Overview
What's included?
- Flights: return flights from Sal to São Vicente
- Transfers: return airport transfers
- Accommodation: 6 nights in Hotel Morabeza (Sal island) and 4 nights in Hotel Porto Grande (São Vicente island)
- Meals: 7 breakfasts, 3 lunches
- Activities: Tour of Sal*, Tour of Sao Vicente, Swimming with Turtles and Tour of Santo Antao (order of activities is subject to change)
- Fully qualified guides and instructors during activities
- Equipment, training, and supervision for all activities with expert local guides
*A note on flights: whilst international flights to and from Cape Verde are not included in the holiday price, our team will happily provide a quote and arrange them for you. Simply ask one of our travel experts for details of the available options for you.
*Please note: the entrance fee to Buracona, the salt flats and hire of sea shoes are not included and must be paid locally in cash. The total for this is 13 Euros per person.
From relaxing beaches to dramatic volcanoes, Cape Verde’s 10 islands offer picturesque landscapes at every turn. This trip will see you explore 3 of these islands on a 10-night adventure designed to show you the best of Cape Verde’s terrain, culture, and marine life.
Visiting Sal, Sao Vincente, and Santa Antao, we’ve included guided tours with a local expert to ensure you experience the very best of each location. During these tours, you’ll visit museums to soak up the Cape Verdean culture, wade with reef sharks at the famous shark bay, and swim with turtles in their natural habitat. And the adventure doesn’t stop there. As you explore each island, you’ll be immersed in the incredibly diverse landscape, moving from the desert to salt flats, beaches to mountains.
The beauty of this 10-night trip is that we’ve left plenty of free days to ensure you can design your dream holiday. We have a variety of optional activities in the ‘personalise’ section to suit every interest - whether you want to horseback ride on the beach, watch turtles come to shore to lay their eggs, go on a quad biking adventure, or experience a traditional Cape Verdean evening.
After each activity, you can relax in your expertly-chosen accommodation. Both hotels offer fantastic onsite facilities such as pools and restaurants but are also ideally located close to the nearby towns where local cuisine and live music awaits.
Image credits: Cape Verde Tourist Board, Hilton Hotel Cape Verde, Barracuda Tours DMC & Incoming
Key facts
Duration: | 10 nights |
Pace: | Balanced |
Dates & Prices
We include more, no hidden costs
Prices are based on 2 adults (13+) sharing a garden view room at Hotel Morabeza (Sal) and a standard double room at Hotel Porto Grande (Sao Vincent)
Prices
Next season’s dates and prices
You can make a pre-reservation to secure your holiday at this stage by paying an initial deposit of only £100pp. The provisional departure dates, prices and itineraries remain subject to change. We will contact you when the final dates, prices and itineraries are confirmed, and you will have 14 days to decide if you would like to go ahead. You will then need to pay the remainder of your deposit to confirm your booking in full. If you decide not to travel, we will refund your initial £50pp payment. Our Travel Experts will happily provide you with full terms and a complete quotation. Please note: where listed in the What’s Included section, pre-sales prices include return UK flights. Please note that the prices below are subject to change due to availability at the respective hotels; supplements may apply.
Dates | ||
---|---|---|
Tue 01 Apr 2025
to Fri 31 Oct 2025 |
Adults £ 1,755 To £ 2,085 |
Terms
For our full booking terms and conditions please click here
The Specifics
Group Size
We always try to provide an approximation of the group size you can expect to be with for the duration of each of our holidays. It may be that you are joined by others for parts of your holiday (such as transfers and particular activities) but the above number reflects those you can normally expect to be with from beginning to end. If group size is something which is particularly important to you, please speak to our Travel Experts and they can suggest the best holidays for you.
Tailor-made holiday group sizes will vary for all activities as will the group size for any additional activities you book.
Minimum and maximum age
If a specific minimum age applies to this holiday, it can be found in the Key Facts box on the holiday Overview page.
