Salina, Sal Travel Guide

4.4 (92)

Discover the colorful salt flats of Santa Maria, Cape Verde, and uncover the fascinating history of Sal Island's salt industry.

Explore the historic salt flats of Salina in Santa Maria, Cape Verde, where salt production shaped the town's identity. Witness the colorful landscape and learn about the area's rich history.

A brief summary to Salina

J37V+3MQ, Unnamed Road, Santa Maria, CV

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Salina.

Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain around the salt flats.
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun's glare, as there is little shade.
Consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat.

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Explore Salina on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Salina, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the center of Santa Maria, the Salina is located a short distance to the northeast. Head north away from the main beach, and follow the road leading out of town. The salt flats will become visible on your left. The walk is relatively easy and takes approximately 15-20 minutes.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Santa Maria. A short taxi ride to the Salina will cost approximately 200-300 CVE. Confirm the price with the driver before starting your journey.

Discover more about Salina

The Salina, or salt flats, of Santa Maria offer a glimpse into the history of Sal Island and the town of Santa Maria. Founded in 1830, Santa Maria owes its existence to the exploitation of these natural salinas. For decades, salt was the island's primary export, shaping the local economy and community.Originally, enslaved people from nearby islands and the African mainland toiled in the harsh conditions to extract the valuable commodity. Salt production involved pumping seawater into shallow pans, allowing the sun and wind to evaporate the water, leaving behind the crystallized salt. This salt was then harvested and exported, primarily to Brazil.While large-scale salt production ceased in 1984, the Salina remains a distinctive feature of the landscape. Visitors can still witness the colorful salt pans and learn about the historical significance of the industry. The area provides a unique opportunity to connect with the island's past and appreciate the ingenuity and resilience of its people.