An Island Paradise

Discover the capital with its colonial charm, explore unspoiled nature, wander through hidden valleys, spot endemic birds, discover secret beaches, watch sea turtles, cross the Equator, or dive in the ocean around the Sete Pedras Islands. Indulge in our Creole cuisine, as diverse as our country itself, with influences from Central Africa, Portugal, and Brazil.

The Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe is a small African island paradise bathed by the Gulf of Guinea. Its territory, with a total area of 991 km² and a population of approximately 213,000 (whose official language is Portuguese), consists of the island of São Tomé, the island of Príncipe, and several small islands of volcanic origin, although there are no longer any active volcanoes. The two main islands are separated by approximately 145 km.

The climate is hot and humid tropical. The average annual temperature ranges from 21°C to 29°C, with lows of around 18°C in areas with greater temperature variation and highs reaching around 32°C.

Bom Sucesso Mountain Forests The best way to explore the island’s mountain forests is to start at the Bom Sucesso Botanical Garden, located about 7 km from Monte Café. From there, you can set out on hikes along trails ranging from moderate to difficult in difficulty all the way to Obô Natural Park; it is recommended that you be accompanied by a qualified guide. In these mountain forests, several endemic species can be observed, including the São Tomé pigeon, the São Tomé sunbird, and the São Tomé oriole. Other species, such as the São Tomé oriole, the cencia, the tchin-tchin-tcholó, and the São Tomé gagá, are abundant there and easy to spot. During the hike, before entering the forest, you’ll cross farm fields where the serin is abundant, and you can also spot the white-eyed nectarinia, the white-bellied swallow, or hear the partridge singing.

Explore our forests and discover the rich landscapes of São Tomé and Príncipe. The journey to the island begins. It’s safe to say that Mother Nature was generous when she set out to create this green oasis in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. She sculpted aerodynamically shaped bays and coves; she sculpted slopes, hills, mountains, and peaks with exotic shapes; she endowed it with warmth, sunshine, and humidity; she carved cool waterways into rivers, lagoons, and waterfalls; and, as if to put the icing on the cake, she covered it all with a lush green mantle that is São Tomé’s hallmark: a virtually untouched paradise, the likes of which are rare in Africa and around the world. Nature is the magic word, the password that accompanies us wherever we go in São Tomé. If there are places where the expression “green, how I love you, green” takes on its full meaning, it is certainly here.

To the north of the island of São Tomé lies the fishing village of Micoló. Along the main avenue by the sea, there are several small traditional restaurants where you can enjoy grilled seafood, tapas, and other traditional dishes.

Nestled among mountains, valleys, and impressive waterfalls, Roça Monte Café is one of the oldest plantations in the archipelago (founded in 1858). It is home to the country’s largest Arabica coffee plantation and a coffee museum.

Ilhéu das Rolas (the center of the world) is a small, lush patch of land with a paradisiacal setting, dotted with lookout points offering a variety of panoramic views. The whale-watching route is one of the main attractions during the migration season (September–December). The Equator Marker is located about a half-hour walk away along a steep path; a mosaic world map and a marker indicate the Equator, marking the center of the world, where you can stand in both hemispheres at the same time.

The island of Príncipe, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 2012, preserves a magnificent heritage—a treasure trove of biodiversity and endemism unique in the world. Príncipe’s natural heritage has a long history in the annals of global science. In 1919, physicist Arthur Eddington conducted the historic experiment at Roça Sundy that would prove Einstein’s theory of relativity.

The golden-sand beaches of São Tomé and Príncipe are among the archipelago’s most picturesque sights. Although the country is best known for its dark-sand beaches—a result of the islands’ volcanic origins—there are several coves and bays with light-colored or golden sand, typically formed by coral deposits or lighter-colored sediments.

Here are some of the best-known ones:

• Praia das Conchas (São Tomé Island): Light-colored sand and calm waters, perfect for relaxing. Surrounded by lush vegetation.

• Praia dos Tamarindos (São Tomé Island): Golden sand and crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming.

• Praia Jalé (São Tomé Island): In addition to its light-colored sand, this is one of the most important sites for observing sea turtle nesting.

• Praia Inhame (São Tomé Island): Near the islet of Das Rolas. Golden sand, unspoiled surroundings, and a waterfront eco-lodge.

• Praia Café (Ilhéu das Rolas): Golden sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, ideal for swimming and diving.

• Praia Café and Praia Banana (Príncipe Island): On Príncipe, some of the most famous beaches feature light golden sand. Banana Beach, which resembles a banana when viewed from the sky, is one of the most photographed beaches in all of Africa.

Wild and Volcanic Beaches

São Tomé and Príncipe, in the heart of the Gulf of Guinea, boasts some of Africa’s most pristine coastlines. The archipelago was formed by a volcanic chain, which is evident in every detail: dark sand, basalt cliffs, and a sea that shifts from turquoise blue to emerald green.

Key features:

• Black volcanic sand: At spots like Praia das Conchas or Praia Piscina, the dark sand contrasts with the crystal-clear sea.

• Impressive rock formations: Solidified remnants of ancient eruptions create natural arches, natural pools, and steep cliffs.

• Wild and unspoiled: Many beaches are virtually deserted, surrounded by dense forests that offer a sense of complete seclusion.

• Warm water year-round: Thanks to the equatorial climate, the sea is always pleasant.

• Rich marine life: Corals, tropical fish, and sea turtles.

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 hopping from root to root. The tour lasts two hours and begins at the bridge over the Malanza River. For more information and reservations, contact Mr. Vadu at 9917602.

Roças (Former Plantations) The Roças are perhaps the most striking example of the country’s tangible heritage. These were large agricultural complexes established during the Portuguese colonial period for the production of cocoa and coffee. Some of the best-known ones include:

• Roça Agostinho Neto

• Roça Água Izé

• Roça Monte Café

• Roça São João dos Angolares Many of them feature guesthouses, restaurants, warehouses, and cocoa drying facilities, reflecting the country’s economic and social history.

Natural Heritage

São Tomé and Príncipe is one of the most biologically diverse countries in the world. Highlights:

• Obô Natural Park: Dense tropical forests, numerous endemic species.

• Ilhéu das Rolas: Equator marker.

• Pico Cão Grande: The country’s iconic rock formation.

• Beaches: Praia Jalé, Praia Inhame, Lagoa Azul.

The archipelago is considered a “natural laboratory of evolution” due to its unique flora and fauna.