Unless otherwise stated in the in the Key Facts box on the holiday Overview page, the minimum age for participation in an Artisan holiday is typically 8 years old (there may be younger children in some destinations who have booked with other companies). If an adult-only environment is important to you, then please contact our Travel Experts and they will advise on the best dates and destinations for you. If you are looking for a holiday designed specifically for families then please see our sister company www.activitiesabroad.com
Itinerary amendments
The order of activities listed in this agenda is provided for guidance only, your final and detailed itinerary will be provided either with your final travel documents (which are uploaded into your online account around a week prior to departure) or upon arrival.
Medical History and Advice
We want our holidays to be accessible as they can be and will do our best to accommodate any special requests and requirements where possible. We have a wide range of holidays and destinations and so our travel experts will help find the best holiday for you.
In order to give us the best possible chance to do this we ask that if you or any member of your party has any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday or has any special requirements, that you tell us at the time of enquiry or booking. You must also promptly advise us if any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday develops after your booking has been confirmed. You may need to provide a doctor’s note and proof of insurance in some cases as the health and safety of our clients is absolutely paramount.
In providing this information you are allowing us to work with our expert local partners to ensure that your whole party can enjoy the holiday. By letting us know in advance we can discreetly work with you to adapt any part of the holiday which may potentially be challenging. Being able to prepare for this in advance makes an incredible difference to what we can offer and minimises any impact on your party and the rest of the group.
Unfortunately, if you choose not to share this information with us in advance then it may limit some or all of the itinerary you have booked, and we cannot be held accountable for any additional costs or missed activities resulting from this.
Insurance
Insurance is not included in your holiday, but it is a pre-requisite to travelling with us. You will need to ensure that you have cover for all the activities that you will be participating in during your holiday.
It is extremely important that you take out a suitable travel insurance policy at the time of booking. Plans do sometimes change, and you will need this policy should you need to cancel your holiday.
If you are struggling to find a suitable policy then details of our preferred provider, who will cover you for all the activities we offer, can be found on our website by clicking here. Please note that this policy is available to EU residents under the age of 75 only.
The UK Foreign Office Advice
Our clients’ safety is at the centre of everything we do, and our operations team continually assesses and monitors the destinations we feature. We carry out thorough risk assessments and work closely with all of our suppliers to continually follow best practice. For up to date travel advice the UK government offers its Travel Aware website as well as the advice detailed below.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office Advice
We receive all updates from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) with regards to travel advice and we always ensure that we follow this advice in our operations. The FCO issues travel advisories for countries based on a very wide range of factors. They may provide notification about things as simple as a football match and crowds, or they may go so far as to advise against all travel to a region. We ask all our clients to refer to the relevant Travel Advice by Country for the destinations they are visiting in order to make an informed decision on the safety of the destination based on the details provided. It also provides vital information regarding entry requirements, embassy information, local laws and customs as well as specific safety and health. Guests should take responsibility for keeping themselves up to date with this advice. Please also ensure that, if you are transiting through another country, you have read the advice and meet the entry requirements for that destination too.
The FCO travel advice is applicable to British Passport Holders. Most governments will issue their own travel advice for a region and, if you are not a UK resident then you can find some helpful links below:
Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/
New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade http://www.safetravel.govt.nz/
Canadian Consular Affairs Bureau http://voyage.gc.ca/
The U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs http://travel.state.gov/content/travel/english.html
If the FCO deems that there is an unacceptable level of risk for UK citizens then, together with the government, they may issue an advisory against all travel to a region or country. If such an advisory is published, then we will act accordingly, and this may require the cancellation, curtailment or amendment of a holiday itinerary. These decisions are made on the basis of ensuring our clients’ safety and will affect all clients on the holiday, regardless of their nationality.
If one of our local experts suggests an amendment due to a situation which develops locally then we may also take the decision to amend an itinerary appropriately.
If we have to cancel your holiday prior to departure you will be offered the option of an alternative trip (where any price difference will either be refunded to or covered by you) or a full refund of the monies paid.
If we have to curtail a holiday, then you will be refunded for any costs for the elements we have been unable to deliver, where we have been able to secure a refund from our suppliers. If we must reroute a holiday, then any basis for refund is determined on a case by case basis and dependent on whether the central holiday experience was provided or not.
