Príncipe Island:
the last hidden gem
Príncipe Island, regarded by many as one of the last hidden gems, is located off the coast of West Central Africa and is part of the twin island nation of São Tomé and Príncipe, Africa’s second smallest country. Príncipe, the smaller sister island of São Tomé, is renowned for its idyllic and pristine environment. It is considered even more beautiful than its big sister island. This fascinating island spans 142 km² and has a population of around 7,000. It boasts a unique and authentic character, shaped by a rich blend of influences from various countries, reflected in its language, culture, gastronomy, and traditions. Just a short 30-minute domestic flight from São Tomé, Príncipe is perfect for relaxing on stunning beaches. However, the island offers so much more than just beautiful beaches. Visitors can easily explore deserted farmsteads (called ‘roças’), cocoa plantations, and lush rainforests. Depending on where you are staying, there are various unforgettable activities and experiences for you to enjoy. To fully experience São Tomé and Príncipe, be sure to include Príncipe Island in your itinerary. You will be amazed!
Príncipe is a paradise especially for nature lovers and those seeking tranquillity amidst stunning landscapes. Its remoteness and volcanic origins have led to exceptionally high levels of endemism, with over 40 unique animal species found nowhere else on earth. In terms of nature conservation, Príncipe is the most advanced of the two sister islands. The small island boasts over 140 square kilometers of lush, diverse greenery. Around 53 percent of the island is designated as a natural park, providing a protected habitat for a wide array of wildlife. In 2012, Príncipe Island and its surrounding islets were confirmed as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO.
The island's capital, Santo António, is affectionately known as the smallest city in the world, with a population of just over 2,000 inhabitants. This charming city features numerous beautiful examples of colonial architecture.
The colonial-era ‘Roças’ offer a journey back in time, with old buildings, cocoa and coffee plantations, stunning sunset views, and abundant nature. The four most notable are Roça Sundy, Roça Belo Monte, Roça Paciência, and the largest, Roça Porto Real.
The first of them, Roça Sundy, was once the island’s largest cacao plantation. It was exactly here, where on May 29, 1919, British astronomers led by Arthur Eddington observed and photographed a total eclipse of the Sun, confirming Einstein's general theory of relativity for the first time experimentally. More than 100 years later, Roça Sundy has been elegantly refurbished into a charming boutique property that offers a nostalgic, step-back-in-time experience and allows you to experience a special flair of Príncipe. As part of their investment to transform the Roça into a hotel and a resort, the HBD group – the biggest investor in the island, for which many community members work for – agreed with the community to improve their housing and living conditions. The project “Terra prometida” aims to implement the voluntary and sustainable resettlement of the community of Roça Sundy into a new neighbourhood.
Situated on one of the most beautiful spots of Príncipe on a hill surrounded by rainforest, overlooking the flame trees and jungle canopy to the ocean, is Roça Belo Monte. As of 2014 the Belo Monte Hotel opened its doors in the renovated former plantation. Currently under renovation, it is set to reopen in September of 2024. The roça’s museum serves a starting point to various excursions that the hotel offers and gives you an insight into Príncipe’s stunning nature and unique culture.
A short distance away is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, ‘Praia Banana’ the Banana Beach, world-famous because Bacardi filmed the “Bacardi Feeling” TV commercial here in the 90s.
Another historical site is Roça Paciência. At the peak of Príncipe’s cacao exporting era, Roça Paciência operated as a satellite plantation of Roça Sundy. Today, the place is used for the production and marketing of artisanal organic products, such as coconut oil and chocolate. Weekend markets are also held there from time to time.
The largest of the former plantations is Roça Porto Real. Today, you can visit mystical places such as a former hospital whose buildings have been completely taken over by nature. Here you can also see the dramatic mountain peaks of Pico Papagaio, Picos João Dias Pai and João Dias Filho.
Another interesting historical point-of-interest is Ribeira Izé. It is believed to have been one of the first towns on the island of Príncipe. It was abandoned after some time because it was so easy for pirates to invade its shores in colonial times. As a result, there is practically nothing left, apart from a ruined church and the remains of a farmhouse. Besides visiting this old town of Ribeira Izé, you can visit the beach and the cave of the same name.
Apart from these historical sites, Príncipe has a lot to offer for nature lovers. O'Quê Pipi for example, which is one of the most beautiful waterfalls on the island. It has a natural pool that allows for cool and relaxing baths, with the right to be exfoliated by the island's prawns.
