Full excursion around the island of Santiago

Explore the island of Santiago in its entirety on this full-day excursion by car, designed for those who want to experience the island's natural, cultural, and historical contrasts in a single day.

1- Your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Praia or from the cruise port and give you a warm welcome. The excursion begins with a scenic drive through the interior of the island of Santiago, passing through natural landscapes and traditional villages.
Along the way, the guide will share stories about the island, its traditions, and the daily life of the local population, providing an authentic insight into the culture and life in Santiago.

2- Panoramic Observation Decks - Picos Observation Deck
Strategic stops at natural observation decks, from where you can admire the intense blue of the Atlantic Ocean and the island's wild landscape.

3- Assomada – Market and city centre
Visit to the second-largest city on the island and the main shopping centre. Explore the famous local market (on Wednesdays and Saturdays), the pedestrian street and the central church, experiencing the rhythm of Cape Verdean life up close. (The market operates normally on weekdays, except on Sundays when it is completely closed; on other days, it is very busy).

4- Visit to the largest tree in Cape Verde - Poilão Tree
The Poilão de Boa Entrada is a giant tree (a Ficus sycomorus) that is hundreds of years old. It is located in the town of Boa Entrada, in Assomada. It is considered a cultural and spiritual symbol. Take advantage of the moment to get in touch with the local nature, surrounded by trees.

5- Serra Malagueta – Natural Park
Stop at one of the most important natural parks in Santiago, located at high altitude. Enjoy panoramic views of green mountains, deep valleys, and great photo opportunities.

6- Tarrafal – Beach and coastal village
Free time in the charming village of Tarrafal. Relax on the white-sand beach, swim in calm waters, go quad biking, or take the opportunity to have lunch at a local restaurant (lunch not included / the guide will recommend a good restaurant to sample the local food).

7- Traditional Villages and Local Communities
During the route, you will pass through rural villages and fishing areas, learning more about the customs, traditions, and daily life of the local population.

8- Banana Plantations – East Coast
A tour along the east coast of the island, passing by the largest banana plantation in Cape Verde, as well as extensive coconut groves and small farming communities.

This experience offers a perfect combination of nature, culture, beaches and authentic landscapes, ideal for first-time visitors to Santiago.

Departure: Hotel, accommodation, beach, or cruise port