Sal Island: Lemon Sharks, Salt Crater & Local Lunch Tour

Summary

Swim with sharks float in salt lakes and taste island life

You’ll watch lemon sharks glide through clear shallows, float effortlessly in Sal’s volcanic salt lake, wander colorful villages with your local guide, and share Cape Verdean lunch by the port. Expect laughter, small surprises, and honest moments that linger long after you leave Sal Island.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing that surprised me was the quiet buzz at Shark Bay — you could actually hear the crunch of sand under our shoes before anything else. Our guide, Nelson, pointed out the shallow water where the lemon sharks glide in and out. I’d seen photos but standing there, toes curling into warm sand while these sleek shapes moved just a few meters away… it’s hard to explain. The kids next to us were braver than me; one even tried to mimic their fin with his hand. Nelson just laughed and said they’re used to tourists being more nervous than the sharks.

We drove across Sal Island in a van that rattled a little (not complaining — it felt real), windows down so you could smell salt and something earthy. At Pedra de Lume, the old volcano crater turned salt lake, I floated without effort — really floated, like my body forgot how to sink. The water left my skin sticky and soft at the same time. You don’t need to swim; you just lie back and stare at this big blue sky while locals chat nearby in Creole. There’s something about hearing a language you don’t understand that makes you pay attention differently.

Lunch was in Palmeira, a fishing village where men mended nets right on the street and someone grilled fish close enough that smoke drifted over our table. I ordered whatever Nelson recommended (can’t remember the name — he teased me for asking twice). We wandered past painted houses and murals after eating; he explained which artists were from Sal and which came from other islands for festivals. At Buracona we saw the “blue eye” flicker open in its cave when sunlight hit just right — not every day you catch it but we got lucky.

I still think about Monte Leão’s outline against that pale horizon as we drove back through Espargos. It wasn’t a perfect tour day — my shoes got salty, my hair full of wind — but if anything that made it better. When I look at my photos now, I can almost smell the sea again.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Sal Island highlights and nature

• See lemon sharks in natural environment
• Relax and float in Salinas salt lake
• Marvel at Buracona and swim if possible
• Admire Murdeira Bay and Monte Leão view
• Visit fishing village of Palmeira
• Explore Pedra de Lume historic village
• Admire Mirage desert water illusions
• Discover Santa Maria tourist city
• Explore Kite Beach and white sand dunes
• Visit Espargos city and local life
• Rest stop for lunch or snack

Top questions

Can I see lemon sharks up close on this tour?

Yes, you’ll visit Shark Bay to observe lemon sharks safely in their natural habitat.

Is hotel pickup included for this Sal Island tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included with your booking.

Do I need to know how to swim for Pedra de Lume?

No swimming skills needed — you’ll float easily due to the high salt content.

What’s included for lunch on this day trip?

A local restaurant stop is included; lunch is optional for 11 euros (adults) or 6 euros (children), with vegan/vegetarian choices available.

Are guides certified locals?

Yes, your guide is both native to Sal Island and officially certified.

Is this tour suitable for families with children?

Yes, car baby seats are available free of charge upon request.

How many people can join per booking?

You can book for more than 15 people; larger groups will be organized as private tours.

What should I bring for floating in the salt lake?

A swimsuit and towel are recommended; showers are available at Pedra de Lume.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation across Sal Island with hotel pickup and drop-off, all guided visits including Shark Bay and Pedra de Lume’s salt crater, liability insurance throughout the tour, plus photos or videos taken by your guide along the way. Lunch at a local restaurant is available as an optional extra before returning comfortably to your hotel.