Booking activities locally
Additional activities can be booked locally in almost all our destinations. However, as per our booking conditions, we cannot be held responsible for any injury or loss incurred through participation in activities which are booked at your destination outside of our holiday itinerary (see our ‘Terms and Conditions’ for further details).
When arranging any such activity please always ensure that safety is your primary concern.
In some of our destinations, you can borrow or hire equipment for use in your free time. You do so entirely at your own risk. You must ensure that you are properly prepared, have the necessary equipment and knowledge (maps, etc) and ensure that where applicable, you follow marked routes. We recommend discussing your plans with the local teams who will be able to advise on the most suitable options for you.
Always let the reception/guide know where you are planning to go and take a torch and mobile phone (with the hotel/guide’s phone number stored). It is also a good idea to leave your contact number and the time you expect to return to the hotel should the hotel need to contact you.
Brexit information for British Passport holders
For the most up to date information on how the UK’s departure from the EU may affect your holiday please click here to view our Brexit information for British Passport holders.
Flight schedule changes and connecting transportation
On your documentation, we will confirm your flight schedule. Sometimes the flight number, routing and timings might change prior to your departure. If the change is classed as a significant change then we will contact you to discuss this. Please see our booking conditions for details.
Flight schedule changes can impact on your pre and post-holiday travel arrangements if these have been booked separately to your holiday. We strongly recommend that you do not book transport (such as trains or transfers), car parking or non-connecting flights to the departure point for your holiday until you have received your final confirmed travel times when your final travel documents are issued. We are not responsible for the effect of any schedule change on your pre or post travel arrangements. We strongly recommend that you do not purchase non-flexible or non-refundable tickets to avoid cancellation and penalty charges.
Booking your own flights - cancellation disclaimer
If you have chosen to book your own flights, then you will need to wait until we confirm to you that the holiday departure has met the minimum numbers required to run (if applicable to your chosen holiday). Once the holiday is guaranteed to run, you will be informed and you can then make your arrangements.
If transfers are included in your holiday, please ensure that any potential flights will be met by our standard transfers (speak to one of our Travel Experts for advice) otherwise private transfer supplements may be applicable. Once your flights are booked, please send us a copy of your detailed flight itinerary.
Please be aware that most tickets are non-refundable in the case of cancellation. For this reason, we strongly advise you check the rules of the ticket and check the limitations of your cancellation insurance before booking. We cannot be held liable, in the unlikely eventuality that we should be forced to cancel or amend your trip, for losses incurred relating to any flight booking you have made.
Terms and Conditions
Our full booking terms and conditions can be found on our website: https://www.artisantravel.co.uk/booking-conditions
Minimum travellers 10, Maximum travellers 20
Agenda
Agenda
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DAY 1
Arrival in Sal
After arriving at the airport in Sal, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel accommodation, just a short walk from the centre of Santa Maria.
You’ll be close to many different restaurants in the area or you can try one of the four onsite restaurants - so we suggest unpacking and heading out for your first taste of Cape Verde cuisine.
Included Meals: None -
DAY 2
Free Day in Sal
Today, following breakfast, you’ll have a free day to spend as you please. We have a variety of optional activities to make your holiday extra special. Choose from adventurous excursions such as desert buggies or jet skiing to more relaxing trips including sailing or turtle watching. Simply speak to our travel advisors at the time of booking to secure your ideal activity.
Included Meals: Breakfast -
DAY 3
Full Day Tour of Sal Island
After breakfast, you’ll embark on a full-day tour to see the best of Sal Island. Your first stop is the stunning village of Murdeira Bay where you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take photos of the surrounding natural beauty. Next, you’ll visit the fishing port village of Palmeira and the famous ‘Blue eye’ in Buracona before moving on to Terra Boa to see the exceptional expanse of desert and even mirages!
From here, you’ll visit the capital of the island - Espargos - where you can visit historic sites as well as museums and galleries.
Following your time in the capital, you’ll be taken to ‘Shark Bay’ where you’ll have the unique opportunity to wade with reef sharks! After this incredible experience with the local marine life, you’ll finish your trip with an unforgettable visit to the Pedra de Lume salt flats where you can easily float in the salt lake - 26 times saltier than the seawater. Lunch in a local restaurant is also included in today’s trip.
