Things to do in Sao Tome and Principe

What to see and do in Sao Tome and Principe: a shorter list of 25 experiences, not yet checked against sources.

25 things to do in Sao Tome and Principe

Adventure

Hike to Pico de São Tomé

São Tomé Island

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

Nature

Explore Obo National Park

São Tomé and Príncipe

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

Nature

Sunbathe on Praia Rei

São Tomé Island

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

Food

Savor Calulu in São Tomé

São Tomé city

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

Culture

Attend a Tchiloli Performance

Trindade

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

History

Visit Fort São Sebastião

São Tomé city

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

City

Stroll through São Tomé City Center

São Tomé city

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

Adventure

Scuba Dive at Ilhéu das Cabras

Near São Tomé Island

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

Nightlife

Experience Nightlife at Bar de Praia

São Tomé city

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

Hidden gem

See the Equator Monument on Ilhéu das Rolas

Ilhéu das Rolas

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

Culture

Tour a Cocoa Plantation

Roça Agostinho Neto

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

Nature

Swim at Banana Beach

Príncipe Island

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

Adventure

Hike to Cascata São Nicolau

São Tomé Island

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

History

Learn History at Roça Agostinho Neto

São Tomé Island

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

City

Explore Santo Amaro Town

São Tomé Island

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

Adventure

Kayak in Mangrove Forests

Near São Tomé city

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

Culture

Listen to Live Music at a Festival

São Tomé city

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

Nature

Visit Boca do Inferno Blowhole

São Tomé Island

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

Food

Sample Local Chocolate

São Tomé city

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

Nature

Discover Príncipe Island Biosphere Reserve

Príncipe Island

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

Nature

Relax on Praia Macaco

Príncipe Island

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

History

Tour Roça Sundy

Príncipe Island

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

City

Walk around Santo António, Príncipe

Santo António, Príncipe

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

Adventure

Night Dive Experience

Various dive sites

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

Hidden gem

Visit Tinhosa Grande Island

Near São Tomé Island

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

Nearby destinations

All destinations