One of the best things to do on Sal is an exhilarating self driven, off road ATV experience. I joined No Limits Adventure for 4 thrilling hours of high octane driving through Cape Verde's otherworldly landscapes, paddling with sharks and scaling a volcano.
The day started early with an 8:30 AM pick-up from our hotel, Meliá Dunas Beach Resort, in an air-conditioned minibus. After a short transfer to the No Limits Adventure office in Santa Maria, we were briefed on safety procedures, fitted with overalls, goggles, and helmets, and introduced to our formidable 1000cc ATV buggies: automatic, with 2 pedals and a handbrake, lights and indicators for driving on the road and a mighty 4-wheel drive mode for rougher terrain.
Leaving Santa Maria, we hit the dual carriageway and the real adventure began: following our guide, we suddenly veered off into the billowing dust of the rugged, rocky terrain of Western Sal. The island is remarkably rocky and barren, almost Martian!
Our route took us on a thrilling journey:
Coastal Cruising: We raced alongside the ocean, enjoying the breeze.
Salt Flats Exploration: We skimmed across the vast salt flats, which shimmered under the sun.
Volcanic Views: We climbed a volcano for breathtaking panoramic views of the Salinas de Pedra de Lume, Sal's famous salt lake.
Not just an exhilarating driving experience, our buggy adventure also took us on a mini coast to coast tour of the island, visiting some of Sal's top attractions:
The fishing town of Palmeira, famous for its colourful houses.
Shark Bay, where we stopped to paddle in the shallow water that forms a natural nursery for (harmless) baby lemon sharks. If you're not wearing water shoes, you can hire some for €3.
Kite Beach, known for its excellent wind conditions perfect for kite surfing, a spectacle of colours and movement.
Once back at headquarters, transport back to my hotel was also included.
My self drive ATV tour was honestly one of the best things I've done while travelling and I couldn't recommend it more. If you'd like to book your own ATV experience with No Limits Adventure, it's the 4h 1000cc Buggy Island Adventure - its definitely a challenging drive, but the company also offer 500cc buggies and quad bikes, as well as other excursions like catamaran cruises and Segway tours.
They're also on Instagram!
Practical Tips for Adventurers
Don't forget your driver's license! You won't be allowed to drive without it.
Wear closed-toe shoes.
Bring a scarf: This will help protect your face from the dust.
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Disclosure: I was offered a complimentary spot on the ATV experience in return for this blog and Instagram coverage, but as always, all opinions are my own.