Visit Assomada : Rural Mantaba community – Authentic Experience with local family
Mantaba Experience – Authentic Rural Life in Santiago, Cape Verde
Step beyond the usual and connect deeply with the soul of Cape Verde through an exclusive, immersive experience with a local family in the heart of Santiago Island.
This carefully curated full-day journey offers a rare opportunity to experience rural life firsthand — from walking through lush plantations to harvesting fresh ingredients and preparing a traditional meal together
Guests are welcomed not as visitors, but as part of the family.
Highlights include:
• Guided exploration of tropical crops and traditional farming practices
• Hands-on participation in harvesting and cooking
• Authentic Cape Verdean lunch (including cachupa)
• Cultural immersion through music, storytelling, and local traditions
• Meaningful interaction with the host community
Read your Programme:
Experience Type:
Cultural, Rural, Immersive
Duration: Full Day
Departure Location: Praia or Tarrafal
08:30 – Departure from Praia/Tarrafal
* Hotel pick-up or meeting point collection
* Comfortable transfer to Mantaba (interior of Santiago Island)
* Brief introduction during the journey about the region and Cape Verdean rural life
09:30 – Arrival in Mantaba & Welcome
* Warm welcome by the host family
* Welcome drink: fresh seasonal natural juice
* Introduction to the property and local way of life
10:00 – Guided Visit to the Plantations
* Walk through the surrounding agricultural areas
* Discover local crops such as:
Banana trees, papaya trees, avocado trees, and lemon trees
* Cassava, cabbage, potatoes, beans, corn, and sugar cane
* Explanation of traditional farming techniques
* Visit to the natural spring water source flowing from the rocks
11:30 – Hands-On Activities
* Harvesting fresh produce directly from the land
* Participation in the preparation of a traditional meal
* Direct interaction with the host family
13:00 – Traditional Lunch
* Tasting of typical Cape Verdean dishes
* Highlight: Cachupa or another local specialty
* Meal prepared with fresh ingredients from the property
14:30 – Cultural Experience & Social Gathering
Time to connect and interact with the family
Presentation about:
The history of Cape Verde
* The reality of the local community
Cultural demonstration featuring:
* Traditional music
* Local stories and storytelling
* Cape Verdean traditions
16:00 – Free Time
* Relax in the peaceful surroundings of the property
* Opportunity to enjoy the swimming pool
* Quiet atmosphere immersed in nature
17:00 – Return to Praia:
* Transfer back to the hotel
* Expected arrival in the late afternoon
Included:
* Round-trip transportation (Praia – Mantaba – Praia)
* Accompanying guide
* Welcome breakfast (Cachupa + natural juice)
Traditional lunch
* Cultural and hands-on activities
* Authentic experience with a local family
6 hours
€110
Assomada Rural : Autentic Tabugal Experience, grogue tasting and green valley walking
Discover the essence of Tabugal, in Santa Catarina, through an authentic cultural and rural experience.
This tour offers direct contact with the local community, allowing visitors to explore agricultural traditions, walk through the beautiful Tabugal valley, and learn about the region’s history and colonial heritage.
During the experience, participants will be able to:
• Meet local farmers and experience rural lifestyles
• Take part in traditional farming activities
• Enjoy a guided walk through the Tabugal valley
• Taste artisanal grogue and local products
• Discover stories and the cultural heritage of the community
Ideal for visitors seeking nature, culture, authenticity, and genuine human experiences in Cabo Verde.
8 hours
€80
7-Day Santiago Island Package – Tarrafal Accommodation, Excursions & Transfers
Discover Santiago Island, Cabo Verde with our all-inclusive 6-day package, including Tarrafal accommodation (with or without pool), 3-day guided excursions, and transfers. Perfect for travelers seeking stress-free planning, comfort, and adventure, this package lets you explore mountains, coasts, historical sites, local villages, and enjoy the island’s largest beach for swimming and relaxation.
Relax at Tarrafal Beach, the largest on Santiago Island, or take scenic drives to other black and white sand beaches, making this package ideal for those who want a mix of adventure and beach leisure.
8 hours
€920
Fogo Island Full-Day Tour – Including Chã das Caldeiras
Explore the dramatic landscapes of Fogo Island on a full-day guided tour, with a special focus on the unique Chã das Caldeiras volcanic caldera. Witness the contrast between the fertile lava fields, traditional villages, and the impressive crater of the active volcano. This tour is ideal for cruise passengers or day visitors who want to experience the essence of Fogo in one day.
Enjoy scenic drives, breathtaking viewpoints, and cultural insights into the island’s wine production, coffee plantations, and local communities. Capture photos of the volcanic landscape and explore the picturesque village life nestled within the caldera.
8 hours
€90
Santo Antão Full-Day Sightseeing by Private Transport
Explore the main sights of Santo Antão on a full-day tour with easy access points. Visit Ribeira Grande, Ribeira do Paúl, Fontainhas, and scenic plateaus from the comfort of a car or minivan.
This tour is ideal for visitors who want to see the island’s highlights without long walks, enjoying stunning landscapes, photo stops, and local culture along the way.
9 hours
€90
São Vicente Island Tour – Full Day Including Baía das Gatas (Shared Cruise Excursion)
Join fellow cruise passengers on a shared full-day excursion around São Vicente. Starting from the port of Mindelo, this guided tour takes you through the island’s cultural highlights and stunning landscapes. From the colonial charm of Mindelo to the breathtaking views at Monte Verde, and from the relaxing waters of Baía das Gatas to the volcanic scenery of Calhau, this excursion is designed for cruise guests who want to see it all at an affordable price.
Enjoy the comfort of a professional driver/guide, meet other travelers from your ship, and make the most of your day on São Vicente.
7 hours
€90