Santiago Island Discovery
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Port
Praia, Ilha de Santiago, Cape Verde
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$130
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 7½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
Take this fantastic chance to learn about the history of Cape Verde in general and Santiago Island, and to immerse yourself in the island and its traditions.
In Cidade da Praia, set out on foot to visit the capital and see the statue of Diogo Gomes. Gomes discovered the Cape Verde Islands in 1460. Still in Cidade da Praia, you will also visit the colorful vegetable market.
Next continue to Cidade Velha (the Old Town). Here you will visit the Fortress of San Filipe, built by orders of Filipe I, King of Portugal and Spain. Also in the village, you will visit the Pelourinho -- a reminder of the islands' history of slavery and the sad commerce of human souls.
Enjoy a stroll along Rua Banana to see the traditional old stone houses and shop at a local handicrafts store. Then, a ride up the mountain offers an entirely different view of the landscape and a glimpse of local life.
After lunch, enjoy the beauty of the Cape Verdean Botanic Garden and, on the way back to the port, enjoy a scenic drive along east coast via Calheta San Miguel and through Santa Cruz Village.
Please note: Tourism infrastructure is limited in Cape Verde; the coach may not have air-conditioning or a PA system. Public markets are closed on Sundays and holidays. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Based on the state of preservation and/or blooming season, the visit to the Botanical Gardens may be replaced with a visit to the Eco Center.