Family-friendly off-road buggy tour of northern Boa Vista

Boa Vista Horse Riding Experience

Galloping along the golden sands of Boa Vista's beaches is as exhilarating as it gets. You can choose from an hour-long horse ride for beginners, or a 90-minute adventure for intermediates. It's an experience that gets you back in touch with nature the environmentally-friendly way.

Half-day southern Boa Vista 4x4 tour with Viana Desert

This fun-filled tour gives you the chance to delve into some of Boa Vista's top spots. Spend a morning exploring inland villages and roaming the Viana desert in a 4x4, before ending up on one of the island's most pretty beaches. Roberto, one of our local guides, says, ‘It probably wasn't their intention but the souvenir shops of Povoação Velha and Rabil have become unwitting social media stars. Their colourful, kitsch and carefree displays are massive Instagram hits.'This morning-long adventure kicks off with a visit to Rabil – Boa Vista's second-largest town. From its vibrant streets to traditional architecture, the town reflects the island's tough yet resilient spirit. Here, you'll visit a ceramic factory, where you'll see the handiwork of local artisans and might be able to grab yourself a souvenir of local pottery. You'll also get to taste Cape Verde's national dish, catchupa, a rich stew of corn, beans, pork and vegetables – through ingredients change, not just from island to island or village to village, but house to house.Next, hold on tight as you zoom through the dusty landscape of the Viana desert. Our next stop is Povoação Velha, the oldest settlement on the island. Wander its rustic streets before kicking back on the 11km-long Santa Monica beach. Its sugar-white sand contrasts against fluorescent blue waters like an image from a postcard. If you're an adventure seeker, you can even try your hand at sandboarding.

Catamaran Cruise with Lunch at beach restaurant

You'll see Boa Vista's coastal beauty from a new perspective on this morning catamaran cruise - perfect for everyone, including families. Admire the shore from your spot on deck before you disembark for a beachside lunch and time to relax. Your day begins with a convenient pick-up from your hotel, from where you'll be whisked away to the harbour where your luxury catamaran, SODADE II, awaits. As one of our seasoned local guides puts it, "SODADE II is designed for comfort and relaxation, offering plenty of shaded areas and nets for sunbathing - the ideal setting for families and anyone seeking a blissful day out at sea."You'll set sail around the island of Boa Vista and the islet of Sal Rei, immersing yourself in views of clear waters and coastal landscapes. Indulge in tempting snacks and drinks onboard, and then it's time to drop anchor for a bit of fun in the sun - dive into the waves or simply relax on the nets, basking in the sunshine.The excitement continues when you step ashore to be transferred to the beach restaurant where a tasty lunch awaits. Savour local cuisine and cool off with a drink, all while enjoying the sound of the waves and the beachside panorama. Spend the rest of your afternoon unwinding on the sandy shores, swimming in the sea or soaking up the sun. Finally, end your day with a smooth transfer back to your hotel.

Boa Vista family catamaran cruise

Set sail on a journey around Boa Vista and Sal Rei on this half-day catamaran cruise. You'll be welcomed on board by your friendly crew with a quick safety briefing, before casting off along the coast. Joao, our expert local guide, says “the beauty of these islands is best seen from the deck of a catamaran as you drift over the waves – it's like stepping into a postcard."As we cruise along this stretch of sea, you'll get a front-row view of the coastal landscapes – think endless golden beaches and chunky rock formations jutting out of the sea. You'll get a good look at Sal Rei, too, which means Salt King in Portuguese, a nod to its history of salt production. It's home to the Fort of the Duke of Braganca, originally built to fend off pirates. This fort stands out against the ocean backdrop, making it easy to spot as you sail by.On board, you'll find a selection of snacks and drinks. Whether you fancy sipping on a cool beverage or nibbling on tasty treats, you'll be perfectly pampered as you cruise. Then, you'll drop anchor for a swim in the sea – ideal if you fancy cooling off. Alternatively, you can relax on the nets near the front of the catamaran and catch some rays.