*Please note: the entrance fee to Buracona, the salt flats and hire of sea shoes are not included and must be paid locally in cash. The total for this is 13 Euros per person.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch -
DAY 4
Flight to Sao Vicente
Today, after breakfast, you will fly to Sao Vicente to begin the next part of your island adventure. The direct flight will take approximately 50 minutes and upon arrival at the airport, you’ll be transferred to your hotel situated in the vibrant cultural capital of Mindelo.
Included Meals: Breakfast -
DAY 5
Full day visit to Santo Antao Island via Ferry
Following breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the harbour for your 50-minute ferry trip to the gorgeous island of Santo Antao. This island is known for its natural beauty, all of which you’ll get to experience as you drive along the mountain road, up 1100m high, and to the crater of Cova volcano. From here, you’ll take a short drive to Pico da Cruz where the pine forest and exceptional panoramic views of the greenest valley on the island await. After enjoying the views, the tour will take you into the municipality of Paul where you’ll visit the Grogue distillery to try the famous sugar cane rum. Lunch is also included in the Ribeira da Toree valley.
You’ll take the ferry back to Sao Vincent and be transferred to your hotel to spend the evening as you please.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch -
DAY 6
Full Day Tour of Sao Vicente and Swim with Turtles
Fill up on breakfast in the hotel before heading out for the day for a full tour of the island and an exciting swim with turtles.
Your first stop will be Fortum d’EL Rei to enjoy panoramic views of Mindelo city. You’ll then take a guided walk around the city to see several points of interest such as the market and museums.
Following your time in the city, you’ll be transferred to Monte Verde, the highest point on the island and a natural park, for awe-inspiring views. Next, you’ll visit the picturesque fishing village of Salamansa, where you’ll have the opportunity to dip in the bay and enjoy lunch before moving onto the exquisite turquoise waters of Praia Grande. Finally, you’ll stop at Magic Bay where, following a safety briefing, your experienced local guides will help you get ready for swimming with turtles in their natural habitat.
After this unforgettable experience, you’ll be transferred back to the hotel for a relaxing evening to do as you please.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch -
DAY 7
Free day on Sao Vicente
Today following breakfast you have the day free to enjoy as you please. Why not relax at the hotel and enjoy your last day on Sao Vincente.
Included Meals: Breakfast -
DAY 8
Flight to Sal
After breakfast, you’ll fly back to Sal to spend the last few days of your trip. The flight will take approximately 50 minutes and you will be transferred to your hotel.
Included Meals: Breakfast -
DAY 9
Free Day
Today you have the day completely free to spend as you please. Choose from one of our many optional activities to craft your perfect trip.
Included Meals: Breakfast -
DAY 10
Free Day
Following breakfast, you have another free day to tailor however you’d like. Our personalise activities give you plenty of choice to make your day special.
Included Meals: Breakfast -
DAY 11
Departure
Today it is unfortunately time for your Cape Verde adventure to come to an end. Following breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight home. If you have an early flight, we’ll box up breakfast for you to take with you.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation
Accommodation
Included in price
Hotel Morabeza – Sal
Nights: 1-3,8-10
With a stunning sandy beach and turquoise water just across the promenade, a relaxing pool terrace, and only a few minutes walk to Santa Maria’s town centre, the Morabeza Hotel is ideally situated for your Sal adventure.
Hotel Facilities
- A welcoming family-run atmosphere - Morabeza translates to hospitality
- Three pools for a refreshing dip
- Four fantastic restaurants
- A beach bar to soak up the sunshine and enjoy delicious food
- Two tennis courts, games room and free yoga classes available
Rooms
Facing either the garden side or the seaside, each room has a terrace or balcony to enjoy the views. All double rooms have a bathroom with shower or bathtub, hairdryer, telephone, TV, mini fridge, safe, air conditioning and ceiling fan, coffee and tea making facilities, and wireless internet.
