São Vicente: Snorkeling with Sea Turtles & Local Guide

Summary

Snorkel with sea turtles in São Vicente guided by locals

You’ll swim alongside wild sea turtles near São Pedro with a local guide who knows where to find them. Enjoy hotel pickup from Mindelo, all snorkeling equipment provided, and a short boat ride out to clear waters. Experience that rare hush underwater as you watch marine life up close — something you’ll remember long after leaving Cape Verde.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t actually expect to see a sea turtle up close — you know how these things go, sometimes it’s just wishful thinking. But there we were, bobbing in the water off São Pedro after a short drive from Mindelo (the van was already humming before I’d finished my coffee), and suddenly our guide pointed out this slow-moving shape gliding under us. The water was cooler than I thought it’d be, but not in a bad way — more like a wake-up call. I could smell the salt on my skin even before we got in.

The boat ride itself was quick, maybe ten minutes? Our guide, Paulo, joked about the turtles being “shy celebrities” — he’s lived here all his life and seemed to know exactly where to look. When I finally dipped my head under with the mask (which fit better than any rental I’ve had before), everything went quiet except for my own breathing and the distant sound of someone laughing on the boat. The turtle wasn’t bothered by us at all; it just kept doing its thing while little fish darted around. I tried waving at it — no reaction, obviously.

After about an hour floating around (time gets weird when you’re watching something that peaceful), we climbed back onto the boat. My legs felt like jelly but in a good way. Paulo handed out towels and asked if anyone wanted to try saying “tartaruga” in Portuguese — I definitely butchered it and got a laugh from him anyway. Back on shore, the sun felt warmer somehow. The drive back to Mindelo was quiet; everyone seemed lost in their own thoughts. I still think about that turtle sometimes when I’m stuck in city traffic — just moving slow and not caring who’s watching.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkeling with Sea Turtles

• Pickup from hotel in Mindelo
• Boat ride to snorkeling area
• Snorkel with sea turtles
• Transfer back to accommodation in Mindelo

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this São Vicente snorkel tour?

Yes, pickup and drop-off at your accommodation in Mindelo are included.

How long is the snorkeling experience with sea turtles?

The snorkeling part lasts around one hour in the water.

Do I need previous snorkeling experience?

No, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels and beginners are welcome.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, masks and fins are provided as part of the tour inclusions.

Where does the tour take place?

The tour goes from Mindelo to São Pedro on São Vicente island.

Are life jackets available during the boat ride?

Yes, life jackets are available on board for safety.

Is there a guide or instructor during the activity?

Yes, a local guide accompanies you throughout the experience.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop-off at your accommodation in Mindelo, transportation to São Pedro, a short boat ride out to where the turtles swim, all snorkeling equipment (mask and fins), life jackets on board for safety, plus guidance from a local expert throughout your time in the water before returning comfortably back to town.