Island offers exceptional opportunities for scuba diving and snorkelling enthusiasts to explore its vibrant underwater world.
Here’s what you can expect:
-
Crustaceans: Sal's dive sites are home to crustaceans, including lobsters, shrimp, and crabs.
-
Corals: Cabo Verde is a hotspot for corals in West Africa, home to various marine life.
-
Fish: Encounter various fish species, from colourful tropical fish to larger pelagic species that populate the island's waters.
-
Molluscs: Discover the fascinating world of molluscs, including snails, octopuses, and nudibranchs.
-
Sea Turtles: Experience the thrill of encountering majestic sea turtles in their natural habitat, a highlight for many divers visiting Sal.
-
Sharks (Nurse): Encounter nurse sharks, known for their docile nature and often seen resting on the sandy bottoms.
-
Rays: Manta rays and other ray species can be spotted gracefully gliding around Sal's dive sites, especially near wrecks and walls.
-
Other Marine Life: With luck, divers may spot dolphins, whales, and other shark species, adding to the excitement of exploring Sal's underwater ecosystems.
Whether you're a novice or an experienced diver, Sal's scuba diving sites promise unforgettable encounters with marine life amidst stunning coral reefs and clear waters (depending on the season).
Cultural heritage and island exploration
Cabo Verde's rich cultural tapestry blends West African, European and Brazilian influences, shaped by its historical role as a stopover for enslaved West Africans en route to the Americas and Europe. Unlike many African nations with distinct ethnic traditions, Cabo Verde's culture is a unique fusion, reflecting its diverse heritage.
You can visit the official government website for tourism to learn more.
Santa Maria
The Salinas de Pedra de Lume, situated in the crater of an extinct volcano on Sal, is celebrated for its historic salt pans. The crater's unique geography allows seawater to seep in, forming buoyant saltwater pools reminiscent of the Dead Sea.
Once a volcano, Sal's low elevation allows for these unique geological formations, historically significant for salt production and trade. Indeed, sal production and trade, mainly to Brazil, represented an economic boom for the island. This economic activity drove the settlement of Sal with Cabo Verdeans from other islands, with the village of Pedra de Lume at its heart.
Murdeira, Espargos, and Pedra de Lume
Murdeira, Espargos, and Pedra de Lume each contribute to the rich tapestry of Sal Island with their distinct offerings:
-
Murdeira captivates visitors with its tranquil coastal vistas, offering sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. This serene town is a haven for relaxation and nature enthusiasts, where the waves' rhythm and the coastline's untouched beauty create a peaceful retreat.
-
Espargos is the bustling heart of Sal, known for its vibrant market scenes and lively atmosphere. Here, locals and visitors explore the local lifestyle and visit quaint market stalls selling fresh produce and local crafts. Espargos is a quiet town where you can truly experience the traditional Cabo Verdean lifestyle.
-
Pedra de Lume is renowned for its historical significance and natural wonders. Nestled adjacent to the crater of an extinct volcano, it boasts historic salt flats that have been in operation for centuries. The area's unique geological formation allows seawater to seep into the crater, creating saline pools renowned for their buoyancy and therapeutic properties, akin to the Dead Sea. Visitors must drive through the village of Pedra de Lume to reach this natural wonder, with the historic harbour and port nearby. Make sure to stop by the Porto de Pedra de Lume on your way back — the port is set against the dramatic backdrop of Pedra de Lume’s extinct volcanic crater and salt flats. The contrast between the rugged landscape and the serene waters of the port creates a visually striking scene!
Each town on Sal Island offers a unique perspective on the island's culture, history, and natural beauty, making it a compelling destination for travellers seeking relaxation and exploration.
Palmeira Port
Palmeira's port is a hub for fishing. Visitors can observe daily fishing activities, see the port's painted walls and enjoy freshly caught seafood at the local restaurants. The pier is fascinating, with fishermen bringing in their catches and fishmongers selling directly to locals and tourists alike.
Dance and cooking classes
Immerse yourself in Cabo Verdean culture with dance classes showcasing local rhythms or cooking classes teaching traditional dishes. These hands-on experiences reflect the island's rich culinary and musical heritage.
Museum and Botanical Garden
Visit the Museu do Sal to delve into Sal Island's history and cultural legacy and relax at the Botanical Garden, a rare green space on an otherwise desertic island featuring local flora and fauna and a small bar restaurant for refreshments.
Local events
Experience Cabo Verde's lively cultural scene through monthly concerts featuring local musicians, some renowned within the West African community. Traditional festivals like Independence Day on July 5th showcase drumming rehearsals and town parades, while the Cabo Verde Carnival, one of the largest in the region, follows Brazil's lead.
In Cabo Verde, Carnival is a grand affair, especially in southern São Vicente, though celebrated across all islands. Festivities in towns like Espargos and Santa Maria feature colourful parades, energetic dancing, and distinctive music styles, showcasing the island's rich cultural heritage.
Visitors also enjoy the bustling atmosphere at small piers, where fishermen bring in their catches, and local fishmongers sell fresh seafood. This cultural spectacle adds to the vibrant charm of Cabo Verde's coastal towns.
Delicacies and souvenirs
While exploring Sal, satiating your palate should be on your agenda! Cabo Verde's cuisine is flavoursome, fresh, and predominantly seafood-based. Indulge in the brightly seasoned national dish, Cachupa, relish succulent (grilled fish).
You can also make a difference here! Refuse undersized fish the same way you would do in your country. Reef fish, such as groupers, are overfished to please tourists’ demands, so make sure they are the right size before ordering.
Note: Vegans and vegetarians may find dining options limited in Cabo Verde. Traditional cuisine heavily features meat and seafood, and veganism still needs to be introduced. While most eateries offer dishes with animal-based ingredients, a vegetarian Catchupa or Feijoada (Brazilian Black Bean Stew) is a rare and delightful find.
After your gastronomic journey, head to local markets like the Municipal Market or shops like Djunta Mo Art. Both spots offer an array of handicrafts showcasing the island's culture, from pottery and vibrant woven rugs to intricate jewellery, handmade musical instruments, and traditional dresses. Purchasing these souvenirs serves as precious mementoes for your trip and aids in supporting local artisans and their families.
A balanced approach to feasting and souvenir shopping will ensure your trip to Sal, Cabo Verdean, is memorable and ecologically responsible. Enjoy nourishing your taste buds while supporting the local economy.
Educate yourself and others before you visit Sal,
Cabo Verde
Before visiting Sal, Cabo Verde, we encourage tourists to educate themselves about the cultural and environmental aspects of the destination. Learning about local customs, traditions, and environmental challenges can enrich your experience and contribute positively to sustainable tourism.
-
It's important to explore beyond Santa Maria. Sal Island offers various towns and attractions ideal for half-day or day trips. Exploring these areas diversifies your experience and supports local communities beyond the main tourist hubs.
-
Share your knowledge: As you learn about Sal's unique cultural and environmental features, share this knowledge with fellow travellers. Please encourage others to adopt sustainable practices during their visit, such as respecting wildlife, conserving resources, and supporting eco-friendly businesses.
By fostering an understanding of Sal's rich heritage and fragile ecosystem, tourists play a crucial role. Their responsible behaviour and respect for the environment are key to preserving this beautiful island for future generations.
Let's make Sal, Cabo Verde, a sustainable and enriching destination for years.