Monte Leão (Lion Mountain)
Monte Leão / Rabo de Junco
A volcanic hill on the west coast shaped like a crouching lion. At its foot, the bay of Rabo de Junco is a popular snorkelling spot, and the summit is a good place to watch the sunset.
Monte Leão sits on the north side of Baía da Murdeira. From the south it looks like a lion lying down, which gives it its name, and it is the most striking landmark on Sal's west coast. A gravel path leads up to the ridge, where you can look out over Murdeira Bay and the Atlantic. The round trip takes about 1 to 2 hours. At the foot of the hill, the clear waters of the small bay of Rabo de Junco are a favourite spot for snorkelling and seeing sea turtles. The summit offers no shade, and the loose gravel is slippery, so wear hiking boots and bring plenty of water. Keep away from the cliff edges when it is windy.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Murdeira Bay
- Palmeira
- Espargos
- Terra Boa Mirage
- Shark Bay (Baía da Parda)
- Serra Negra Nature Reserve
- Buracona & Blue Eye
- Ponta Preta