Príncipe's hotel landscape is dominated by the HBD Group. Apart from the already mentioned Roça Sundy, it includes the unique luxury resort Bom Bom Island, which is partly located on the offshore island of the same name (set to reopen in September 2024) as well as the newest and most exclusive luxury hotel on Príncipe, the Sundy Praia. However, we also recommend a stay in the various guesthouses and local apartments to come into direct contact with the warm-hearted locals and get to know the real, true Príncipe.
If you love beaches, make sure to visit these stunning spots: Praia Banana, Praia do Bom Bom, Praia Sundy, Praia Grande, Praia Macaco, Praia Boi, and Praia Burra. These are just a few options, but it's worth visiting them all!
You can also take a boat tour to Baía das Agulhas, a stunningly beautiful bay. It is one of the most beautiful boat trips on Príncipe Island. The tour offers breathtaking landscapes and pure nature surrounded by volcanic domes and peaks.
Between September and February, you are able to witness a special event at Praia Grande, but you need to get up early. Príncipe is an important breeding and feeding area for five of the seven species of sea turtles that exist in the world. At night, the female sea turtles come up onto the beach to leave their most precious possession, their nests, which will give rise to the next generation of turtles. After 2 months of incubation in the sand, the sea turtle hatchlings are born. With the help of a guide, you can experience this unique natural phenomenon up close.
These are just a few of the countless things to discover in the unique island paradise of Príncipe. Keep in mind that your trip to STP is only complete if you include Príncipe Island in your itinerary. We are sure you will love it!
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São Tomé North: enjoy beautiful views and exciting activities
The north of São Tomé is full of spectacular natural beauty and exciting activities.
São Tomé City is definitely worth visiting, and even spending a night or two. The city boasts charming colonial-era buildings, a relaxed atmosphere, manageable traffic, and friendly, non-intrusive locals.
When you venture out of São Tomé City, start with a visit to the Memorial of the Heroes of Freedom of São Tomé. This site honors the victims of the Batepá Massacre of 1953, a tragic and pivotal event in the country's history during its struggle for independence.
You can continue to Roça Agostinho Neto, the largest in São Tomé and Príncipe. Once the grandest, it is now one of several that have been abandoned, which in a way highlights its historical significance.
From there you can head to Praia do Governador and Praia dos Tamarindos for a refreshing swim. Next up, there is ‘Lagoa Azul’, the blue lagoon, situated near Neves. It’s a small cove with aquamarine water that you can also look at from above after a short walk up to the lighthouse. The lagoon is also known to be a snorkelling paradise.
Neves, a small village in the northwest of the island, is also a must-see. Among other things, it is the industrial district with several factories from beer to palm oil and more. You should not skip tasting the local cuisine at ‘Petisqueira Santola’, an inconspicuous and discreet wooden shack by the sea, where you can enjoy fresh, giant Santola spider crabs accompanied by a ‘Rosema’, the local beer, toasted bread and fried banana.
With a full stomach, you can happily continue to Mucumbli Ecolodge. Mucumbli is named after a large tree of medicinal interest that is also considered a magical. The Ecolodge is a real wellness place with great facilities, beautiful bungalows and a wonderful terrace.
Nearby is Roça Ponta Figo. After visiting the historic site, you can take a walk through the rainforest and discover the waterfall Angolar. Not too far away there is another stunning waterfall called ‘Cascata Nazaré’.
The Roça Diogo Vaz is one of the oldest on the island. Its cocoa forest covers more than 420 hectares. After its redevelopment in 2014, Roça Diogo Vaz received the Organic Farming certification and since then various awards stating that their chocolate is one of the best in the world.
From there, embark on a journey along what is hailed by experts as one of the most stunning roads globally, leading you to the Santa Catarina Tunnel. Be sure to pause and capture the breathtaking scenery, with palm trees and coconut palms lining the route, creating a truly picturesque landscape.
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São Tomé Center: immerse yourself in nature, history and culture
The ‘Jardim Botânico do Bom Sucesso’ (Botanical Garden of Bom Sucesso) is São Tomé and Príncipe's main botanical garden. This significant tourist attraction serves as the gateway to numerous hiking trails that wind through the island's mountainous interior.
It is worth visiting Roça Monte Café and explore the plantation's historical buildings, which include the original processing facilities and the plantation house, giving a glimpse into the colonial past and the traditional methods of coffee production. The farmstead also has a small museum that showcases the history of coffee cultivation on the island, along with exhibits on the local culture and agricultural practices. One of the highlights of visiting Roça Monte Café is the opportunity to see the coffee production process firsthand, from the growing and harvesting of coffee beans to their drying and roasting. Guests can also sample the locally produced coffee, which is renowned for its unique flavor and high quality.
