Virtually unknown and little visited, this tiny island nation offers a tropical castaway experience that seamlessly blends old world charm, pristine natural beauty, and an adventurous getaway. Consisting of two archipelagos around the two main islands of São Tomé (population 200 000) and Príncipe (population 7000) roughly 140km apart. Perched on the equator and located 320 km off the coast of West Africa in the Gulf of Guinea, this is truly an unspoilt destination waiting to be explored.
Island Travel
Sustainability and conservation are the two watchwords of tourist development on this island nation. Verdant jungle, fantastic beaches, friendly people and extremely low tourist volumes make this a unique destination in our frenetically high paced world. Car rental and taxis are available for transportation around the limited road system and a regular air service provides a connection between São Tomé and Príncipe. Though limited, a handful of accommodations ranging from quaint to luxurious, are available in spectacular locations.
Island Experience
São Tomé is the larger of the two islands and the small but bustling capital of São Tomé City is the major population center. Located just north of the equator, both mountainous islands are predominantly covered with rich jungle vegetation with a scattering of Cocoa plantations. Relatively unknown among tourists, this modern-day Robinson Crusoe experience offers warm equatorial waters providing a paradise for swimming, snorkeling, diving and fishing. The breathtaking mountainous interiors on the other hand offer tropical jungle hikes, waterfalls and incredible bird watching. Discovering the islands in the 1470’s, the Portuguese used them as a slaving station and the rich volcanic soil made for vast and productive sugar, coffee and Cocoa plantations. Poignant remnants of that history are visible today, waiting to be explored and discovered.
Information & Videos
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