Top Highlights of Santiago for Cruise Passengers

This day tour has been carefully curated for travelers who want to experience Santiago within a limited time frame. The itinerary is compact, comfortable, and logically structured, allowing you to get acquainted with the island's history, culture, and local way of life in a single day — without rushing and with plenty of time to return relaxed.

The tour starts immediately upon arrival at the port of Praia. Together with a local guide, you will first discover the historic center of Praia, where you will gain insight into daily life and the cultural background of Cape Verde. Afterward, you will travel along the coast to Cidade Velha, the country's oldest city and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you will walk through historic streets, including the iconic Rua de Banana, and hear the story of how Santiago was formed.

Following the cultural part, there will be a visit to a local grogue distillery in Cidade Velha. You will receive an explanation about the traditional production of this Cape Verdean drink and subsequently enjoy a full, locally prepared lunch in a relaxed setting.

In the afternoon, you will cross the island towards the east coast. In Pedra Badejo, you will get acquainted with daily life off the beaten tourist track, with a short walk through the village and a stop at the coast. Afterwards, you will comfortably return to the port of Praia, well before departure.

This tour combines culture, local flavors, and island life at a relaxed pace and is suitable for travelers who want to see more than just the highlights.