A guide to São Tomé & Príncipe
Calling all nature enthusiasts, adventurers, honeymooners, and anyone looking for somewhere a bit more off the beaten track. Experience a slice of untouched Africa on the islands of São Tomé and Príncipe. With lush rainforest where you’ll uncover long lost plantations from the country’s colonial past, and desert island-style beaches lapped by dazzling blue water, this remote corner of the world offers a holiday like no other. Explore local towns with bustling markets, meet the laidback ‘leve leve’ locals, or experience a taste of the island’s culinary delights. Here’s what makes Africa’s best kept secret so special.
São Tomé & Príncipe – A complete guide to Central Africa’s hidden gem
Colonised by the Portuguese in 1471, the islands became a major global producer of sugar cane, coffee, and cacao, earning its nickname the ‘Chocolate Islands’. The islands success was, however, built by enslaved Africans who endured centuries of brutal working conditions. With the abolition of slavery and in 1975 independence, São Tomé and Príncipe is now one of the safest and most welcoming destinations in Africa. The islands’ rich history is still visible with crumbling plantations (rocas) and the communities descended from those who once worked them. Guided tours of old plantations and the national museum give an insight into the country’s past, and the lucky few who visit the islands will get a unique and rich cultural experience.
Trek through the Roças, crumbling plantations
Picture walking into Jurassic Park with its dramatic mountains, lush green rainforests, and tropical beaches: take away the dinosaurs and you are in São Tomé and Príncipe, a tiny archipelago of two islands right on the equator. The north of São Tomé is largely savannah, while the south of the island and Príncipe is blanketed by lush jungle and volcanic mountains. The most impressive is the Pico Cão Grande, a 370 metres high column of magma over 3 million years old. Across both islands is the Ôbo National Park, rich in biodiversity and home to several endemic birds. Five turtle species nest on the islands, the most in all of Africa, and visitors can even assist with conservation efforts during hatching season. No wonder Soa Tome and Principe is sometimes referred to as ‘The African Galapagos’, with its wildlife, scenery, and untouched, pristine landscapes. The beaches are well hidden by thick jungle that goes all the way down to the sand and makes you feel like you are alone on the island – a desert island paradise.
Pico Cão Grande stands at an impressive 370 meters
Visiting both islands is a must, and it’s a short flight from São Tomé’s vibrant capital, aptly named São Tomé, to Príncipe. On arrival into either island, you will be met with the local ‘leve leve’ vibe, meaning ‘no stress – go with the flow’. São Tomé and Príncipe is one of the most welcoming destinations in Africa thanks to the friendly, charming local people, who are always excited to meet visitors. The small population creates a real community and an exclusive feel.
Meet the vibrant local community
Príncipe combines luxury with adventure, with properties like Bom Bom, a secluded beach lodge nestled between two beaches, a perfect base for beach flops or jungle treks. Sundy Praia is a beachfront eco-resort with 15 tented villas that resemble the dwellings of the fishing village that was once there. Roça Sundy, a former plantation house turned boutique hotel, lies deeper in the forest, and has its own organic farm, while nearby Roça Belo Monte, which is set to reopen in April 2026, offers access to the iconic Banana Beach, made famous by the 1991 iconic Bacardi advert.
Enjoy the sea views from your beach front villa at Sundy Pria
Over on São Tomé, Omali is a great base for exploring the island, with a shared swimming pool surrounded by tropical gardens. Book a tour of the capital, São Tomé, or venture out to the rainforest for a trek to the Pico Cão Grande, before returning for a seafood feast in Omali’s restaurant which is one of the best on the island. No matter where you stay, there is no shortage of activities – diving, surfing, trekking, fishing, turtle conservation, just to name a few.
Relax by the pool surounded by the lush gardens at Omali
Currency:
- São Tomé and Príncipe Dobra
- Euro
How to get there:
Fly via Lisbon to São Tomé International Airport – 6.5-hour flight with Air Portugal
Language:
- Portuguese
Essential packing list:
- Light clothing including waterproofs
- Sturdy shoes for walking and flip-flops
- Binoculars
Watch whales breaching
When to visit:
- August – September are prime whale watching months
- December – February are months to see turtles nesting and hatching
Managing Director, Alice, has been on the ground, personally exploring these stunning islands. Based on her trip, she’s designed two Aardvark Safaris suggested itineraries that she feels truly capture the absolute highlights of São Tomé and Príncipe.
- Explore the best of both islands in 14 days
- Short on time – this 8 day itinerary gives you a good rounded experience of both islands
Read more: Idyllic beaches of São Tomé and Príncipe – Fun facts about São Tomé and Príncipe – A guide to São Tomé and Príncipe
Listen: Our Managing Director, Alice, recently joined the Action Packed Travel Podcast to discuss one of Africa’s best-kept secrets: the enchanting islands of São Tomé and Príncipe.
Camel safari, Kenya, Laikipia, 
Luxury safari accommodation Waterberg, South Africa, 
Hippos on a walking safari, South Luangwa, Zambia, 
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