Boa Vista: Buggy Shipwreck & Viana Desert Adventure Tour

Wind in your face, shipwrecks and sand dunes on Boa Vista’s wild coast

You’ll ride a powerful buggy across Boa Vista’s wild north coast with a local guide, feeling the wind as you cross oasis trails and sandy stretches. Stand before the haunting Cabo Santa Maria shipwreck, then climb to Ponta do Sol for sweeping ocean views. Expect laughter, salty air, and moments that stick with you long after you’re home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Explore North Coast and Shipwreck

• Drive through Via Pitoresca Oasis
• Visit Cabo Santa Maria shipwreck beach
• Stop at Ponta do Sol Panorama Point

The experience

I’d never sat behind the wheel of a 1000cc buggy before: honestly, I was a little nervous when our guide handed me the helmet and those big wraparound glasses. The engine had this low growl that made my stomach flutter (in a good way). We bumped off the main road almost right away, tires kicking up little clouds as we headed into what they call Via Pitoresca. It really does feel like an oasis out there: palm fronds flickering in the wind, some goats wandering around. Our guide, Paulo, waved at a couple of kids who shouted something I couldn’t catch. The air smelled salty and kind of dusty. I kept licking my lips without thinking.

The first stop was Cabo Santa Maria beach. You see photos of the shipwreck online but it’s different standing there with your shoes full of sand and that huge rusted hull looming over you. Paulo told us about how the Spanish cargo ship ran aground back in 1968. He said even now, bits of it wash up after storms. There was this silence for a second except for waves smacking against metal. I tried to imagine what it sounded like that night when it crashed (probably terrifying). We took photos but mostly just stared at it for a while. It’s one of those places you don’t rush.

Afterwards we zipped up to Ponta do Sol Panorama Point. The wind got stronger and I had to squint through my goggles. Sand gets everywhere, by the way. From up there you can see so much coastline: all these shades of blue and brown and white foam lines curling along the beach. Paulo pointed out where we’d just been and grinned when I tried to say “Cabo Santa Maria” with his accent (I did not nail it). On the way back, my hair felt crunchy from salt spray and dust but I didn’t care. Still think about that view sometimes when things get too quiet at home.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop off at your accommodation in Boa Vista plus all fuel needed for your buggy ride. You’ll get a helmet and protective glasses (trust me, you’ll want them), bottled water to keep you going under that sun, and guidance from locals who know every twist of these sandy tracks.

Options for this experience

2 options

2-hour North Buggy Adventure in Boa Vista, 1000ccUp to 2 people · Guide in 4 languages · 14:00 and 16:30Pickup is included

4-seater buggy with childrenUp to 4 people · Guide in 4 languages · 14:004-seater buggy, pickup is included

You pick the guide language when booking.

You'll see the exact price of each option when you check availability.See dates and prices

Before you book

Days and timesMonday to SaturdayDepartures at 14:00 and 16:30

Book up to1h before

GroupUp to 10

Live guideEnglish, Spanish, French and Portuguese

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup is optional; you can also go straight to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.You can choose from 7 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Low physical effortInfant seats availableNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with back problems

Operated by No Limits Adventure Boa Vista

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English, Spanish, French and Portuguese.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

How long is the Boa Vista buggy tour?

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours from start to finish.

Is hotel pickup included in this buggy tour?

Yes, pickup and drop off are included in your booking.

Do I need previous experience to drive the buggy?

No previous experience is required. Guides provide instructions before starting.

What should I wear for the Boa Vista buggy adventure?

Wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting sandy or dusty. Helmets and glasses are provided.

Is bottled water provided during the tour?

Yes, bottled water is included for all participants.

Are children allowed on this tour?

Specialized infant seats are available. Check suitability based on age and size.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant travelers or people with spinal injuries?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries.

What sights are included on this day trip from Sal Rei?

You’ll visit Via Pitoresca oasis trail, Cabo Santa Maria shipwreck beach, and Ponta do Sol Panorama Point.