Picture pale sand dunes, black volcanic rocks and an immense horizon… in the middle of the Atlantic. The Viana desert is one of Boa Vista's most photographed landscapes, and it lies less than ten kilometres from Sal Rei. Here is what to know before you go.
A desert born of the wind
The Viana desert is the result of a long journey: wind from Africa carries Saharan sand and deposits it little by little on this corner of the island. The result is a small desert barely five kilometres long and one wide, where pale sand mixes with black volcanic rock, with very little vegetation. The dunes shift slowly with the wind, and the landscape is never quite the same from one year to the next.
How to visit
| Option | What you get | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Car excursion | The scenery, photo stops and a local guide's commentary, with no effort | Families, the curious, anyone who prefers not to drive |
| Quad | The thrill of riding on the sand yourself, at your own pace | Thrill-seekers, couples, friends |
In both cases, stay on the permitted tracks and follow the instructions: the desert is a fragile natural environment. Your guide, or the pre-ride briefing for a quad, will tell you where to ride and where to stop.
Tips for photos and comfort
- Favour morning or late-afternoon light: shadows sculpt the dunes
- Protect your camera from sand: a closed bag or cover, and change lenses sheltered
- Sunglasses and a scarf: the wind lifts the fine sand
- Water and sunscreen: there is no shade among the dunes
- Closed shoes: the sand heats up fast and the black rocks cut
Frequently asked questions
How far is the Viana desert from Sal Rei?
Do I need a guide to visit Viana?
When is the best time to go?
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