Hotel Porto Grande - São Vicente
Nights: 4-7
Located in the heart of São Vicente’s cultural capital of Mindelo, the Hotel Porto Grande provides complete comfort and style for your stay. Enjoy both local and international food in the restaurant, relax in the pool, or take a stroll just 15 minutes to Laginha Beach.
Hotel facilities:
- Onsite pool to relax in
- Close to local shops, markets, cafes, and restaurants
- Hotel restaurant with Cape Verdean, Portuguese, or international cuisine
- Free wifi
- Beach bar, just a 10-minute walk
- Gym
Rooms
All rooms have a balcony overlooking the pool or Mindelo’s bustling central square. Each come with a double or twin bed, bathroom with shower, air conditioning, TV, hairdryer, safe, and minibar.
Personalise
Personalise this tour
Our pick
Coast to Coast Off-Road Adventure
Journey off-road on a 4x4 adventure that will help you explore the varied landscape of Sal. From volcanic formations and wetlands to ravines and beaches, this adrenaline-filled day will take you to the must-see areas of Sal including the famous magical eye, the mirages of Terra boa, and the salt flats where you’ll have the chance to float. You’ll also visit shark bay to wade with the reef sharks and kite beach before returning back to your hotel.
Please note: 5€ entrance fee to the salt flats, 1€ freshwater shower at Sal Flats and 3€ ecological tax for the visit to Buracona are not included in the price and will need to be paid cash locally.
Available: Monday, Tuesday and Thursday at 09:00
Duration: approximately 8 hours
Other options
Activities
Traditional Cape Verdean Evening
Enjoy a traditional Cape Verdean evening with a night of local delicacies, music, and dancing.
You’ll arrive at one of the best local restaurants on the island and be greeted with a welcome drink. For dinner, you have a choice of typical Cape Verdean specialties, such as the ‘Catchupa’, a tasty rich stew. As you enjoy the delicious food, you’ll watch a show of soft live music - the famous “Mornas” and “Coladeras”. Once you’ve finished, you can watch the Cape Verdean dances from the island and even join in and learn!
Available: daily
Duration: approximately 3 hours
Desert Buggy Adventure
Venture into the desert for an unforgettable buggy adventure. Choose from a 2 hour nighttime excursion where you’ll use special lights to navigate or a daytime trip either 2 hours or 4 hours.
You’ll visit the famous Kite Beach and travel from here to Serra Negra, one of the main spots on the island for Turtle nesting. If you choose the 4-hour trip, you’ll also head north to shark bay, the salt flats, see the magic eye, and more!
Duration: various available
There are a range of durations to choose from:
2 hours (night time) - £70per person (based on two sharing)
Available: everyday except Sunday at 20:00
2 hours - £55 per person (based on two sharing)
Available: everyday except Sunday at 14:00 and 16:00
4 hours - £102 per person (based on two sharing)
Available: everyday except Sunday at 09:00
Please note: the driver of a desert buggy must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid drivers license. Single driver supplement applies.
Zipline
Journey to the top of the Serra Negra mountain for a ziplining experience you’ll never forget. After being transferred, you’ll walk 10-15 minutes to reach the top of the mountain with exceptional views along the way. Once at the top, you’ll meet with the crew who will get you ready with all the equipment you need and give you a safety briefing. Then it’s time to start your flight ziplining down the mountain - one of the most unique ways to experience the beautiful landscape!
Available: daily
Segway Tour
Explore Santa Maria the eco way. This segway adventure will take you through the village and onto Sal’s most beautiful beach. Choose from a 45-minute or 1.5-hour tour.
Available: everyday except Sunday at 09:00 and 15:00
Duration: various available
There are a range of durations to choose from:
45 minutes - £30 per person
1.5 hours - £50 per person
Sailing
Sail along the west coast of Sal and if conditions allow, you can snorkel along the coast or in the Santa Maria bay. While out at sea, you’ll have the opportunity to look for the wildlife in the area including whales, dolphins, flying fish, and turtles. You can also take part in fishing if conditions allow. Choose from a full-day or half-day excursion to see the island from this unique perspective. During the full-day trip, you’ll enjoy a fresh lunch on board as well as snacks and a free bar.
