Feb 4, 2026Murdeira property investment: an undervalued opportunity on Sal Island
Murdeira property investment is increasingly on the radar of international investors seeking undervalued opportunities in Cape Verde’s booming real estate market. Located between Espargos and Santa Maria, Murdeira offers a quieter, more exclusive coastal environment while remaining strategically close to the island’s major tourism hubs.
Why Murdeira remains undervalued compared to Santa Maria
A calmer coastal environment with long-term growth potential
While Santa Maria has grown into the centrepiece of Sal’s tourism sector, Murdeira maintains a serene residential feel. Its natural bay, low-density architecture and protected landscapes represent long-term assets for property value stability.
Investors increasingly view Murdeira as the next logical development zone, particularly as Santa Maria becomes saturated and infrastructure expands northward.
Price gap creating strong upside
The price differential between Santa Maria and Murdeira remains notable, leaving substantial upside as demand shifts. Villas and apartments in Murdeira offer larger surfaces and better sea access at prices well below Santa Maria’s beachfront units.
Types of properties available for Murdeira property investment
Villas overlooking Murdeira Bay
Murdeira is best known for its elegant residential villas with panoramic bay views. These properties benefit from privacy, generous plots and direct access to the coastal walkway. They attract both long-stay tourists and digital nomads seeking tranquillity.
Low-density apartment complexes
Small condominium blocks provide attractive rental potential, especially as demand grows for mid-range accommodations outside Santa Maria. Investors appreciate the low maintenance costs and stable occupancy rates.
Resort-style residences
Several planned projects are expected to bring new amenities such as pools, restaurants and wellness areas — a key factor driving appreciation in emerging Cape Verdean real estate zones.
Analysing demand drivers in Murdeira
Proximity to Sal’s hotspots
Murdeira sits only 10 minutes from both Santa Maria and the international airport, making it strategically positioned for tourism and residential growth. Its location on the main coastal highway ensures accessibility without the congestion of larger towns.
Rising eco-tourism and activity-based travel
The region is increasingly promoted for snorkelling, coastal hiking and wildlife observation. According to Lonely Planet, Sal Island’s nature-oriented tourism continues to expand, drawing visitors who prefer quiet waterfront areas like Murdeira.
Investment performance outlook
Rental yields
Murdeira rental yields are projected to rise as more travellers seek alternatives to Santa Maria’s crowded beachfront. Mid to long‑term rentals are particularly strong, with digital nomads forming a growing market segment.
Capital appreciation
The price gap with Santa Maria suggests significant room for appreciation. As infrastructure, restaurants and leisure facilities continue to develop, early investors stand to benefit.
How to invest in Murdeira
Choosing the right property
To explore available listings, investors can start with options such as the murdeira property investment portfolio on Buy in Cape Verde, which features curated villas and apartments in prime locations.
Legal and administrative considerations
Cape Verde offers a transparent, foreign-investor-friendly legal framework. Property registration is streamlined, and taxation remains favourable compared with many Mediterranean destinations.
Is Murdeira the smarter choice over Santa Maria?
For investors prioritising long-term appreciation, lower entry prices and natural surroundings, Murdeira represents a strong alternative to Santa Maria. While Santa Maria remains Sal’s tourism engine, Murdeira’s undervaluation — combined with increasing demand for quieter, premium coastal zones — positions it as one of the island’s most promising investment areas.
View selected investment-ready opportunities such as Murdeira Bay villas to assess potential returns.