10 X Best Travel Tips To The Island Of Sal!
Exploring Sal, an island in Cabo Verde
The island of Sal is part of Cape Verde, a group of ten islands off the west coast of Africa. This relatively unknown tropical paradise is a former Portuguese colony. I completely fell in love with Sal! I have even returned there a couple of times, which is something I rarely do.
Sal meaning salt in Portuguese is named after the two large salt ponds on the island; Pedra de Lume and Santa Maria. This island is an absolutely gorgeous travel destination! It offers many sights and activities to enjoy on top of the beautiful crystal clear turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, sun, and tropical vibes.
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Santa Maria
Travel Tips For Sal Cape Verde
Practical Information For Sal
You do need a visa to enter Cabo Verde! Make sure you arrange it enough time in advance.
If you are traveling directly from Europe, there are no vaccinations required for entry. Still, consider speaking with your doctor about yellow fever, Hepatitis A & Typhoid.
The official language is Creole, Portuguese is the second language here, and French is also spoken in some parts as well as English.
It's relatively easy to fly directly from Europe and the UK to Sal and Boa Vista which is the largest island.
Make sure you have travel as well as health insurance is taken out before you travel. It is important to have the right insurance coverage for your trip. Think about the different activities you are planning to do for example. It is always better to be prepared so you have peace of mind knowing that if God forbid something should go wrong, you will have the help you’ll need.
The Best Time To Travel To Sal
This sunny island has beautiful sunshine and comfy temps throughout the year, the rainy season is from July to October, although rainfall is low. From October to June it’s the dry season, and winds can blow hard at times so it's advisable to have a light jacket or a sweater for the evening time.
Where To Stay On Sal
Santa Maria is where the magic of Sal happens. Here you have everything you need and want within reach; Hotels, stunning beaches, sports activities, excursions, and delicious restaurants, it’s all located here.
We stayed at an all-inclusive resort right on the beach. When traveling as a family especially, booking an all-inclusive hotel has major advantages as far as value for money, comfort and accessibility go. It helps make your holiday feel effortless and more luxurious.
Hotel Recommendations In Sal
Hotel Riu Palace Santa Maria
Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort
Sol Dunas
Oasis Salinas Sea
ROBINSON CABO VERDE - Adults only
The 10 X Best Things To See And Do On Sal
Enjoy the good beach life! The beaches on the island are sensational! The water is ice cold but it is picture-perfect nonetheless. it's a good spot to work on those tan lines, go for walks, enjoy water sports activities, and go out of the water.
Living it up on the beach in Sal
Quad biking is a cool way to discover the island.
Explore Santa María ~ Stroll around Santa Maria, take in the colorful vibes, top views, and atmosphere. Have lunch or dinner in one of the beachside restaurants. Visit the pier and fisherman market close up.
Santa Maria
The beach of Santa Maria
The fishermen selling their goods right there on the pier in Santa Maria
Lunch & dinner with a VIEW!
Try kitesurfing ~ The winds can be rather strong on the island, they are not only refreshing but will also serve you well when doing water sports!
Visit Palmeira and the surrounding area
Palmeira, the capital of Sal
Catching the last seconds of the Blue Eye
Have you ever been to the Dead Sea in Israel? Here you'll find a smaller version of it called Salinas of Pedra Lume, definitely a MUST do when visiting Sal. This is a former salt mine in the crater of an extinct volcano, with therapeutic salt water. For a small fee, you can enjoy floating in the salty water and use the mud for your skin beauty treatment.
Salinas of Pedra Lume
Salinas of Pedra Lume
Sal
Visit Espargos ~ The Terra Boa Mirage will appear like a lake in the desert landscape. It's a very unique experience!
Espargos, Sal
Sal
Go diving or snorkeling in these stunning waters, you can leave directly from Santa Maria Beach.
On the pier of Santa Maria
Did you know that Cape Verde is recognized as the third most important nesting area for loggerhead turtles in the world?
Between May and October, you’ll have the opportunity to watch as baby turtles hatch and go for the sea.
Go island-hopping ~ Cape Verde is made of ten islands that are all different not just geographically but culturally as well. For example, the jungles of Santiago, Fogo’s volcano while Sao Vicente is known as the cultural heart of the country.
BONUS TIP ~ Stop by Shark Bay!
Shark Bay, Sal
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Yours,
Diti