São Tomé and Príncipe – A Twitchers Gem
Sometimes referred to as ‘The African Galápagos’ for its rich and unique biodiversity, São Tomé and Príncipe is a birdwatcher’s playground, offering exceptional opportunities to spot the islands’ 29 endemic bird species. Among these rare species are the world’s largest weaver and sunbird, remarkable for their size and striking colours and behaviours. The lush tropical rainforests combined with the volcanic rocky inlets and mountains provide the perfect habitat for these amazing birds, and even better that there is so little development and human activity, leaving the wildlife undisturbed and thriving.
Principe Speirops
Best places to see birds:
Príncipe
The southern forests with a local guide will be most productive. The terrain is hard going, but determined night-camping explorers will have a chance to see amazing species such as the Príncipe scops owl, Príncipe malachite kingfisher, Príncipe golden weaver, and Príncipe seedeater.
Principe Weaver
Northern São Tomé
The savannah zone with long dry grass and scrub is very different to the rest of the islands. On our recent trip, we saw flocks of black kites hunting prey escaping from grassland fires. Look out for the black-winged red bishop and the blue Waxbill.
Southern São Tomé
The forests in the south of São Tomé are home to the most threatened species. Dedicated birdwatchers should head to São Miguel in the southwest, where 20 endemics occur, including the elusive São Tomé fiscal shrike. The giant weaver and beautifully coloured giant sunbird will also be found in this part of the island.
Some of the birds which were spotted on our recent trip to the islands include:
Yellow-billed kite – The first species you will probably encounter is the yellow-billed kite circling Ana Chaves Bay in São Tomé city looking for fish scraps!
African grey parrot and blue-breasted kingfisher – On jungle treks, the distinctive screech of the inquisitive parrot is in sharp contrast to the statuesque shimmering kingfisher.
Principe Blue-breasted Kingfisher
Cattle egret – Easy for the non-specialist to spot with its white plumage and distinctive yellow beak.
São Tomé grosbeak – Not seen for 100 years, this largest species of seedeater was considered extinct until it was spotted in 1991 and first photographed in 2006. The species is now classed as Critically Endangered and needs conservation action to help protect it from becoming extinct once more.
São Tomé prinia – A much-loved endemic bird which is small and very vocal. Its local name, which refers to its early morning habit of appearing to clap its wings, translates as ‘Greetings to God ‘
São Tomé oriole – Locally known as Papa Figos, this bird is more difficult to find with its broad red beak and yellow tipped tail, but it does respond to imitations of its distinctive melodic call.
Príncipe scops owl – We spent three soggy hours trekking through the jungle in the dark but were rewarded by a sighting of this stunning small owl responding to our calls.
Príncipe scops owl
Don’t forget:
Binoculars – bring a good pair of binos with you for the best bird spotting. Many of São Tomé and Príncipe’s birds are found high in the canopies and amongst the thick vegetation, so having a good pair will give you a better chance to spot the rare and extraordinary species.
Waterproofs and sturdy shoes – the lush, green landscapes of the islands are thanks to frequent tropical rain showers. The rain won’t stop for those walking to see the wildlife, so pack waterproofs, good shoes, and be prepared for sudden showers and muddy, uneven, and difficult walking conditions. A walking stick is a bonus too for areas of difficult terrain.
Torch – in case you walk in the dark.
Photo credit: Scott Ramsay
Books to take:
- ‘Avitopia – Birds of São Tomé and Príncipe’ by Wolfgang Daunicht. This book introduces the birdlife of São Tomé and Príncipe and highlights the best spots for birdwatching.
- ‘The Birds of São Tomé and Príncipe’ by AP Leventis details 95 bird species and subspecies found on the islands, including the many endemic species, covering facts from breeding to conservation status.
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 island
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.
What next?
We would be delighted to help with planning your a safari holiday to include Africa’s big cats. Our team of experts has travelled widely throughout Africa and the Indian Ocean and can offer expert advice. Do get in touch – chatting to people by phone or email is what we do best. We listen, we explain, we answer all sorts of questions even those you didn’t know to ask, and finally we make suggestions. If this is your first time to Africa or your twenty first, we have a team standing by to help make the planning easy and the journey the best ever. Please get in touch whatever stage you’re at.
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Hippos on a walking safari, South Luangwa, Zambia, 
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