Espargos

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Espargos's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival in Espargos
morning
:

Arrive at the Amílcar Cabral International Airport and take a short transfer to your accommodation in Espargos. Settle into your hotel and recharge after your journey. Grab a light breakfast at a local café while soaking in the Cape Verdean atmosphere.

afternoon
:

After lunch, explore the vibrant streets of Espargos, visiting local shops and markets for souvenirs and handcrafted goods. Immerse yourself in the culture by interacting with friendly locals who are eager to share their stories. Make your way to the nearby Nature Park for scenic views of the stunning landscape.

evening
:

In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at a traditional Cape Verdean restaurant and savor the local flavors. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the town to experience its vibrant nightlife. Wind down the day with a cocktail at a local bar while listening to Cape Verdean music.

day 2
Discovering Santa Maria
morning
:

Travel to the nearby town of Santa Maria, home to beautiful beaches and clear blue waters. Spend the morning relaxing on the sandy shores or participating in water sports like snorkeling or kite surfing. Enjoy a fresh seafood breakfast at a beachside restaurant.

afternoon
:

After soaking up the sun, explore the local shops in Santa Maria for unique crafts and souvenirs. Visit the iconic pier where you can watch the fishermen at work, showcasing the town’s lively fishing culture. Grab a refreshing drink at a beachfront bar to cool off.

evening
:

Return to Espargos for dinner, trying out a different local restaurant that features live music performances. Experience the lively atmosphere of the town as locals celebrate the evening. Enjoy traditional dances that highlight Cape Verde's rich cultural heritage.

day 3
Adventure in Buracona
morning
:

Head to Buracona, a natural wonder known for its crystal-clear blue lagoon and impressive rock formations. Spend the morning hiking along the scenic trails, taking in breathtaking views of the ocean and the landscape. Capture picturesque photos of the famous Blue Eye, a unique rock formation.

afternoon
:

Dive into the calming waters of the lagoon for a refreshing swim, surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy overlooking the ocean, immersing yourself in the tranquility of the area. Take time to relax and reflect in such a soothing environment.

evening
:

As dusk falls, return to Espargos and savor dinner at a restaurant that offers traditional Cape Verdean dishes. Tonight, indulge in a special dessert made with local ingredients to cap off your culinary adventure. Spend the evening chatting with fellow travelers and sharing stories about your day.

day 4
Cultural Immersion in Espargos
morning
:

Join a local guided tour to learn more about the history and culture of Espargos. Visit the Soca Guitars, where local artisans create traditional Cape Verdean instruments. Engage with the artisans and explore the craftsmanship involved in their work.

afternoon
:

After the tour, enjoy lunch at a local eatery and taste the traditional dish of cachupa, a hearty stew that is a staple of Cape Verdean cuisine. Explore the surrounding area and visit any local cultural centers showcasing traditional costumes and crafts. Spend the afternoon learning local dances in an interactive workshop.

evening
:

Return to your hotel to rest before heading out for the evening. Attend a cultural show that features local music and dance, where you can participate and learn the moves. Wrap up the night by sharing your experience with newfound friends over drinks at a lively tavern.

day 5
Exploring Sal Isle
morning
:

Take a full-day excursion to Sal Island, known for its stunning beaches and unique landscapes. Spend the morning relaxing at one of the renowned beaches, such as Ponta Preta, and enjoy sunbathing or swimming in the warm waters. Alternatively, participate in a guided snorkeling tour to discover marine life.

afternoon
:

Savor a beachside lunch featuring locally-caught fish and refreshing salads prepared with fresh ingredients. After lunch, explore the natural salt flats where salt has been harvested for centuries, a fascinating aspect of Sal's economy. Take in the picturesque views and snap some memorable photos.

evening
:

End your day with a delightful dinner back in Espargos, reminiscing about your adventures on Sal Island. Seek out a quaint café for dessert before returning to your hotel. Wind down with a nightcap and enjoy the serene evening ambiance.

day 6
Day of Relaxation at the Spa
morning
:

Dedicate a day to self-care and relaxation at one of the local spas offering holistic treatments. Start your morning with a soothing massage that highlights Cape Verdean wellness traditions. Let the calming atmosphere help you unwind and recharge.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at the spa’s healthy café, opting for fresh juices and salads designed to invigorate and nourish. Relax by the pool or partake in yoga sessions offered at the spa to deepen your sense of tranquility. Spend some time in the sauna or hammam for a revitalizing experience.

evening
:

In the evening, enjoy a peaceful dinner at the spa’s restaurant that focuses on healthy, locally-sourced ingredients. Reflect on your day of relaxation and rejuvenation while enjoying the serene surroundings. End the night by journaling your thoughts and experiences in the beautiful backdrop of Espargos.

day 7
Exploring Local Markets
morning
:

Visit the local market in Espargos to experience the vibrant atmosphere filled with fresh produce, spices, and handcrafted goods. Spend your morning interacting with friendly vendors who are passionate about their products and inviting you to taste local delicacies. Discover unique Cape Verdean crafts and consider bringing some home as a souvenir.

afternoon
:

After shopping, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café, tasting local flavors enriched with fresh ingredients from the market. Take a guided cooking class in the afternoon to learn how to prepare traditional Cape Verdean dishes. Enhance your culinary skills while enjoying the company of fellow food enthusiasts.

evening
:

Enjoy your prepared meal with a sense of accomplishment as you share the flavors of Cape Verde with your fellow classmates. Seek out a cozy bar with live music to absorb the lively nightlife. Let the sounds of local musicians wrap you in the culture of the island.

day 8
Nature Discovery at Serra Negra
morning
:

Embark on a hiking adventure to Serra Negra, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the island and explore its diverse flora and fauna. Spend the morning trekking through the trails, keeping an eye out for local wildlife and beautiful landscapes. Breathe in the fresh air and appreciate the untouched beauty of nature.

afternoon
:

After working up an appetite, have a picnic lunch on the mountain, surrounded by breathtaking views. Take more time to explore the trails or find a serene spot to meditate and connect with nature. Capture the scenic vistas with photographs as you explore.

evening
:

Return to Espargos as the sun sets, and enjoy a hearty dinner reflecting upon your day's explorations. Immerse yourself in the scenic beauty and tranquility of the evening while sipping on a refreshing drink. Share your hiking stories with fellow travelers at a cozy gathering place.

day 9
Farewell Adventure
morning
:

Take it slow on your final morning in Espargos, indulging in breakfast at a local café enjoying the surrounding views. Reflect on your journey and savor the local flavors one last time before packing your bags. Doing some last-minute shopping for souvenirs and mementos can also make for a lovely farewell.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon enjoying a leisurely stroll around Espargos, soaking in the bustling atmosphere once more. Relax at one of the parks or find a shaded spot to watch the world go by while savoring a final gelato. Consider visiting a local gallery or cultural center for one last dose of Cape Verdean art.

evening
:

As your adventure comes to a close, enjoy a farewell dinner featuring your favorite dishes from the trip. Share your favorite moments with travel companions and reflect on the experiences you’ve created. Depart Espargos with a heart full of memories and a spirit invigorated by the vibrancy of Cabo Verde.

Discover Espargos

Read more in our Espargos 2025 Travel Guide.

Espargos Travel Guide