Raso Lark and Cape Verde Storm-Petrel Expedition
An adventurous March 2027 island-and-sea expedition linking Sao Vicente, Sao Nicolau and Raso for Raso Lark and Cape Verde seabirds.
About this tour
Travel from Sao Vicente to Sao Nicolau, then attempt the weather-dependent boat crossing to Raso for one of Cape Verde's most localized endemics: Raso Lark. Hadoram Shirihai leads this small expedition for experienced birders and photographers from 7 to 14 March 2027.
Raso Lark is the central land target. When sea conditions permit, the boat work may also use chumming and an oil drip to search for Cape Verde Storm-Petrel and other pelagic birds. Red-billed Tropicbird, Cape Verde Shearwater, Boyd's Shearwater and additional Atlantic seabirds may be encountered, but neither the Raso landing nor any wildlife sighting can be guaranteed.
The base price includes guiding, accommodation and land transport. The Raso boat operation costs an additional GBP 280 per person and is paid locally only if weather allows the trip to run. The planned route uses the Sao Vicente-Sao Nicolau ferry and then continues by ferry from Sao Nicolau to Praia on Santiago.
Planning a wider trip? Read our birdwatching guide to Cape Verde.
Itinerary
Day 1
Sao Vicente to Sao Nicolau
Meet in Sao Vicente and travel by ferry to Sao Nicolau, subject to the confirmed sailing schedule and operating conditions.
Day 2
Sao Nicolau birding and Raso weather window
Base on Sao Nicolau while the guide and boat crew identify a safe opportunity for the Raso crossing. Land birding and timing are adapted to current access and weather.
Day 3
Raso Lark and pelagic search attempt
If sea conditions allow, travel by small boat to seek Raso Lark. Pelagic work may include chumming and an oil drip for Cape Verde Storm-Petrel and other seabirds. The trip will not operate when conditions are unsafe.
Day 4
Ferry onward to Praia
Continue from Sao Nicolau by ferry to Praia on Santiago according to the confirmed inter-island schedule.
Locations & map
- Sao Vicente - Sao Vicente Cape Verde (Starting point for the inter-island expedition.)
- Sao Nicolau - Sao Nicolau Cape Verde (Island base for the weather-dependent Raso attempt.)
- Raso - Ilhas do Barlavento Cape Verde (Remote, exposed and reachable only when the boat and sea conditions are safe.)
- Praia, Santiago - Santiago Cape Verde (Planned end point following the inter-island ferry connection.)
Availability & pricing
Availability is confirmed after your inquiry.
Included
- Birding guidance by Hadoram Shirihai
- Required accommodation
- Land transport for the program
Not included
- Weather-dependent Raso boat operation at GBP 280 per person
- International and inter-island flights
- Lunch and dinner
- Travel insurance and personal expenses
Transport & stays
- Inter-island ferries and small local boat Ferry sequence links Sao Vicente, Sao Nicolau and Praia. The Raso boat attempt is an extra charge and operates only in safe conditions. | Meet: Sao Vicente | Pickup: Final ferry and hotel arrangements are confirmed after inquiry.
Policies & FAQ
Cancellation Policy
Payment Terms
Insurance & Safety
Is the boat trip to Raso guaranteed?
No. It operates only if the guide and crew judge the weather, swell and vessel conditions safe. The additional charge is paid locally only if the trip runs.
Are Raso Lark and Cape Verde Storm-Petrel guaranteed?
No. Raso Lark depends on reaching the island safely, and all pelagic sightings depend on sea conditions and bird activity.
Send inquiry
Ask about this tour before booking. Your preferred date is optional and availability will be confirmed after your inquiry.