Shark Bay & Pedra de Lume Private Tour

Description

Experience two of Sal Island’s most fascinating natural attractions on a private tour combining wildlife, volcanic landscapes and the island’s salt heritage.

Begin at Shark Bay, where you can walk through the warm, shallow waters and observe juvenile lemon sharks swimming around you in their natural habitat. Against the dramatic volcanic coastline, your local guide will help you enjoy this special encounter safely and respectfully while sharing stories about the sharks and the surrounding ecosystem.

Continue to the Salinas of Pedra de Lume, hidden inside the crater of an extinct volcano. Once an important centre of salt production, this extraordinary landscape reveals how salt shaped the history, economy and identity of Sal Island.

Step into the hypersaline lake and experience the unusual sensation of floating effortlessly on the water. Where available and permitted, you may also enjoy the natural mineral mud found around the salt lake. Surrounded by the quiet crater and its colourful salt pools, it is a peaceful moment to slow down, relax and fully connect with one of Cape Verde’s most distinctive landscapes.

With a private guide and time to enjoy each location at your own pace, this tour brings together wildlife, culture, history and a memorable feeling of wellbeing.

Highlights

Private tour combining Shark Bay and Pedra de Lume
Observe juvenile lemon sharks in the shallow waters of Shark Bay
Explore the dramatic volcanic coastline of eastern Sal
Float in the hypersaline lake inside an extinct volcanic crater
Discover the history of salt production on Sal Island

Important Information

Prices start at €90 per private group for up to 2 paying passengers. From the 3rd paying passenger onwards, €10 is added per additional person, up to a maximum of 8 guests.
Bring a swimsuit, towel and sunscreen if you wish to float in the Pedra de Lume salt lake.
Water shoes are strongly recommended at Shark Bay because of the rocky seabed and sea urchins. They may be rented on site for approximately €2, subject to availability.
Rinse thoroughly after floating in the salt lake, as salt residue may remain on the skin and clothing.
Shark Bay is home to juvenile lemon sharks, which can be observed in the shallow water.
Shark sightings depend on wildlife and sea conditions and cannot be guaranteed.
Do not touch, chase or feed the sharks. Always follow the guide’s instructions.
The itinerary may be adjusted due to weather, sea conditions or operational requirements.

Included

Hotel pickup and drop-off across Sal Island

Private air-conditioned transport

Local Kriol Trip guide

Guided visit to Shark Bay

Guided visit to Pedra de Lume

Pedra de Lume salt lake entrance fee

Excluded

Water-shoe rental — available on site for approximately €2, subject to availability

Food and drinks

Personal expenses

Gratuities

Walk through the shallow waters of Shark Bay and observe juvenile lemon sharks in their natural habitat. Your guide will explain how to approach the area safely and respectfully. Sightings depend on wildlife and sea conditions.

Explore the historic salt pans inside an extinct volcanic crater, learn about Sal Island’s salt heritage and enjoy the unique sensation of floating in the hypersaline water. Natural mineral mud may also be available, depending on local conditions.

Your guide shares the history of salt mining since 1805 and why the island is named "Sal". Panoramic views of the volcanic crater before returning to hotel.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is the group price calculated?

The private tour starts at €90 for up to 2 paying passengers. From the 3rd paying passenger onwards, €10 is added per person, up to a maximum of 8 guests. One child under 5 travels free; from the second child under 5 onwards, each additional child is counted for pricing purposes.

Are shark sightings guaranteed?

Juvenile lemon sharks are regularly present in the shallow waters of Shark Bay, and sightings are very common. However, as they are wild animals, visibility and the exact number of sharks may vary depending on sea and weather conditions.

Are the sharks dangerous at Shark Bay?

Shark Bay is known for juvenile lemon sharks observed in shallow water. They are generally calm, but they remain wild animals. Do not touch, chase or feed them, and always follow the guide’s instructions.

Do I need water shoes?

Water shoes are strongly recommended because Shark Bay has a rocky seabed and sea urchins may be present. They may be rented on site for approximately €2, subject to availability.

Can I float in the Pedra de Lume salt lake?

Yes, when local conditions and site rules allow. The high salt concentration makes it possible to float effortlessly. Bring a swimsuit and towel, and rinse thoroughly afterwards.

Is natural mineral mud available?

Natural mineral mud may be available around the salt lake, depending on local conditions and site rules. It is part of the natural experience and is not presented as a medical treatment.

Are the entrance fees included?

Yes. The entrance fee to the Pedra de Lume salt lake is included in the tour.

Can I really float like in the Dead Sea?

Yes. The high salt concentration in the Pedra de Lume lake allows you to float easily, creating a sensation similar to floating in the Dead Sea. Bring a swimsuit and towel, and rinse thoroughly afterwards to remove the salt from your skin and clothing.

What should I bring?

Bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen and drinking water. Water shoes are strongly recommended for Shark Bay because of the rocky seabed and sea urchins. They may be rented on site for approximately €2, subject to availability.