The white dunes
Fine sand rippled by wind.
StanleyMacCoy — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Felitsata — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Kojote — Public domain · Ingo Wölbern — Public domain
The Viana Desert is a sea of white sand in the north-west of Boa Vista, between Rabil and Sal Rei on one side and Bofarreira on the other. It is considered one of the seven natural wonders of Cape Verde, and its soft dunes look like a small slice of the Sahara set in the ocean. The desert itself is not protected, though it adjoins the Boa Esperança nature reserve, which includes Lagoa do Rabil and Atalanta beach. There is little recorded history here, as it is above all a natural sight. Boa Vista is known for its dunes and long beaches, and trips come here from Sal Rei on dirt roads. You walk on fine pale sand rippled by the wind, broken by small green bushes and yellow grasses in season. Dark volcanic hills on the horizon make a strong contrast with the white. In low light early in the morning or at sunset, shadows stand out on the dunes, the finest time to walk and take photos. The desert is 7.4 km in a straight line south-east of Sal Rei, reached by four-wheel drive or organised trip. Bring plenty of water, a hat and sunglasses, as sun and wind are strong. Do not wander far alone, as there is no shade, and avoid isolated places after dark. Do not drive on plants, and take your rubbish with you.
Fine sand rippled by wind.
A strong contrast on the horizon.
Clear shadows on the sand.
North-west Boa Vista island, east of Sal Rei
Not very, and a short trip from Sal Rei covers it.
A strong vehicle or organised trip is best because of the sand.