Quad Adventure to Cabo Santa Maria Shipwreck on Boa Vista Island
Ride through volcanic landscapes and discover a legendary wreck on the shores of Boa Vista.
This Boa Vista quad tour to Cabo Santa Maria shipwreck takes riders across sand tracks, volcanic rock formations, and an acacia forest in just two hours of guided off-road riding. The route combines dramatic coastal scenery with one of Cape Verde's most photographed landmarks. It is suited to first-time quad riders and experienced adventurers alike, with a difficulty rating of easy.
Departing from Rabil, the second-largest settlement on the island, the route heads east toward the Atlantic coastline where Praia de Atalanta beach stretches out beneath an open sky. The Cabo Santa Maria vessel has rested on this beach for more than five decades, its rusted hull now inseparable from the identity of Boa Vista and Cape Verde as a whole.
After time at the beach for photographs and a moment to take in the surroundings, the route turns inland through a stark volcanic terrain that feels markedly different from the coastal sands. Riders pass through Floresta Clotilde, a native acacia tree forest, before completing the loop back to Rabil along the scenic Via Pitoresca.
Tour Highlights
Reach the iconic Cabo Santa Maria shipwreck, stranded on Praia de Atalanta beach for over 50 years and a defining symbol of Cape Verde.
Ride a single quad across varied terrain including sand tracks, volcanic rock, and shaded forest paths on an easy-rated route.
Pass through Floresta Clotilde, a rare acacia tree forest in the middle of Boa Vista's otherwise arid interior landscape.
Stop at the shipwreck beach with free time to explore and take personal photographs of this celebrated natural and cultural landmark.
Travel the scenic Via Pitoresca on the return leg, offering a panoramic perspective of Boa Vista's eastern interior.
Hotel pickup is included from major resorts across the island, making the departure process straightforward and convenient.
Itinerary
Your guide collects you from your hotel and transfers you to the departure point in Rabil village. The team provides a full briefing on the quad vehicle and safety instructions before setting off.
The route heads east from Rabil along sand and rock tracks that cut through Boa Vista's open terrain. The riding is easy and steady, giving riders a chance to settle into the vehicle as the landscape opens up toward the Atlantic.
The tour arrives at Praia de Atalanta, where the rusted remains of the Cabo Santa Maria lie on the sand. Riders have free time to walk around the wreck, enjoy the beach, and take photographs at their own pace.
Leaving the coast, the route crosses a surreal lunar landscape formed by ancient volcanic rock. The path then enters Floresta Clotilde, an acacia forest that provides a striking contrast to the open, sun-baked terrain on either side.
The final leg follows the scenic Via Pitoresca back into Rabil, completing the loop. After the tour concludes, you are returned to your hotel.
What Is Included
Included
- Single quad bike rental for the duration of the tour
- Local guide throughout the ride
- Hotel pickup and drop-off from participating resorts
- Safety briefing and instructions at departure point
Not Included
- Personal travel insurance
- Food and beverages
- Gratuities for the guide
- Items of a personal nature
Important Information
Ready to Explore Boa Vista by Quad?
Secure your spot on this off-road adventure to one of Cape Verde's most iconic landmarks. Places are limited, so early booking is recommended.
Book Now
