Praia Guide

Island Day Trips from Praia: Discover Cape Verde

Explore the diverse islands of Cape Verde with convenient day trips departing from Praia, offering a glimpse into unique landscapes and vibrant cultures.

18+ tours
From $$50
8-10 hours

Praia, the bustling capital of Cape Verde, serves as an ideal launchpad for exploring the archipelago's distinct island personalities. While Santiago itself offers rich history and natural beauty, venturing beyond its shores on an island day trip reveals the true diversity of this Atlantic nation. These excursions are designed for travelers seeking to maximize their time, offering efficient and curated experiences that highlight the unique charm of neighboring islands, from the volcanic grandeur of Fogo to the sandy vistas of Sal or Boa Vista. You'll find opportunities to immerse yourself in local life, witness breathtaking natural phenomena, and understand the distinct cultural tapestries woven across these islands, all manageable within a single day. Island day trips from Praia typically involve a combination of scenic flights or ferry journeys, followed by guided exploration of key attractions. Expect to encounter landscapes vastly different from one island to the next. On Fogo, the active volcano dominates the scenery, offering a chance to see volcanic ash fields and lava flows, while islands like Sal and Boa Vista are renowned for their pristine beaches, salt flats, and opportunities for water-based activities. These tours are carefully planned to provide a comprehensive yet concise experience, ensuring you get a significant taste of each destination's essence without needing extended stays. They are perfect for those with limited time who want to experience the broader appeal of Cape Verde's islands, showcasing the geological wonders and cultural nuances that make each isle special.

Featured Island Day Trips from Praia Tours

Discover our top picks for island day trips from praia in Praia

From Praia: Discover Santiago Island in 1 Day
From $77.09
Free Cancellation

This tour was created for travelers with a short stay on the island, and seeks to maximize the places to visit on the island in a day trip, a mix of history, gastronomy, culture, and beautiful landscapes of the island's interior with breathtaking valleys and mountains and white sandy beaches.

4.8(57)
8h
View Details
From Faro: Boat trip to Benagil Cave & Arches of Praia da Marinha
From $83.02
Free Cancellation

Hello, everyone! We start our tour at the meeting point in front of Faro Train Station. Then we go towards Benagil on our air-conditioned Van. The boat tour starts along the Benagil Coast towards Praia da Marinha. We will be visiting the Caves and surrounding cliffs. With this scenario photos and videos are simply amazing and you will have the opportunity to keep fantastic memories. Itinerary includes the Benagil Cave, Pirates Cave, Crocodile Cave, Daws Cave and the view of the arches and cliffs of Praia da Marinha. The cliffs and Praia da Marinha are one of the 40 most beautiful beaches in the world! Included in the Michelin guide. Return to Benagil. We will take a 10 min. drive on our Van towards de N. Senhora da Rocha. We can have some free time on the beach. Enjoy snorkeling and relax in the shade of a parasol provided by us. Finally, visit the chapel of Senhora da Rocha chapel, an ancient building perched on a cliff! A rare beauty surrounded by picturesque natural scenery.

4.7(72)
5h
View Details
Santiago Island: Best of Praia & Cidade Velha Tour, a World Heritage Site
From $69.97
Free Cancellation

Explore Praia on a guided tour of the Municipal Market and the city major historical sites. Visit Cidade Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and learn about the history of slavery in the first city built by Europeans in sub-Saharan Africa.

4.9(19)
4h
View Details
BEACH TOUR PRAIA DO ROSA, IMBITUBA AND GAROPABA - 10 Beaches
From $53.35
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Praia do Rosa is considered an international destination, being part of the select group of the most beautiful bays in the world! This paradise is located in Imbituba, National Capital of Right Whale, where the harmony between Man and nature allows the preservation of beautiful beaches and breathtaking landscapes. For those staying in Praia do Rosa, come on this itinerary to discover all the beauty of Imbituba and Garopaba, where an experienced guide will take you to know more about our beautiful paradise. We can do the adapted tour on different beaches from the ones where you are staying. Consult us for information and itineraries scheduled for the week!

5.0(4)
10h
View Details
Santiago Island: Private Airport Transfer to Praia or Vice Versa
From $26.68
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Enjoy a high-quality private transfer from Praia Airport to your accommodation in the city, including free and unlimited waiting time. Our professional driver will take you from door to door with complete security.

5.0(3)
15 min
View Details
Private Tour to Praia do Forte and Praia de Guarajuba from Salvador
From $120
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

A trip to Salvador of Bahia wouldn't be complete without a visit to the stunning coconut coastline of Praia do Forte in Bahia. Take a private ride into the tropical waters, splash in the deep with the fishes and plan your future in paradise on a secluded Brazilian beach, see the turtles enjoy the greatest area of Bahia State.

