Espargos Day Trips: Top 5 Island Adventures

Planning a getaway to Sal Island, Cape Verde? Espargos, often the point of arrival since it hosts the airport, can be your jumping-off spot for a string of great island day trips. Far from just a transit town, Espargos throws open a door to a mixed bag of experiences, from chilling on unspoiled shorelines to snooping around ancient volcanic landscapes. These are some fantastic spots to scope out that give you a feel for what Sal has to bring to the table, so you are going to enjoy these! Check out the top 5 day trips from Espargos and find yourself an adventure!

1. The Pretty Blue Eye: Buracona Lagoon

The Buracona Lagoon, sometimes called “The Blue Eye,” needs to be one of your first stops. Basically, this place is famous for a cool underwater cave that gives off the look of a big, piercing blue eye when sunlight comes streaming in at a certain angle. It really is an unbelievable show, it can’t be described properly. You’ll probably want to come prepared with a camera, that’s for sure.

While taking a dip in the lagoon is no longer allowed so the eco balance is kept right, just experiencing the views really makes the trip a memory you won’t forget. Not too far away, you might want to check out the natural pools close by. Mother Nature carved them out of the volcanic rock. They’re absolutely grand for a revitalizing soak, it goes without saying. They do make the visit worth it, too it’s almost like you’re getting a two-for-one experience with views and relaxation. Getting to Buracona, so it isn’t all that tricky. If you are staying in Espargos, you’ll get there by taxi or rented quad bike quite quickly, that will depend on the day.

Read our full review: Buracona Lagoon Sal Full Review and Details
See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Buracona Lagoon Tickets)

2. Head North for All Things Funky: Murdeira

Murdeira is sitting smack-dab in the center of Sal, which makes it the perfect spot for a leisurely day away from the bustle of Espargos. It’s more or less known for having a really sheltered bay, which is simply fabulous if you enjoy taking a dip in calm, transparent waters. A massive, chunky coral reef is close to shore, basically beckoning snorkelers and people who have an itch for observing underwater wildlife. Donning a mask and snorkel here might be just the ticket so you have a memorable experience, it will give you the chance to view the radiant marine species flitting about under the waves.

If you would rather keep your feet on land, there’s this sleepy little village, and you can explore the neighborhood on foot, scoping out the regional art dotting the coast. Grab a bite at one of the local restaurants; plenty have new seafood. You’ll want to let your worries fade away, maybe while digging your feet into the plush, powdery sand. If you want to hit Murdeira, so it’s easiest to get to by either renting a car or hailing a taxi from Espargos. The drive should only be a few short minutes, and you can find parking.

Read our full review: Murdeira Cape Verde Full Review and Details
See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Murdeira Excursions)

3. Let Loose With The Sharks: Shark Bay

For thrill-seekers out there, so taking a trip to Shark Bay offers an unrivaled thrill. Just a short hop from Espargos, this specific spot grants you the awesome chance to actually observe lemon sharks out in their local setting. There’s nothing like getting to wade out into the shallow waters so you watch as these peaceful animals meander about, it is all perfectly fine.

Seriously, safety instructions are normally given, and a lot of the guided excursions have people with expertise who know a lot regarding the sharks and their doings. Just be certain you take heed of all guidelines, that’s pretty important. It can turn into a really enlightening yet riveting excursion for everybody, of course. To get over to Shark Bay, so tours usually take off from Espargos, or you might wish to simply flag down a cab. Try making the journey early, before things get busy, for that amazing encounter.

Read our full review: Shark Bay Sal Island Full Review and Details
See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Shark Bay Tours)

4. A Trip to Salt Mines: Pedra de Lume

Go check out Pedra de Lume, an old salt mine right inside a dormant volcanic crater; very awesome! The location brings some interesting past information to the table while giving you the chance to float around in water that’s excellent at holding you up due to the high salt levels. Folks love to come so they can have a therapeutic dip.

Supposedly, the waters pack advantages for the skin and assist with soothing sore muscles. It’s a unique place to go since it provides both leisure and information and all this can be experienced inside the breathtaking surroundings of a volcanic crater. Basically, tours make their way often to Pedra de Lume originating out of Espargos, or getting there all by yourself really just entails a fast cab journey. Aim to head there during the earlier part of the morning, when you’re likely to be looking at less crowding.

Read our full review: Pedra de Lume Salt Mine Full Review and Details
See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Pedra de Lume Tickets)

5. Down to the South You Go: Santa Maria

No trip to Sal gets completed unless Santa Maria makes the list, which is found toward the southernmost tip of the island. It just so happens to be most well-known for its sweeping expanses of sandy shoreline and vibrant vibe. The stretch of shore, so it’s superb for everything from chilling in the sun to getting a taste of things, aquatic sports style.

Be sure to watch out for the neighborhood pier, where fishermen unload their everyday grabs and there’s generally hustle and excitement. In short, the town buzzes thanks to the assortment of dining places, watering holes, and marketplaces–super if you are on the hunt for gifts and genuine mementos. To hop from Espargos over to Santa Maria, so it usually includes going by cab or using the regional aluguer, a kind of shared taxi, that typically gives an affordable way to make your way around the island.

Read our full review: Santa Maria Sal Cape Verde Full Review and Details
See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Santa Maria Day Trip)