Things to do in Sao Tome and Principe

25 things to do in Sao Tome and Principe

Listed in full below. The running order is set by votes and loads with the page.

• Hike to Pico de São Tomé

  Conquer the highest peak in Sao Tome at 2,024m, traversing lush rainforests and cloud forests for breathtaking panoramic views of the island.

  São Tomé Island

• Explore Obo National Park

  Discover this biodiversity hotspot with trails through primary forests, past waterfalls like Cascata São Nicolau, and spot endemic flora and fauna.

  São Tomé and Príncipe

• Sunbathe on Praia Rei

  Relax on this iconic beach with fine white sand, clear turquoise waters, and a backdrop of swaying coconut palms.

  São Tomé Island

• Savor Calulu in São Tomé

  Indulge in the national dish, a flavorful stew made with fish, okra, and local spices, often served with fried breadfruit.

  São Tomé city

• Attend a Tchiloli Performance

  Witness this traditional theatrical performance combining music, dance, and drama, depicting European plays with a unique local twist.

  Trindade

• Visit Fort São Sebastião

  Explore this 16th-century Portuguese fort that now houses the National Museum, with exhibits on the island's history and culture.

  São Tomé city

• Stroll through São Tomé City Center

  Wander the colonial streets lined with pastel-colored buildings, visit the central market, and soak in the vibrant local atmosphere.

  São Tomé city

• Scuba Dive at Ilhéu das Cabras

  Dive into the clear waters around this small island to see coral reefs, tropical fish, and possibly sea turtles.

  Near São Tomé Island

• Experience Nightlife at Bar de Praia

  Enjoy a relaxed evening at this beachfront bar with live music, local drinks like palm wine, and a friendly atmosphere.

  São Tomé city

• See the Equator Monument on Ilhéu das Rolas

  Visit this tiny island where the equator line passes, marked by a monument, and enjoy pristine beaches and snorkeling spots.

  Ilhéu das Rolas

• Tour a Cocoa Plantation

  Learn about the history and process of cocoa production on a working plantation, and sample rich, dark chocolate made from local beans.

  Roça Agostinho Neto

• Swim at Banana Beach

  Enjoy the curved shoreline of this beach named for its shape, with calm waters ideal for swimming and sunbathing.

  Príncipe Island

• Hike to Cascata São Nicolau

  Trek through the jungle to reach this stunning waterfall, where water cascades into a natural pool surrounded by lush vegetation.

  São Tomé Island

• Learn History at Roça Agostinho Neto

  Visit this former plantation turned museum to understand the colonial history and see preserved buildings and artifacts.

  São Tomé Island

• Explore Santo Amaro Town

  Discover this small town with its own character, local markets, and proximity to natural attractions like waterfalls.

  São Tomé Island

• Kayak in Mangrove Forests

  Paddle through the tranquil mangrove ecosystems, observing birds and the unique root structures along the coast.

  Near São Tomé city

• Listen to Live Music at a Festival

  Experience the rhythms of local music like Ússua and socope during cultural festivals, often with dancing and celebrations.

  São Tomé city

• Visit Boca do Inferno Blowhole

  Watch as ocean waves crash through a natural rock formation, sending spray high into the air at this dramatic coastal site.

  São Tomé Island

• Sample Local Chocolate

  Taste the rich, dark chocolate made from Sao Tome's fine cocoa beans, available at local shops and plantations.

  São Tomé city

• Discover Príncipe Island Biosphere Reserve

  Explore this UNESCO-designated area with incredible biodiversity, from dense forests to pristine marine environments.

  Príncipe Island

• Relax on Praia Macaco

  Visit this secluded beach with golden sands and clear waters, perfect for a quiet escape and snorkeling.

  Príncipe Island

• Tour Roça Sundy

  See the historical plantation where a solar eclipse confirmed Einstein's theory, now a cultural site with stunning views and cocoa history.

  Príncipe Island

• Walk around Santo António, Príncipe

  Explore the capital of Príncipe with its colonial architecture, small museums, and friendly local vibe.

  Santo António, Príncipe

• Night Dive Experience

  Dive after dark to see nocturnal marine life, such as octopuses and bioluminescent creatures, in the warm waters around the islands.

  Various dive sites

• Visit Tinhosa Grande Island

  This remote island is a haven for seabirds and offers untouched natural beauty, accessible by boat for birdwatching.

  Near São Tomé Island