FAQs
The answer is simple – use the ATM. There are currently 2 banks offering 5 ATMs all together and each dispenses local currency. Visa works best and Mastercard second best. Foreign banknotes including Dollars, Euro and Rand are not in demand and can be difficult to exchange. Large denominations of dollars can be exchanged on the street.
The main hotels and most restaurants now have POS machines (Flor de Rosa does not have POS). The island fuel station also accepts card payment.
Ilha Blue and Cafe Azulejo accepts Visa and Mastercard.
For attractions, barracas (local shack restaurants) and informal tours it is strictly cash payments.
Yes you can. In fact this is the method of payment we prefer in the shop.
Fishermen are the first to report the arrival of the whales which is generally late June/ early July. The whales are at their highest concentration (and most acrobatic) through August and September and start to leave early October.
“Welcome to the village.”
It’s the strong sense of community that makes Ilha the safest place you will ever visit. That’s worth repeating “the safest place you will ever visit”. So let go of your worries, wander the streets and alleys, day or night, with complete peace of mind.
This is a tricky one. If you are staying more than a week you have the flexibility to book tours and activities as you go. If your stay is only 2 or 3 days then you don’t want to risk missing out so book well in advance. Most people at least book a bike tour for the day they arrive or next morning (the perfect orientation to people and place). And we strongly recommend booking in advance during whale season as our boats usually get fully booked out.
Short answer – YES!
Many families visit Ilha, with stays of a week or longer becoming more popular. For teenagers there are all kinds of water based activities to keep them busy and smaller kids can just enjoy the friendly nature of this family focused place. It’s easy to make friends and everybody is watching out for the kids – just see how quickly little routines develop with visits to favourite shops, cafes, beaches and other hangouts.
Tours cancelled by you more than 24 hours before departure receive a full refund less 10% administration fee.
Payments made by credit card will incur a further 5% penalty. Tours cancelled during business hours on the previous day will receive a 60% refund.
Tours cancelled on the day of departure cannot be refunded.
There is no refund in the case of no-show. 100% cancellation fees will apply.
Payment must be made before your tour departs.
Payments can be made in Cash (local currency or USD), Bank Transfer or Credit Card. For payment by credit card Ilha Blue Lda reserves the right to charge a levy of 5%. For payment by bank transfer please present Proof of Payment (POP) before tour departure. The payer is liable for all bank and related transaction charges.
Ilha Blue Island Safaris provides outdoor and nature-based activities and operates in all weather. However, severe weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances or circumstances beyond our control may force a cancellation. In this case, we will do our best to reschedule or provide an alternative tour. If this is not possible, you will receive a full refund.
There are inherent risks in adventure travel, which can lead to illness, injury, or even death. These risks are increased by the fact that we are in a remote location, with minimal medical facilities. The client assumes all such risks associated with participating in this tour(s). Ilha Blue Island Safaris strongly recommend all clients take out appropriate travel insurance prior to date of travel. Ilha Blue Island Safaris cannot be held responsible for any costs arising from such loss or injury.