Private secrets of Sal 4x4 tour with Pedra da Lume salt lake

Inland Sal's desolate beauty offers a dramatic contrast to its glistening coastline. This private off-road safari explores Murdeira Bay, the Buracona lagoon, the ocean-like sands of Terra Boa and Pedra de Lume. And beyond these popular sights, you'll also get a glimpse of local life in Palmeira and Espargos. Rodrigo, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘I've lived on Sal all my life, and I'm still fascinated by my island's colourful street art. It's a vivid reflection of our culture and our daily lives.'

Starting with a pit stop at Murdeira Bay, you'll trundle off in a closed 4x4 – we're the only ones using covered off-roaders – to the fishing village of Palmeira on the west coast. Its palm tree-lined streets are dotted with mural-painted cafés and tiny shops. Rodrigo says, ‘Palmeira's kaleidoscopic – and cluttered – souvenir shops are an attraction in themselves.' Then it's on to the Buracona lagoon, famed for how it shimmers when hit by sunlight.

Next, you'll witness the ocean-like sands and mirage of Terra Boa. An optical phenomenon, in which hot rays of light reflect distant objects and the sky, creates the illusion of a desert lake. Back on the road, there's a pit stop at a viewpoint, where you can enjoy an elevated panorama of Espargos, the island's capital. Wind down with a natural spa treatment in the Dead Sea-like lagoon of Pedra de Lume. Floating in one of the world's saltiest waters and inside an extinct volcano crater is a buoyant way to end the tour.