Situated in the Gulf of Guinea, just off the west coast of Africa, the island of Sao Tome makes up one of two islands that form Africa’s second-smallest country - Sao Tome and Príncipe. This volcanic island is the larger of the two islands and features dramatic natural scenery and a fascinating history. This undiscovered gem is known for its ecotourism, taking advantage of the lush, thick jungle, the breathtaking scenery, cascading waterfalls, and pristine black and white sand beaches. Visitors can enjoy an array of activities including boating, diving, snorkelling, jungle trekking, whale watching, fishing and exploring the town of São Tomé with its crumbling Portuguese architecture. Don’t miss a visit to the Obo National Park filled with over 60 varieties of exotic birdlife and beautiful untouched nature.
Porto Alegre is situated near the southern tip of Sao Tome Island off the west coast of Africa. Just under three kilometres from Ponta Homem da Capa, the southernmost point of the island, the village of Porto Alegre makes a great base for enjoying some of the best beaches on Sao Tome, as well as some rewarding excursions. The gorgeous beach of Praia Inhame features turquoise waters and thick jungle verging the golden sands and can be reached by a scenic, two-kilometre walking trail from Porto Alegre, though there is also an Eco Lodge positioned even closer to the seaside. Other key activities include trips across the Canal das Rolas to the spectacular islet of Ilheu das Rolas, and visiting the other scenic beach on the south coast, the highly-rated Praia Piscina.
Neves lies on the northwest coast of Sao Tome Island in the Gulf of Guinea off the west coast of Africa. A relatively developed town, Neves boasts a range of accommodation options and a bustling Fish Market, making it a good base for exploring the natural wonders of the island. Enjoy the golden beaches, where the waters teem with dolphins (especially between March and June) and fishermen go about their business in dugout canoes. Don’t miss the chance to stay at one of the attractive eco lodges in the area, such as Mucumbli – where it is possible to take tours of the island’s interior, viewing rocas (former colonial cocoa plantations), baobab trees and unspoiled stretches of jungle along the way. Finally, be sure to sample the seafood in Neves, which is always freshly caught.
Located just off the west coast of Africa, Príncipe is the smaller island of the two-island nation of Sao Tome and Principe. This lost world features coffee and cocoa plantations, fabulous sandy beaches and exotic jungle blanketing rugged landscapes inhabited by a host of endemic wildlife. This remote volcanic island is also home to various unique birdlife such as the Principe spierops, golden weaver and sunbird. For adventyre seekers and nature lovers alike, there are several activities to look forward to, including excellent snorkelling, diving, bird watching, and fishing. Must-do activities include spotting triggerfish and turtles in the underwater wonderland around Jockey Cap Island; visiting the unspoilt Praia Banana, the most famous beach on Príncipe; and exploring the surrounding islets which form part of the UNESCO designated Island of Príncipe Biosphere Reserve.
Set along the beautiful Ana Chaves Bay in the northeast of Sao Tome Island, the national capital of Sao Tome is known for its idyllic setting and faded grandeur. This town retains an endearing charm, featuring old Portuguese buildings lining almond tree-fringed streets, crumbling colonial churches, pink palaces and once cascading fountains. Visitors can look forward to visiting the Roca Belo Monte, a notable historic site; strolling along the Ilheu das Rolas Beach; viewing the Presidential Palace; exploring the Fort de Sao Sebastiao, and discovering the Cathedral of Sao Tome.