4.5(8)
8h
View Details
Praia : Day Trip for Cruise Passengers
From $94.88
Free CancellationNew

If you visit Santiago Island on a cruise ship (Aida, tui Meinshiff Visits, Europa 2, MsN), and have a day available, then this day trip is perfect. It refers to a one-day excursion across the island and offers a perfect combination of the best sights and attractions, such as the capital Praia, the markets of Assomada, the Serra Malagueta Natural Park, the beach of Tarrafal, and the east coast as well as, important information about the history of people, their culture, fauna and flora, land and people, gastronomy and scenery.

3.3(3)
6h
View Details
Full Day Tour to Praia da Lagoinha from Fortaleza
From $45.73
Free Cancellation

Discover the serene beauty of Lagoinha, Ceará - an inviting paradise for travelers in search of sunny and refreshing days away from the hustle and bustle of northeastern Brazil. On the golden sands of this Ceará beach, tranquility embraces visitors as they marvel at the breathtaking landscapes - freshwater lagoons, majestic cliffs, swaying coconut groves and a dazzling green sea. Lagoinha, one of the jewels of Brazil, is a charming district belonging to the municipality of Paraipaba, located in the western part of Ceará, towards Jericoacoara. In this serene haven, local businesses close for lunch, and serenity reigns like a queen. So, if you are planning your next vacation trip to Fortaleza, don't miss the opportunity to explore the wonders of Lagoinha. She awaits you with open arms, ready to provide you with a memorable and invigorating experience.

4.0(5)
9h
View Details
Praia: Guided Historic Walking Tour & Lunch with Locals
From $88.95
Free Cancellation

Discover Praia's historic center and its wonderful colonial architecture and learn the local history with a local tour guide. Visit local markets and and refresh yourself with local flavors in a restaurant overlooking the sea.

4.5(8)
3h
View Details
Private Tour in Praia, Cape Verde
From $161.29
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

You will have an incredible day where you can refresh yourself while discovering places that will surprise your eyes. In the morning, you will be on a boat to discover one of the 7 wonders of Santiago Island. During the afternoon you can relax in the natural pool and on the long beach of fine black sand at Ribeira das Pratas.

4.7(7)
7h
View Details
Private Coconut Coast & Praia do Forte Tour - from Salvador
From $145
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Escape Salvador on a relaxing tour along the Costa dos Coqueiros - the Coconut Coast - along Bahia's northern coast. Enjoy the coastal ride and be soothed by the calming sound of waves and the gentle swaying of palm trees. On this private tour I will take you to discover the beautiful coast and its small villages. You will also learn more about 40 years old and successful Tamar Project protecting sea turtles from extinction. We will visit the villages of Guarajuba and Praia do Forte and enjoy a leisurely lunch (not included) and a nice stroll in the village of Praia do Forte, that is full of beautiful vacation homes, hotels, resorts, shops, bars, and first-rate restaurants, making it one of the most coveted vacation places in Brazil. Join me and let's take a leisurely trip along the beautiful coast of Bahia!

5.0(2)
8h
View Details
Salvador Airport (SSA) to Praia do Forte-Arrival Private Transfer
From $54.55
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Book your Private Arrival Transfer from Salvador de Bahia Airport (SSA) to Praia do Forte hotels. Don't go through all the hassle of waiting in a long taxi or shared shuttle queues and use our private, door to door airport transfer. We will contact you immediately after your booking to confirm it and will request any missed details of your trip if any. One day before the trip, you will receive the phone number of your driver for your convenience. Your driver will be waiting for you at a scheduled time and you will travel comfortably to your destination. • Meeting with a Nameplate • No Hidden Charges • Door-to-door Service

1h
View Details
Sintra All Palaces: Aguda, Azenhas do Mar and Praia da Maçã
From $105.55
Free Cancellation

We are committed to offering travel experiences that meet the highest quality standards required by Viator. The quality of our products is assessed from the moment travelers discover our tours until the final review. Every detail of our listings is carefully crafted to ensure that information is accurate, clear, and up-to-date, providing a seamless booking experience. Our tours are continually evaluated to maintain a **Good** level, ensuring they remain visible on the site. However, we strive to achieve the **Excellent** level, which highlights our commitment to quality and awards us the Viator excellence badge. To do this, we follow Viator's strict guidelines, constantly refining and improving our product listings to optimize performance. Our goal is to provide a flawless travel experience, from the planning phase, through booking, to the final experience and customer review. This ensures that our travelers enjoy an unforgettable journey.

