Tropical fish, turtles and reefs: everything to know before your first snorkeling trip in Cape Verde.
The water around Boa Vista is clear all year, with the best visibility from May to November. That makes the island an ideal playground for snorkeling, even for beginners.
What you can see
- shoals of tropical fish (sergeant majors, parrotfish, wrasses);
- sea urchins and starfish over rocky bottoms;
- with a bit of luck, green turtles and rays.
Do you need to be a strong swimmer?
Being comfortable in the water is enough. Everyone wears a life jacket and the instructor stays close to the group throughout the session.
How a trip works
The meeting point is Praia do Estoril. After a safety briefing and equipment handout, it takes about 15 minutes to reach the best spots. The session then lasts a good hour before heading back.
Our tips
- Apply reef-safe sunscreen before boarding.
- Do not touch coral or animals: watch, never collect.
- Breathe calmly through the snorkel: that is the key to relaxing.
- Prescription masks can be requested when booking.
When to come
Snorkeling is possible all year, but the trip is not offered during the whale watching season, from early February to late May.
