Boa Vista 4×4 Tour: Shipwreck & Local Lunch Review

Thinking of checking out Boa Vista, Cape Verde, and maybe spicing things up with a 4×4 tour that involves a shipwreck and some food from around here? You know, I gave the “Postcards of Boa Vista 4×4 Tour with Shipwreck Local Lunch” a go, and I figured I would pass along how that all went, you know, sort of lay it all out there for anyone pondering a similar adventure. There is such a lot to consider and perhaps I could help. First thing you notice is, so, how vast and empty this island is and the adventure element begins here. Honestly, this trip had parts I really liked, and then, well, parts that were just sort of okay, which I think is the same with any trip.

What’s the Deal with the 4×4 Tour?

This whole escapade, at least what I got from it, is really about experiencing Boa Vista outside the confines of whatever resort you might be staying in. It takes you into the heart of the island, to places, really, you would not normally see on your own, so, you need someone to lead. The main attractions are, of course, the shipwreck, usually called the Cabo Santa Maria, and a locally sourced lunch. The itinerary usually tosses in some other points of interest around the island.

So, you bounce around in the 4×4 – and that’s an important detail; it does get bumpy – hitting spots that showcase a different side of Cape Verde, basically. We saw some really interesting rock formations, stopped at a little village to meet people that lived there and had some terrific photo ops. Speaking of photos, the sky is something else – is that even real? Just to be clear, the whole vibe is unrefined adventure, so, prepare to get dusty.

Hitting the Highlights: The Shipwreck

Okay, let’s get to the shipwreck part – probably why you are reading, and let’s face it, it is pretty neat. The Cabo Santa Maria ran aground back in the late 1960s, and it’s still sitting there and something to see, rusting away on the beach. Now, is it a pristine, untouched relic? No way. Time and tide have taken their toll, but still, it’s hard not to feel something standing next to this rusting behemoth, really.

It’s a cool spot to snap some pictures and hear the story of what happened, but the area around it is also striking. It shows you the raw power of the ocean. We spent maybe an hour there, which felt like enough time to soak it all in and that included checking the stalls along the beach.

Chowing Down: The Local Lunch

After all the off-roading and sightseeing, the “local lunch” bit of the tour really sounded, really sounded amazing. It tends to take place at a family-run establishment or a simple spot that serves island fare, somewhere in Sal Rei or near, typically, one of the coastal villages. The menu, from what I could see, will depend on what’s available and that day’s catch.

We ate at this little place, and it was like being invited into someone’s home, which, to be fair, it probably was someone’s home, kind of. The food was good; hearty, simply prepared dishes that used ingredients from around here, mainly that are common in Cape Verde. I think mine was fish caught locally, with some veggies and rice. You will get an actual taste of Boa Vista; it’s not fancy, yet totally adequate, too.

What to Seriously Consider Before You Go

Alright, so before you punch this tour into your holiday planner, let me break down a couple things you should probably think about. That off-road bit is no joke, really; if you are bothered by bouncing and jolting, this might not be your thing. Or if it is, make sure you take the appropriate medication. Likewise, bring some water and sunscreen – the Cape Verde sun is mighty intense, actually.

It’s beneficial to pack a hat and sunglasses. And I do not care what the time of year it is. You could bring something to cover your face. Honestly, the dust can be brutal; the scarf is more useful than trendy, really. Finally, adjust your expectations somewhat; this isn’t a luxury excursion. It’s closer to seeing the genuine article with some scruffy edges, for example.

What About Those Pesky Sand Fleas?

Okay, let’s chat about these little guys, ’cause nobody likes itchy surprises, right? So, yep, sand fleas – or, as some folks name them, sandflies or even beach fleas – can be something in spots around Boa Vista, mostly along the beaches, as you could guess. Now, do not let them completely stop you seeing a wonderful island; yet knowing is half the battle. So, here is the lowdown from personal experience.

The problem areas tend to be anywhere where sand is combined with humidity and vegetation. Basically, those postcard-perfect beaches can sometimes double as sand flea playgrounds, if you know what I mean. The worst times seem to be dawn and dusk, since these little biters are more active when it is cooler and the air’s calmer. Think sunset walks – romantic, yet risky for your ankles, for instance. The locals can provide assistance in this area, which is why it is always recommended to get out and meet the locals and maybe visit where they live. Some have been living on the island all their lives.

Prevention? Loads of it! First up, insect repellent with DEET is basically a tourist’s best buddy here. Lather that on before you head out, mostly on your legs and ankles, you know? If you know you’re going to be chilling on the sand, it is often worth throwing down a beach mat or a big towel – making a barrier could assist. Also, think about what you wear; long sleeves and pants, which might be not what you want to hear, yet they offer much better protection, particularly in the prime biting hours. Just imagine sitting there for an hour at sunset; it would probably take weeks before the marks faded.

Final Verdict: Should You Do This Tour?

Right, boiling it down – is the Postcards of Boa Vista 4×4 Tour something you want to go on? So, I would argue yes, with some caveats. You will get out to experience more of Boa Vista, see its stark beauty, and taste a little piece of island life, at least for a few hours. Just be prepared for some rough and ready adventure. However, if the sound of getting jostled around in a jeep and a little bit of dust ruins your vibe, think this over first, basically. Also be ready for those sand fleas. Seriously, just accept there’ll be loads.