Excursion Sao vicente island discovery tour at Mindelo

Discover the stunning island beauty and cultural highlights of Cabo Verde during this picturesque, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Mindelo, Plantations, Volcanic Landscape, Monte Verde Summit, City, Bay, Village & Coastal Views

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 45-minute drive to Monte Verde (Green Mountain), located in the eastern part of the island of Sao Vicente. At approximately 2,441 feet (about 744 metres) in elevation, Monte Verde is the highest point on the island. The exhilarating ride to the summit of Monte Verde has many steep drop-offs, twists, and turns, and passes by picturesque plantations and stunning volcanic landscapes en route. Upon arrival at the summit, take in spectacular panoramic vistas overlooking the city of Mindelo, its magnificent bay, village of Baia das Gatas, and the arid, sloped, and rugged coastline of Sao Vicente. Weather-permitting, you may even be able to see some of the neighbouring islands.  

Photo Stops, Monte Verde, Praia Grande Beach, White Sands, Black Lava Mountains

In Monte Verde, head for breath-taking photo stops at viewpoints overlooking Mindelo and the village of Baia das Gatas, then drive along the coast to beautiful Praia Grande Beach with its dramatic contrast of white-sand beach and black lava mountains. Upon arrival, some free time is made available to relax and/or take a stroll on this exquisite beach. Afterward, re-board your coach and proceed for a refreshment stop at a local restaurant.

Local Restaurant, Traditional Music & Dancing, Ribeira de Calhau Valley, Viana Crater, Observatory

Upon arrival, enjoy a buffet of local refreshments accompanied by a live performance of traditional music and dancing. Your scenic drive continues through the agricultural valley of Ribeira de Calhau with its three villages, Madeiral, Ribeira de Calhau, and Calhau, then past the extinct volcanic crater of Viana and Humberto Duarte Fonseca (Cape Verde Atmospheric Observatory), before returning to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Mindelo, Monte Verde, City, Bay, Village & Coastal Views, Praia Grande Beach, Traditional Music & Dancing, Ribeira de Calhau Valley, Viana Crater, Observatory

Note

Please note: This tour involves a minimal amount of walking for approximately 218 yards (about 200 metres), at times over uneven and sandy surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and 10 steps at the sites visited. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, a sweater or light jacket, bottled water, and Euros or credit cards for purchases from the ship. Guests must be at least 6 years old to participate on this tour; minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 18 years old. Guests must be at least 18 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. The tour sequence may vary. Staying hydrated throughout the day is essential, and we encourage guests to bring water with them. Infrastructure in Cape Verde is relatively basic; however, Silversea ensures the use of the best available resources to provide a comfortable and enriching experience.