Viana desert

AN EXTENSION OF THE SAHARA IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ATLANTIC OCEAN

One of the main attractions in Boavista is the Viana desert, a small but captivating desert spanning approximately one km in width and around 5 km in length. This desert is characterized by its light sand, which is beautifully mixed with grains of black earth.

The Viana desert owes its existence to the continuous ocean winds that transport vast amounts of sand from the African continent. Due to the island’s geographical formation and its proximity to the mainland, this sand is deposited on Boavista, creating mesmerizing desert dunes. These dunes are interspersed with sparse vegetation and striking dark volcanic rocks, resulting in a breathtaking landscape that showcases a vibrant array of colors.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Viana desert is the absence of artificial sounds, which enhances the lunar-like atmosphere of the place. This makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking tranquillity and a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Here, you can walk freely without any difficulty, enjoying the serenity of being just a few steps away from civilization, without the worry of encountering poisonous animals or quicksand.

Immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of the Viana desert, where the rapid passage of clouds projects an almost hypnotic play of light and shadow onto the ground. Experience the awe-inspiring sights and sounds of this natural wonder, and create unforgettable memories in this untouched paradise.

This little desert of sand in the ocean is protected by the Cape Verdean government, which prohibits the circulation of motor vehicles and promotes the construction of real “walls” stones to limit the movement of sand dunes, which seem annually to progress towards the coast. Living a desert adventure has never been easier!

Useful tips

– The recommended means to reach the desert of Viana are the pick up or the quad.
– If you go for the first time, we advise you not to go there by yourself: this page lists the official excursions. Beware of going there with people who do not have a regular license or insurance.
– Given its small size, the desert lends itself to very simple walks: bring along water and a snack; in any case, there is a little bar/restaurant near the entrance path, the Viana Club.
– The reflection of the sun on the sand is like on the snow: bring sunglasses, comfortable shoes, sunscreen and a hat; at the top of the dunes it blows a lot of wind, but it is worth climbing to slip and take some souvenir photos.
– If you are lucky enough to happen on a full moon night, a moonlit desert ride will be an unforgettable excursion!

THE EXCURSIONS

QUAD NORTH TOUR

4 hours

The departure is in Sal-Rei, with 4-wheel vehicles for 2 people. Driving the quad is pure fun, very stable, and it gives the impression of flying. After passing through Rabil, a small town, you arrive at the dunes of the Viana desert, magnificent sand walls that move with the wind and offer a breathtaking view.

Near the desert, there is a bar where you can stop and take a walk on foot. During the tour, you travel in the queue, to avoid ending up in chasms or dangerous points. The dunes are soft, silent and the sand does not burn because it is very clear. Once you leave the desert, you will go north to visit the Cabo Santa Maria, one of the last shipwrecks of Boavista. Here the terrain is more impervious, but doesn’t worry because the expert guides know perfectly every path!

The excursion is also suitable for children, from 7 years. No special technical knowledge is required, and the excursion ends where it started.

2 POSSIBLE DEPARTURES (every day):
– Bravo Praia Chave: 08:15 / 13:15
– Riu Touareg: 08:00 / 13:30
– Riu Palace: 08:30 / 13.30
– Royal Horizon: 08:20 / 13:20
– Marine Club: 08:30 / 13:30
– Riu Karamboa: 08:45 / 13:45
– Chave: 08:20 / 13:20
– Sal Rei: 08:30 / 13:30

RETURN: Expected after about 5h.

TRANSPORT INCLUDED: Pick-up or bus directly at the hotel or in the city. Further details will be provided after booking.

EXCURSION PRICE:
€ 100 double motorbike (2 people)
€ 85 single motorbike (1 person)

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HALF DAY DESERT BY 4x4

4 hours

Starting from Sal Rei or from the hotels, the first stop is in Rabil, the nice village 1 km near the airport, where you can admire the ancient pottery processing at the “ollaria”, one of the few forms of local craftsmanship. Leaving from Rabil you cross the small palm-lined oasis and immediately after you arrive at the Viana Desert. The desert has been formed over the years, from the Alisei winds coming from North Africa, loaded with sand from the Sahara. Viana changes continuously over time, stretches, widens, and every time the landscape offers different beauties.

It’s beautiful walking barefoot on the sand and rolling off the dunes, in front of the curious gaze of the goats that live there. Leaving the desert, it proceeds towards Cabo Santa Maria, in order to admire an old wreck and the sea eagles.

Proceeding towards Sal Rei, a stop at the Church of Fatima, recently renovated, which offers a breathtaking view of the sandy coves in the middle of the volcanic rocks. To end the trip, a walk in Sal Rei, the main town of Boavista.

2 POSSIBLE DEPARTURES (every day):
From all hotels and Sal Rei:
Morning: 09:00 AM
Afternoon: 2:00 PM

RETURN: Expected return after about 4h.

TRANSPORT INCLUDED
Pick-up directly at the hotel or at your accommodation. Further details will be provided after booking.

EXCURSION PRICE (for the car)
1-2 pax € 90; 3-4 pax 120€

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HALF DAY MORRO NEGRO BY 4x4

4 hours

On the road to the history and tradition of Boavista, the first stop is the terracotta factory of Rabil, the ancient Olarìa, where skilled artisans work the red earth by hand and create very nice statues. Leaving Rabil we turn towards the Viana desert, formed with the sands that the winds bring from Africa: you can slide down from the dunes and walk to “hear” the magical silence of this place. The tour continue on a road still made of cobblestones, towards the villages of the North: João Galego, Fundo das Figueiras and Cabeça dos Tarafes, very colourful, full of flowers and hospitable people.

From Cabeça the path take a black run, crossing a surreal landscape of volcanic stones, which leads to one of the highest points of Boavista: the Morro Negro lighthouse. Then go for a 10 minutes walk, where the view on the Atlantic Ocean is breathtaking. On the way back the path is the same, but by changing the direction and view, the emotions are also renewed.

2 POSSIBLE DEPARTURES (every day):
From all hotels and Sal Rei:
Morning: 09:00 AM
Afternoon: 2:00 PM

RETURN: Expected return after about 4h.

TRANSPORT INCLUDED
Pick-up directly at the hotel or at your accommodation. Further details will be provided after booking.

EXCURSION PRICE (for the car)
1-2 pax 90€; 3-4 pax 120€

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Why see the Viana desert?

As a kind of mini rally, in total safety, you pass through endless fields of red earth, like on Mars, to reach a place so quiet and magnificent to feel on another planet.