Local advice from Mayara, co‑founder of Logan Tours
Planning a 3-5 day itinerary on Sal Island can feel exciting and a little confusing at the same time.
When people arrive on Sal Island, I often see the same look on their face. A mix of excitement… and confusion.
The island feels calm, simple, almost quiet. And then the question comes:
“What should we actually do here for 3 to 5 days?”
As someone born in Cape Verde, who lived many years abroad and came back to build Logan Tours together with my partner, I want to take you with me… slowly into how Sal is best experienced. Not rushed. Not over planned. But well balanced.
This is not a checklist itinerary. This is local rhythm.
First, understand Sal’s pace when planning a 3-5 day itinerary on Sal Island
Sal is not an island where you wake up early every day to chase activities. The beauty is in the balance:
- A little exploration
- A little beach
- A little culture
- A lot of breathing space
With 3 to 5 days, you don’t need to do everything. You just need to do the right things.
Day 1 – Arrival & settling into island life on your Sal Island itinerary
Your first day should be gentle.
After landing, most travelers head straight to Santa Maria. This is where the island feels alive but still relaxed. Palm trees, pastel houses, salty air, and people who greet you without hurry.
My local advice:
- Check in
- Take a walk through Santa Maria village
- Sit at a beach bar with your feet in the sand
- Watch the fishermen bring in the catch of the day
No tours yet. Let the island introduce herself to you.
This is also the day many of our guests realize: Sal is simple, and that’s the luxury.
Day 2 – Discover Sal in one day (key highlights of a 3-5 day Sal Island itinerary)
If you only do one excursion on Sal, this should be it.
A full‑day island tour gives you context. You understand where you are, how people live, and what makes this island special.
On this day, you’ll experience:
- The salt flats of Pedra de Lume (floating inside an old volcano)
- Shark Bay, where lemon sharks swim calmly in shallow water
- Buracona and the Blue Eye (nature at its best)
- Local villages, not just tourist spots
Local tip: do this tour early in your stay. After this day, the island makes more sense and every beach day feels richer.
At Logan Tours, we always say: you enjoy Sal more when you understand Sal.
Day 3 – Beach, rest & small pleasures on Sal Island
After a full island day, slow down again.
This is Sal’s strong point.
- Santa Maria beach for swimming
- Kite Beach or Ponta Preta for watching surfers and kites
- A long lunch, no rush
In the afternoon, you might choose a small activity:
- Catamaran cruise
- Snorkeling
- A simple sunset walk
Nothing heavy. Nothing loud. Just island time.
Day 4 – Personalize your 3-5 day itinerary on Sal Island (or do nothing)
If you have 4 or 5 days, this is where personalization matters.
Some travelers want adventure:
Others prefer connection:
- A private horse riding at their own pace or a bit of adrenaline with zipline.
- More time in villages, more stories, fewer stops
And some guests choose the best option of all:
Doing absolutely nothing.
And that’s okay here.
Day 5 – Ending your 3-5 day Sal Island itinerary
Your last day is usually quiet.
Coffee by the sea. One last swim. Sand in your shoes that somehow always travels home with you.
Many guests tell me the same thing:
“We didn’t do that much… but it felt perfect.”
That’s Sal.
Why planning with locals makes a difference
Anyone can sell a tour.
What makes the difference is:
- Knowing when to go
- Knowing how long to stay
- Knowing what to skip
At Logan Tours, we don’t rush guests through Sal. We guide them through it, with respect for the island and the people who live here.
Whether you choose a group tour, a private experience, or just need advice on how to structure your days, our goal is simple:
That you leave feeling rested, connected, and already missing the island.
Final local advice
Sal doesn’t ask much from you.
Just time.
And when you give her that, she gives something back that’s hard to explain, but easy to feel.
If you’re planning your stay and want honest, local guidance, you’re always welcome to reach out.
👉 Plan your Sal Island experience with us: loganislandtours.com/our-tours
Whether it’s a full island tour, a private experience, or just advice to shape your days, we’re happy to guide you.
See you on the island,
Mayara | Co-founder, Logan Tours
Born in Cape Verde. Guided by the island.