Duration: various available
There are a range of durations to choose from:
Half day (3 hours) - £55 per person
Available: daily at 09:00 and 14:00
Full day (6 hours) - £120 per person
Available: daily at 10:00
Half-day Catamaran
Enjoy the views of Sal Island from the ocean on this relaxing catamaran sailing experience. You’ll sail along the coast from Palmeria, stopping at Murdeira Bay where you can snorkel, swim, fish, or simply relax on board. During the trip, the crew will provide a fun entertainment programme as you look out for turtles (June-September) or whales (February-March).
Available: Monday and Friday at 10:00 and Saturday at 13:30
Duration: approximately 3 hours
Horseback Riding
Explore Cape Verde on horseback, for a unique way to enjoy the natural landscape. Choose from a 1 hour or 2 hour option and ride over the salt flats and sandy beaches. Experienced riders will also get the opportunity to gallop through the surf.
Duration: various available
There are a range of durations to choose from:
1 hour (trial for beginners) - £60 per person. Available: Monday, Wednesday and Friday
1 hour (for experienced riders) - £70 per person. Available: Everyday except Sunday
2 hour (trial for beginners) - £80 per person. Available: Everyday except Sunday
Jet Skiing
Speed across the water on this exciting jet ski tour. Accompanied by your local guide, you’ll make your way across the water to explore the beautiful coastline.
Available: Monday to Saturday
Duration: various available
There are a range of durations to choose from:
30 minutes - £35 per person (based on two sharing)
1 hour - £60 per person (based on two sharing)
2 hours - £100per person (based on two sharing)
Please note: the driver of a jet ski must be at least 16 years old. Single driver supplement applies.
Snorkelling by Boat
Access some of the best snorkelling spots on the island with this guided tour. You’ll be provided with all the equipment you need as your guide gives you a detailed briefing including what marine flora and fauna to look out for. Not suitable for non-swimmers.
Available: everyday except Saturdays at 09:30 and 14:30 only
Duration: approximately 1 hour
Turtle Watching
Experience the true wonder of nature on this turtle-watching experience. You’ll see loggerhead turtles in their natural habitat as they make their way up the sand to nest and lay their eggs on protected beaches.
Your local guide will pick you up and transfer you approximately 20 minutes to the beach where you’ll hear the rules for turtle watching to avoid disturbing this beautiful process.
Available: everyday except Wednesday at 20:00 (July and August only)
Duration: approximately 2 hours
Project Turtle Tracker
Witness the wonder of the wild on this nighttime turtle nesting experience. You’ll be transferred by pick-up truck for approximately 15 minutes to one of the best turtle-nesting beaches on the island. You will be welcomed into the glamping tent for tea and coffee and a comprehensive introduction. The briefing will tell you all about the biology of sea turtles and the safeguarding work being done on the Cape Verde islands. You’ll also learn about the rules to follow to ensure you don’t disturb the turtles as they come up to nest.
After the talk, you’ll head out under the starry night sky to start your search for the nesting turtles - an unforgettable experience in nature! As a souvenir, you’ll be sent a video with details from the adventure via email.
Available: daily at 20:00 and 21:00 (July and August only)
Duration: approximately 3 hours
Beginner Kitesurfing Lesson
Cape Verde is a famed kitesurfing destination, making it the perfect place for a beginner lesson on your holiday. You’ll be transferred to the Mitu Monteiro (2008 World Kite Surfing Champion) & Jo Kitesurf Centre to learn Kite Surfing with the best teachers on the island.
Duration: approximately 3 hours
Quad Biking
Discover the hidden beauty of the south on this 4x4 adventure. Riding on your powerful 500cc quad bikes, you’ll be able to explore areas you wouldn’t be able to via a car.
There are a range of durations to choose from:
2 hours - £45 per person (based on two sharing). Available every day except Sunday at 10:00, 14:00 and 16:00
4 hours - £74 per person (based on two sharing). Available everyday except Sunday at 09:00 and 14:00
Please note: the driver of a quadbike must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid drivers license. Single driver supplement applies.