Boa Vista adults-only catamaran cruise

Set sail on this adults-only, half-day catamaran cruise around Boa Vista and the islet of Sal Rei. You'll kick things off with a safety briefing from your crew, before heading out along Boa Vista's coastline. Miguel, our expert local guide says “as you cruise around Boa Vista and Sal Rei, you'll get an eyeful of the kind of views that never get old – there are miles of golden beaches and intriguing rock formations all along the coast.”Drifting by the islands, you'll be treated to endless coastal views. As you glide past Sal Rei, keep an eye out for the Fort of the Duke of Braganca– this place was originally built to defend the area against pirates. Sal Rei was also an epicentre for salt production. In fact, the place is called Salt King in Portuguese to reflect this deep-rooted history.On board, you'll have plenty to keep your energy levels up, with all-inclusive drinks and snacks. Take your pick from the refreshing drinks or tasty nibbles – whatever you go for, you'll be well taken care of by your friendly crew. Then, you'll drop anchor. If you fancy cooling off with a dip in the sea, this is your chance. Alternatively, kick back on board, snap some photos, or work on your tan.

Family-friendly 4x4 buggy tour of southern Boa Vista

Get behind the wheel of an off-road, four-seater buggy and explore the south of Boa Vista Island, in Cape Verde, on this outing that's great for couples, solo travellers and families alike. Feel the thrill of ripping across the dunes of Morro de Areia and head past the towering chimney of the old ceramics factory at Chaves Beach. It harks back to the days when the area was an industrial hub on the island in the 19th century. You'll then ride to Verandinha and see its caves and arching cliffs, before stopping at Cape Verde's longest beach, Santa Monica. Then, it's on to see the ruins of Cabo Curral Velho, an old, abandoned fishing village, before finishing your tour with a look at Fonte Vicente's famous baobab tree.

Family-friendly off-road buggy tour of northern Boa Vista

Kick off your day with an adrenaline-pumping tour of northern Boa Vista in a four-seater, off-road buggy. The adventure begins with a rumble along Via Pitoresca, a stretch with sea views and palm trees aplenty, before reaching Ponta do Sol. From there, on a clear day, you'll see your next stop, the island's famous shipwreck, Cabo Santa Maria. The grand finale? A family photo op in the sand dunes of the Viana Desert before it's back to the comfort of your hotel.

Buggy night tour in Boa Vista

Get behind the wheel of a 4x4 buggy on this night tour, zooming across the Viana Desert, stopping there to admire an unforgettable view of one of the seven wonders of Cape Verde. From here, you'll continue across Via Pitoresca, which means ‘picturesque route' in English – we think you'll agree it's worthy of the name – before making your way over the sandy paths to the restored chapel of Our Lady of Fatima. To round off the adventure, you'll zip through Sal-Rei – that's ‘king of salt' in Portuguese – which was named as a sign of respect towards the importance of salt production on the island.

Chaves Bay boat cruise in Boa Vista with swim stop

Set sail for some island fun in Boa Vista. After boarding the Zodiac ‘Ocean Blue' at Sal Rei Port, feel the gentle breeze in your hair as you enjoy a slow harbour cruise, heading out towards Chaves Bay and the dunes of Morro d'Areia. Get ready to snap up pics as you glide along this impressive coastline, soaking up the views along Varandinha and Santa Monica. You'll then enjoy some speed cruising, where before you know it, you'll arrive at Djeu for a refreshing swim stop in its calm, sparkling waters.

Beginners’ scuba diving session in Boa Vista

The waters around the island of Boa Vista, in Cape Verde, are teeming with wildlife and reefs. Don't miss the chance to see them up close with this introductory scuba-diving session, which is run at a professional dive centre with certified guides. Transfers are included, so you'll be picked up and dropped off at your hotel. You can choose from morning or afternoon sessions – each one consists of a safety briefing and two dives, including one in open water.