This off-the-beaten-track gem offers an almost Polynesian experience in the Gulf of Guinea. The two main volcanic islands of this little country have sharp rainforest-clad peaks, paradisiacal beaches, and a plethora of endemic birds and plantlife. For anyone seeking a low-key, out-of-the-way tropical idyll, Sao Tome and Principe may be just the ticket.
The rugged islands were uninhabited prior to their discovery in the late 1400s by Portuguese mariners. And for much of their history under Portuguese control, they produced sugar, coffee, and other commodities and also served as stopover points for the transatlantic slave trade.
Natural wonders and outstanding tropical scenery are perhaps the country’s foremost draws. While you won’t find the big, flashy mammals of the African mainland here, you will be amongst some precious endemic flora and fauna; as in Hawaii, the Galapagos, and Madagascar, the geographic isolation of Sao Tome and Principe has allowed birds, amphibians, plants, and other organisms to evolve into unique forms.
Both islands contain luxurious primary rainforest that escaped clearing on the rugged mountain slopes. Treks through the Obo National Park (which includes acreage on both islands) may turn up glimpses of native birds and representatives of some 100 species of scene-stealing orchids. The park includes beautiful peaks such as the volcanic spire of Pico Cao Grande and the country’s highest point, 6,640-foot Pico de Sao Tome (both on Sao Tome Island); the latter is a fine destination for adventure trekkers, generally requiring two days to summit. Back at sea level, diving and snorkeling opportunities are extensive, and humpback whales cavort around the islands between July and October.
Sao Tome and Principe’s more developed areas have their own charms, whether it’s lounging on (often) uncrowded beaches; taking in the colonial architecture and the national museum of the capital, Sao Tome; or touring one of the historic cocoa or coffee plantations, such as Roca de Monteforte.
Discover vistas straight out of a tropical dream in Sao Tome and Principe. These dramatically sculpted islands give even the legendary landscapes of Fiji or Kauai a run for their money.
11 things not to miss.
- Pico de São ToméHike Pico de São Tomé
- working cocoa plantationVisit a working cocoa plantation
- Príncipe's biosphere coastWalk Príncipe's biosphere coast
- Pico de Sao TomeCrown of the country and centerpiece of Obo National Park, this 6,800-foot peak is a magnet for ecotourists and trekkers.
- Pico Cao GrandeAnother topographic highlight of Obo National Park, this volcanic pillar juts like a mighty fang from lush lowlands.
- Obo National ParkWith acreage on both main islands, Obo’s more than just peak-bagging: It’s an ecological treasure chest, from mangroves to cloud forest.
- Banana BeachDoze off with sand between your toes, listen to the sea breeze in the palms, snorkel among tropical fish—here’s one of the country’s most popular beaches.
- Boca de InfernoSerene beaches are all well and good—and Sao Tome & Principe has plenty—but this wild lava-rock blowhole cranks up the seacoast drama.
- National MuseumYou can bone up on Sao Tome & Principe history while admiring a 16th-century Portuguese fort at this oceanfront museum.
- Ilheu das RolasThis resort isle off Sao Tome seems to specialize in visions of paradise; it’s a great jumping-off point for snorkeling, whale-watching, and the like.
- Praia JaleDuring sea-turtle nesting season, you can stay overnight on this Sao Tome beach to witness the noble reptiles come ashore at night to lay their eggs.
