SANTIAGO: Discover the Heart of the City

Overview ?

 Step back in time and immerse yourself in the soul of Cape Verde with a visit to Cidade Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This tour offers a perfect blend of historical exploration and local sensory experiences, taking you through the very first city built by Europeans in the tropics.

Highlights ✨

• Explore the iconic Royal Fortress of São Filipe and enjoy 360-degree ocean views.
• Walk down Rua da Banana, the oldest colonial street in sub-Saharan Africa.
• Participate in a hands-on Couscous and "Fidjós" workshop with a local family.
• Savor an authentic grogue/rum tasting at a traditional local distillery.
• Visit the historic Pelourinho, a monument to the city's complex past.

Full Description ?

 Your journey begins with a pickup from your accommodation, leading you to the historic heart of Santiago Island. You will wander through cobblestone streets lined with palm trees and ancient ruins, including the ruins of the Sé Cathedral and the 15th-century Church of Nossa Senhora do Rosário.

The experience goes beyond just sightseeing; you will enter a local home to learn the traditional art of making Cape Verdean couscous. To top off the cultural immersion, you’ll visit a distillery to taste the famous local grogue (rum), learning about the distillation process that has been passed down through generations.

What’s Included ✅

• Hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Professional local guide.
• Couscous and local snacks workshop.
• Rum/Grogue tasting session.
• Liability insurance.

What to Bring ?

• Comfortable walking shoes.
• Sun protection (hat and sunscreen).
• Camera for stunning fortress views.
• Cash for the Royal Fortress entrance fee (approx. €5).
• Water.

Quick Facts ℹ️

• Duration: 3 - 4 Hours.
• Price: Starting from €26.00 per person.
• Meeting Point: Your hotel/accommodation lobby in Praia or Cidade Velha.

Why Travelers Love It ❤️ 

Travelers rave about the authentic connection to local life. The combination of walking through centuries-old UNESCO history and then immediately sitting down with a local family to cook makes this more than a tour—it’s a true cultural exchange. The rum tasting provides a spirited end to a fascinating morning or afternoon.