5.0(21)
8h
View Details
Walking Tour Ribeira Funda - Praia da Viola
From $106.74
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

The walking starts in an opened area, turning into a path with dense vegetation, mostly composed by Australian Cheesewood and Ginger Lilys . The trail then leads us to some old water mills that were once used in the confection of bread and passing by various streams until we reach a viewpoint, from where we can see our next stop: Praia da Viola beach, a small tranquil beach with rough sand , flanked by a cliff with several water springs .Afterwards we are going through a trail that takes us to the end of the tour, in the small parish of Maia. Some parts are very narrow and very steep, and might also be slippery. On the return to Ponta Delgada, there is still time to stop at the oldest tea factory of São Miguel, Gorreana tea factory for the tea tasting and stopping in Caldeira Velha, where it’s possible to have a bath in the relaxing hot waters. Back on the road, after a brief drive in the south coast, the activity ends with the arrival in Ponta Delgada.

7h
View Details
From Praia: Full-day Private and Guided Maio Island Tour
From $118.6
Free Cancellation

Embark on a beautiful two-hour ferry trip from Santiago Island. Discover the lesser-known paradise of Cape Verde, Maio Island. Explore São José Fortress, agricultural and fishing areas, sand dunes, and the Handcraft Center.

14h
View Details

Ready to Explore Praia?

Browse all available tours and activities with instant booking & best price guarantee

Why Choose Island Day Trips from Praia in Praia?

Island Hopping Convenience

Experience multiple islands without the need for overnight stays, maximizing your time in Cape Verde.

Diverse Landscapes

From volcanic terrains to pristine beaches, these trips showcase the varied natural beauty of the Cape Verde archipelago.

Local Insights

Benefit from knowledgeable guides who share cultural history and local perspectives on each island visited.

Photographic Opportunities

Capture stunning views of volcanoes, unique coastlines, and vibrant island life.

Culinary Experiences

Many tours include opportunities to sample local cuisine and beverages, offering a taste of island flavors.

Eco-Friendly Exploration

Discover the natural wonders of Cape Verde responsibly with tours that often emphasize conservation and respect for the environment.

Types of Island Day Trips from Praia in Praia

Volcano & Nature Tours

Focus on the dramatic landscapes of volcanic islands like Fogo. These tours often include visits to active or dormant volcano craters, lava fields, and scenic viewpoints, offering a raw look at geological forces at play.

Volcano crater hikesLava field explorationGeological explanationsScenic mountain drivesLocal village visits

Beach & Water Activity Tours

These excursions typically head to islands famous for their beaches, such as Sal or Boa Vista. Activities can include swimming, snorkeling, exploring sand dunes, and visiting salt lakes or unique coastal formations. They are ideal for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts.

Beach timeSnorkeling and diving opportunitiesSalt flat excursionsDune buggy ridesCoastal exploration

Cultural & City Exploration Tours

While often combined with nature, some tours delve deeper into the cultural heart of neighboring islands. This might involve exploring historic towns, visiting local markets, interacting with artisans, and learning about the unique traditions and music of each island.

Historic town walksLocal market visitsArtisan workshopsCultural presentationsTraditional music experiences

Island Hopping Packages

These comprehensive day trips are designed for maximum impact, often involving flights to cover greater distances. They pack in a variety of sights and activities, providing a well-rounded introduction to a specific island or even a taste of two in one day.

Flight or fast ferry includedMulti-stop itinerariesKey landmark visitsLunch includedExpert guide service

What to Expect on Island Day Trips from Praia Tours

Duration

Most island day trips from Praia are full-day excursions, typically lasting between 8 to 10 hours, factoring in travel time to and from the airport or port.

Weather

Cape Verde enjoys a warm climate year-round. Expect sunny conditions with temperatures averaging 25-30°C (77-86°F). Light clothing, sun protection, and a hat are essential.

Group Size

Tours vary. Some offer intimate small-group experiences (6-12 people), while others are larger coach tours (20-40 people). Private options are also frequently available for a more personalized experience.

What's Included

Inclusions often cover transport on the destination island, guided tours, and sometimes lunch or a welcome drink. Flights or ferry tickets between islands are usually specified and can be an additional cost or included in premium packages.

Meeting Point

Most tours have a designated meeting point in Praia, often near your accommodation or a central landmark. Pick-up services from hotels in Praia are common. Specific details are provided upon booking.

Costs

Prices can range from $50 for shorter, local island excursions to $300-$500+ for trips involving flights to distant islands like Fogo or Sal. This usually includes transfers, guided services, and sometimes meals.

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Book flights or ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak season, as availability can be limited.

2

Pack light but include essentials: sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, and a light jacket for evenings or higher altitudes.

