ABOUT US
Sanzala Travels is a sustainable tourism agency founded by a São Toméan immigrant in Germany. We specialise in tailor-made experiences at São Tomé and Príncipe, with a focus on Príncipe Island. We offer a unique blend of pure and affordable luxury, creating bespoke journeys that address your customisable needs.
Our mission is to provide authentic and conscious experiences while promoting responsible tourism. We prioritise the preservation of local culture, biodiversity, and natural resources, creating economic opportunities for local communities. Through partnerships with local stakeholders, NGOs, and authorities, we foster sustainable development and encourage low-impact travel practises. Our goal is to position São Tomé and Príncipe as a one-of-a-kind, sustainable destination, offering luxurious, personalised experiences that celebrate the island’s stunning landscapes, rich culture, and exceptional hospitality.
Our definition and objectives are a reflection of our mission as a company, while at the same time reflecting and recognising the perspective and experience of its founder:
As a travel agency operating in São Tomé and Príncipe (STP), we realise our responsibility to promote sustainable tourism practises that protect the islands' natural environment, support local communities, and preserve cultural heritage. For more information, please cheque our information about travelling sustainably in STP as well as our ‘Sustainable Travel Policy’.
‘Affordable luxury’ is a concept that blends high-quality and premium experiences with reasonable pricing. It's about providing travellers with services that exude a sense of luxury, elegance, or indulgence, but without the exorbitant price tags typically associated with luxury experiences. Unlike many other operators who specialise in luxury holidays in large resorts, we aim to show you the real São Tomé and Príncipe. We are happy to plan a trip for you where you will stay in in local guesthouses or apartments and interact directly with locals for an authentic experience that also directly supports the community in STP.
Varied trips for different needs
We believe it is very important to personalise our service for our customers and respond to their needs and wishes. That is why we take the time to discuss personal wishes and concerns and do everything we can to offer you the best possible service. Whether you are travelling alone, with your family, as a couple, with a group of friends or in any other constellation, we will be happy to design a tailor-made trip for you!
Expert location knowledge
We pride ourselves on having expert location knowledge for various reasons. First and foremost, our founder, Yoavi dos Santos, was born and raised in STP and has always kept a strong bond with his home country. Over the years, he has used his connections in the travel and gastronomy sector as well as in politics in STP to establish a strong network that he can now rely on at any time. Last year, he supported the founding of an agency for unique travel adventures on Príncipe - Bússola Adventures. With the help of Bússola Adventures as a strong local partner and in close cooperation, Sanzala Travels creates one-of-a-kind and customised trips with a focus on Príncipe Island.
Our founder, Yoavi dos Santos, was born and raised in São Tomé and Príncipe, and his deep connection to the islands allows us to offer unmatched expertise.
Over the years, Yoavi has built a strong network across the travel, gastronomy, and political sectors in STP.
Last year, Yoavi helped found Bússola Adventures on Príncipe Island. In partnership with this local agency, we create unique, tailored travel experiences focused on Príncipe, ensuring that you get a one-of-a-kind adventure with insider knowledge and exclusive access.
