Cape Verde: The Royal Routes of Santiago Island – 4 Days (History & Culture)

Day 1: Arrival – Airport Transfer (Praia Airport to Hotel in Praia)

After disembarking, be welcomed by Your travel representative who will be waiting for you at Nelson Mandela International Airport with a sign displaying your name, as informed by you. Then, enjoy a private transfer from the airport to your accommodation. Our team will take you from door to door with complete security and professionalism, providing all relevant information about your stay. Overnight in Praia.

🏚️ Hotel Option: Casa Sodade*** in Praia or similar.

Day 2: Praia City Tour, Highlights of Cidade Velha

After a tasty breakfast, be picked up from your accommodation and then head towards Dona Maria Pia Lighthouse. Take stunning pictures of the Lighthouse surrounded by the large cannons installed to protect the island from the attack of pirates. Make your way to the historical center of Plateau and take a walking tour throughout the Jaime Mota Military Barracks, the Presidential Palace and The Alexandre Albuquerque Main Square, and the colorful Municipal Market. Next, explore the largest souvenir market to be found in Cape Verde, the Sucupira Market followed by a scenic drive to Cidade Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, visit all its highlights such as the Royal Fortress of São Filipe, the ruins of the first sub-Saharan African Cathedral, the fishermen’s bay, the old slave market in Pelourinho, the famous Rua das Bananas with its traditional houses, Nossa Senhora do Rosário church and, finally, the Convent of São Francisco. At lunch, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the city, and taste local delights in a typical restaurant right on the seafront. The tour concludes with a drop-off at your hotel. Overnight in Praia.
DURATION: Every day, from 9 am to 3 pm (6 hours)

🏚️ Hotel Option: Casa Sodade*** in Praia or similar.

Day 3: Full-Day Santiago Island Tour & Tarrafal Beach

Get picked up at your hotel in Praia, then depart toward the interior of the island. Make your first stop at Mrs. Luisa’s house. There, sample cuscus (a traditional cake made from corn flour) and fidjós (fried banana mixed with wheat), the typical breakfast for Cape Verdean families. After breakfast, continue to the city of Assomada. Visit its famous market and admire the vibrant colors of the local fruits and vegetables. Move on to the Serra Malagueta natural park and marvel at the incredible views from 1000 meters (3,280 feet) above sea level. Next, discover Santiago’s most beautiful beach at Tarrafal, known for its white sand and crystal-clear waters. Take a break for lunch (at your own expense), then return along the east coast of the island. Visit the Rabelados religious community, the only community that still lives in thatched houses and preserves the oldest customs and beliefs of Cape Verde. The tour concludes with a drop-off at your accommodation in Praia.
DURATION: Every day from 9 am to 5 pm (8 hours)

🏚️ Hotel Option: Casa Sodade*** in Praia or similar.

Day 4: Praia Airport & Goodbye Cape Verde

Start your last day with a delicious breakfast at your accommodation and then enjoy your free time according to the flight schedules. Check out from the accommodation in Praia and at agreed time be picked up and transferred to Nelson Mandela international airport. Catch your international flight back home and say goodbye to “La Morabeza Crioula”.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION / KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

• This is an open group (maximum 6 travelers) and customizable Expedition.
• The rum production season runs from January 1 st to May 31st
• Please bring a passport, sandals/flip flops, comfortable shoes, a towel, a hat, swimwear, and sunscreen;
• Lunch and diner include fish, meat or main dish + dessert + water. Vegetarian food is available upon request.
  We do not include all meals in the package to make your trip more flexible. Take this opportunity to choose between the restaurants near your accommodation and try Cape Verdean cuisine according to your preference. Your travel representative will be delighted to help if needed.
• Hotel check-in starts from 14h00 / Hotel check-out time: 12h00
• Printed or electronic vouchers requested.
• All tours can be modified/customized upon request.
• A small amount of walking is involved
• Type of vehicle: car, minivan, Pick up 4×4 or Bus
• For groups with less than 4 travelers, the bilingual driver himself may be the guide.