3

Carry some local currency (Cape Verdean Escudo - CVE) for small purchases, tips, or optional activities not covered by the tour.

4

Stay hydrated; bottled water is recommended. Many tours will provide water, but it's good to be prepared.

5

Familiarize yourself with basic Portuguese phrases or Kriolu, although English is often spoken by guides on popular tours.

6

Be ready for early starts, as the best island day trips require maximizing daylight hours.

7

Check the visa requirements for any nationalities visiting Cape Verde, although most European and North American tourists get a visa on arrival or can pre-register online.

8

Always confirm the exact itinerary and what is included before booking to avoid surprises.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:Can I really visit another island and return to Praia in a single day?

A: Yes, for islands like Fogo, this is achievable via a short flight. For more distant islands like Sal or Boa Vista, it's a long day involving early flights and late returns, but definitely feasible and popular for those wanting a taste of different environments.

Q:What's the best island to visit on a day trip from Praia?

A: It depends on your interests! Fogo is incredible for its active volcano and unique volcanic landscapes. Sal offers iconic salt flats and beautiful beaches. Boa Vista is known for its expansive dunes and turtle nesting sites (seasonal). Consider what kind of scenery and activities appeal most to you.

Q:Are meals and drinks typically included in island day trips?

A: Some full-day tours will include lunch, often a taste of local cuisine. Drinks might be included or available for purchase. It's always best to check the specific inclusions listed for each tour you're considering.

Q:What should I wear for a day trip to Fogo?

A: For Fogo, wear sturdy walking shoes as you'll be exploring volcanic terrain. Layers are recommended, as the volcano can be cooler than the coast. Bring sun protection and a face covering if you plan to get close to volcanic ash areas.

Q:Is it safe to take day trips from Praia?

A: Yes, tours are operated by experienced local guides who prioritize safety. Common sense precautions apply, such as staying with your group and following guide instructions, especially in natural environments.

Q:What if the weather is bad?

A: In rare cases of adverse weather that make travel unsafe (e.g., strong winds affecting flights), tours may be rescheduled or cancelled. Operators will typically offer alternatives or refunds, so it's good to understand their cancellation policy.

Q:Can I book a private island day trip?

A: Absolutely. Many operators offer private tours which allow for a more customized itinerary, flexible timing, and a more personal experience, often at a higher cost.

Q:How far in advance should I book my island day trip?

A: It's advisable to book popular day trips, especially those involving flights, at least a few weeks in advance, particularly during peak travel seasons, to secure your spot.

Don't Miss the Perfect Praia Experience

Book your island day trips from praia today - 18+ tours with instant confirmation & best price guarantee!

Why Visit Praia?

Experience vibrant African and Portuguese influences on this unique Atlantic island.

Discover the colorful architecture and lively atmosphere of Cape Verde's capital city.

Enjoy a laid-back island vibe with friendly locals and delicious Creole cuisine.

Explore historical landmarks that tell the story of Cape Verde's rich past.

Immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of morna music echoing through the streets.

Praia offers an authentic slice of island life, far from the typical tourist trail.

Best Time to Visit

Weather

Praia boasts a semi-arid climate, characterized by warm temperatures year-round and low rainfall. The dry season, influenced by trade winds, brings a pleasant warmth, while the short wet season can see occasional showers. Expect consistent sunshine and a gentle sea breeze throughout much of the year.

Best Months

The best months to visit Praia are generally from November to June, offering the most pleasant weather with lower humidity and minimal rain, perfect for exploring the city and its surroundings.

Peak Season

The peak season in Praia typically runs from December to February, coinciding with cooler, drier weather and coinciding with European holidays. Expect more tourists and potentially higher prices for accommodation during this vibrant period.

Off Season

The off-season, from July to October, can be hotter and more humid with a chance of occasional rain showers. However, this period offers fewer crowds and often better deals on flights and lodging in Praia.

Plan Your Praia Trip

Transportation Tips

Getting around Praia is an adventure in itself. 'Aluguers', shared minibuses, are the most common and affordable way to navigate the city, running on fixed routes. Taxis are also readily available for more direct trips, though agree on the fare beforehand. For exploring further afield or for more flexibility, renting a car is an option. Walking is feasible within specific neighborhoods like the Plateau, offering a more intimate feel for discovering Praia's charm. Be prepared for hills and sometimes uneven sidewalks when getting around Praia on foot.

Car Rental Deals in Praia

Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.

Where to Stay

Find the perfect accommodation for your Praia adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.

Best Hotel Deals in Praia

Discover top-rated hotels with exclusive rates and special offers on Trivago USA.

Ready to Explore Praia?

Discover the best tours and activities in Praia with AI-powered recommendations tailored just for you.