Exceptional wildlife

In the northern part of the island, you can spot sea turtles. In the south, you’ll have the privilege of standing with one foot in each hemisphere on the islet of Das Rolas and taking a dip at Praia Piscina. For hiking enthusiasts, there’s nothing quite like an adventure to the peak of São Tomé, which rises to an altitude of 2,024 meters. Relax on a deserted beach or let yourself be swept away by the vibrant energy of the most unexpected places.

Considered a global biodiversity “hotspot,” the islands are remarkable for the richness and variety of their flora and fauna. Their forests have been ranked as the second largest in Africa. Currently, São Tomé and Príncipe’s biodiversity consists partly of native and endemic species. There are 895 plant species, 400 of which are endemic. There are also 63 species of birds (25 endemic), 16 species of reptiles (7 endemic), and 9 species of amphibians (all endemic). São Tomé and Príncipe is considered one of the world’s richest countries in terms of endemism. Interesting, isn’t it?

Turtles are now a highly protected species in São Tomé. Years of intense hunting—whether for their meat or for their shells, which are used to make various objects—have brought this species to the brink of extinction. The Tatô program is dedicated to the protection, conservation, and study of sea turtles. Thanks to this program, visitors can observe the nesting process from September through April, accompanied by technicians and specialized guides who take care not to disturb the animals. Praia Inhame and Praia Jalé, in the south, are among the best spots to witness this extraordinary event. In the north, at Morro Peixe, is the Tatô Museum, where you can also see turtles.

Between November and March, hawksbill and leatherback turtles come by the hundreds to lay their eggs on the beaches of Príncipe Island. Since the nests are protected, be sure to book a guided tour at Praia Grande, in the south of the island. Here, dedicated park rangers protect the eggs from predators and take visitors on nighttime flashlight walks where, with a little luck, you can see the females laying eggs or the hatchlings emerging from their shells. Amazing!

The cetacean family is well represented in São Tomé and Príncipe. Humpback whales (Megaptera novaenglaea) visit our waters between June and December, often accompanied by their calves. Groups of dolphins can also be spotted, although less frequently. Best time to visit: June through December.

These islands, with their humid equatorial climate, attract all kinds of species. Coconut palms, other palm trees, baobabs, and mangroves line the entire coastline of the archipelago. Thanks to this climate, São Tomé and Príncipe boasts a dense, lush, and humid forest, fed by numerous rivers. Tourists can’t resist the lure of diving in the crystal-clear, warm sea.

In the village of Malanza, don’t miss the traditional canoe ride up the Malanza River, home to the country’s largest mangrove area. Protected by Obô Natural Park, this ecosystem is characterized by its semi-aquatic trees with aerial roots. Endemic and migratory birds are common here, as are monkeys. It is also home to the famous “cucumbas,” a bizarre fish capable of living out of water by leaping from root to root. The tour lasts two hours and begins at the bridge between the Malanza River and Porto Alegre. For more information and reservations, contact Mr. Vadu at 9917602.