From Praia: Cidade Velha, Tarrafal & East Side Island Tour
São Domingos District, Cape Verde
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cidade Velha on a guided tour from Praia. Drive through the Serra Malagueta Natural Park and enjoy the most beautiful beach on the island, Tarrafal Beach.
City and nature tour with local cuisine workshop in Santiago Island, Cape Verde
This full-day tour explores Cidade Velha with a local guide, includes a cooking workshop, and visits Tarrafal Beach, suitable for group or private travelers.
Highlights
- Explore Cidade Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a local guide
- Meet a local family and taste traditional Cape Verdean Cuscuz
- Relax at Tarrafal Beach on Santiago Island
- Choose between shared group or private tour options
Description
The tour starts with pickup from your accommodation and takes you to Cidade Velha. You’ll join a guided walking tour visiting São Filipe Fortress, the former slave market, and Banana Street with its thatched houses.
Next, you visit a local family to prepare and taste Cape Verdean Cuscuz, a traditional corn flour cake. After the cooking workshop, travel through the island’s mountains with photo stops at Picos, Assomada, and Serra Malagueta Natural Park, reaching viewpoints at 1,000 meters above sea level.
The final stop is Tarrafal Beach, where you can swim and relax surrounded by hills and palm trees. Lunch is served here (not included), followed by a drive along the east coast. If available and at your own expense, refresh with fresh coconut water at the country’s largest plantation. The tour ends with drop-off at your accommodation.
Includes
- Pickup and drop-off from accommodations in Praia or Cidade Velha
- Experienced tour guide
- Transportation during the tour
- Cuscuz and Fidjós cooking workshop
- Liability insurance
Excludes
- Lunch
- Entrance fee (€5 for São Filipe Fortress)
Important Information
- São Filipe Fortress is closed on public holidays
- Assomada Market visit included only on Wednesdays and Saturdays
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
For the best experience, bring comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, and sunscreen. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for private tours and market visit days.