It was here that the Batepá massacre took place in 1953, a tragic and significant event in the history of São Tomé and Príncipe, which took the life of more than 1,000 people. Today, the Batepá Massacre is remembered as a pivotal moment in the history of São Tomé and Príncipe's fight for independence.
To restore your energies, visit the São Nicolau Waterfall, which has a waterfall about 20 meters high. From there you can also head to the Amélia Lagoon and Roça Bombaim, with another stunning waterfall.
To immerse yourself in the country's culture and art, visit the nearby Casa Museu Almada Negreiros. Located near the Obô Natural Park, this museum was founded by two young locals with the aim of creating a cultural and educational center. It currently hosts workshops for children and various cultural activities. You can also enjoy a delicious meal and a refreshing drink with a magnificent view of the lush green surroundings.
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São Tomé South: rich in nature and history
The South of São Tomé is rich in landscapes, beaches, waterfalls as well as farmsteads (called ‘roças’), which are essential for getting to know more about the history of this country. Roça Água-Izé is one of the most important in the history of São Tomé. Located by the sea and not far from the capital, it covers around 10 hectares. It was here where the first cocoa beans were introduced to the island. In 1855 the cocoa and coffee production started. Today, it houses the local community, which lives essentially from agriculture, fishing, cattle breeding and tourism.
You should not miss visiting Boca do Inferno, the ‘mouth of hell’, a basaltic coastal site on the road south from São Tomé town near Roça Água Izé which is known for its blowholes, geyser-like eruptions of seawater activated by wave action. Be amazed by a phenomenon of erosion created by the sea in rock formations of volcanic origin, giving rise to a small channel. For many - it is and always will be a mythical place, due to the legend that accompanies it.
Another important historic site is Roça de São João dos Angolares; a social project that provides training and work in its kitchen for several local young people. Here you can enjoy stunning views while experiencing a tasting menu based on delicious local ingredients and recipes.
Further south lies the small town of Porto Alegre, a fishing village with friendly locals and a picturesque shoreline. Here you will also find Roça Porto Alegre with its unparalleled colonial architectural appearance. The town of Porto Alegre also serves as a gateway to the Ilheu das Rolas; the small islet which lies on the Equator, off the most southern tip of São Tomé Island. Other than the iconic Equator Landmark monument, you can visit the small resort Pestana Equador or simply enjoy the stunning beaches and nature and get a fresh perspective of the island's coastline.
If you are seeking a beach vacation, you should definitely visit the east coast and the south of STP. We suggest you take a tour of “Beach hopping” with us and enjoy all of the following beaches in a unique and fun way.
‘Praia Sete Ondas’ is a long, shallow beach of grey sand which produces many rows of waves, hence the name “Seven Waves Beach”. It's good for children, beginner surfers and a long walk on the beach.
Micondó Beach is a beautiful, secluded beach characterized by calm, warm waters, and scenic landscapes.
Pesqueira Beach with its waterfall. One of the many waterfalls that the island is proud to display. A relatively low but wide waterfall with plenty of water, which makes the beautiful and powerful sight even more impressive.
Another beautiful spot is Inhame Eco Lodge. Located directly on the long sandy beach ‘Praia Inhame’, which you usually have all to yourself, this lodge offers accommodation in bungalows and excellent food in its own restaurant. All the energy and water required at the lodge is generated by green and renewable energy sources. Surfing, diving, turtle watching (seasonal), fishing, boat tours and much more can be experienced here.
From here you can walk to two more beaches:
Piscina Beach, named after the rock formations, that surround it, forming a natural barrier like a swimming pool, and Jalé Beach. A remote beach with a strong current, where giant sea turtles lay their eggs in the sand every morning between September and April. Although not suitable for swimming, the beach is perfect for a nice walk along the shore. For an authentic experience you can enjoy a local lunch at the rustic Jalé Ecolodge.
For those who want to include unique adventures into their trips, the south of STP has a lot to offer as well. Enjoy water-based activities like diving, snorkelling, and fishing in the pristine waters surrounding the island. Discover vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life or try your hand at deep-sea fishing for a memorable experience. Take boat tours to explore the smaller islands and islets around STP. Discover hidden coves, secluded beaches, and observe diverse bird species nesting in the area.
Leaving the sea behind you for a bit you can embark on hiking adventures through the lush rainforests and mountains. Explore trails such as the Pico Cão Grande trail for breathtaking views and encounters with diverse flora and fauna. Pico Cão Grande is a distinctive needle-shaped volcanic peak, with a summit of 663 meters, in the Obô Natural Park of São Tomé.
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