Gallop the Salt: A Private Horse Trail from Santa Maria’s Salt Flats to Kite Beach

SANTA MARIA HORSE FIELD GUIDE

Gallop the Salt: A Private Horse Trail from Santa Maria’s Salt Flats to Kite Beach

A 1.5‑hour, 7 km private horseback excursion in Santa Maria, Sal — guided, family‑friendly, and offering walking, canter and gallop options across salt pans and golden shoreline.

Gallop the Salt: A Private Horse Trail from Santa Maria’s Salt Flats to Kite Beach.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Santa Maria
Operator
Cabo Verde Tours
Category
Horse
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Set out from Santa Maria on a private 1 hour 30 minute horseback trail that begins across luminous salt flats and finishes on the vast sweep of Kite Beach. The route covers roughly 7 km and is run by local professional guides; riders of all levels can take part, with options to walk, canter or — for the most experienced — gallop through the surf.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE LANDSCAPE

Salt Flats & Golden Shoreline

The trail opens with a gentle passage across the Salt Flats of Santa Maria before giving way to an endless stretch of golden sand and the roar of the Atlantic at Kite Beach.

THE RIDE

Walk, Canter or Gallop

The excursion is paced for all skill levels: walking gait along the shore for less experienced riders under guide assistance, with opportunities for canter and for most experienced riders a chance to gallop through the surf.

THE LOGISTICS

Guided, Helmeted & Insured

The outing includes professional local guides, a comprehensive safety briefing, EU‑certified riding helmets (mandatory), hotel pickup and drop‑off, and insurance.

What the day feels like

How the trail unfolds

You begin with a measured, scenic trot across the salt pans that frame Santa Maria, then leave the flats and head up to Kite Beach for a seaside stretch. The trail covers approximately 7 km over about 1 hour and 30 minutes; throughout, guides manage pace and safety so riders can choose to relax at a walking gait or push to faster paces where conditions and skill allow.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this trail works for — and the small requirements to join.

1
Active FamiliesDescribed as suitable for all the family, the private trail is paced and guided to accommodate children and mixed ability groups.
2
Beginner RidersLess experienced riders can remain at a walking gait along the shore with assistance from guides, making this a good entry‑level beach ride.
3
Experienced RidersExperienced riders are offered opportunities to canter and, where conditions permit, gallop through the surf.
4
Helmet‑compliant RidersAll participants must wear EU‑certified riding helmets, which are provided and mandatory for the excursion.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Duration & Distance

The private excursion runs for 1 Hour & 30 Minutes and covers approximately 7 km.

What’s Included

Includes professional local guides, hotel pickup and drop‑off, a comprehensive safety briefing, EU‑certified riding helmets (mandatory), and insurance.

Horse & Pace

Rides are conducted at walk, canter and gallop paces depending on rider skill and beach conditions.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the excursion?

The trail lasts 1 Hour & 30 Minutes.

Where do we meet?

Meeting is at your accommodation/hotel; hotel pickup and drop‑off are included.

What riding paces are available?

The ride includes walking, canter and gallop paces; most experienced riders may gallop through the surf while less experienced riders remain at walking gait with guide assistance.

Are helmets provided?

Yes — EU‑certified riding helmets are provided and their use is mandatory.

Is the trail suitable for children and beginners?

Yes — the excursion is described as suitable for all the family and offers options for all skill levels.

What else is included with the ride?

The excursion includes professional local guides, a comprehensive safety briefing and insurance.