Inspiration Itinerary

Barefoot Beaches

São Tomé & Príncipe, West Africa

Galapagos of Africa

Cast adrift 140 miles off the coast of Gabon, São Tomé and Príncipe is one nation consisting of two remote volcanic islands, often dubbed the ‘African Galapagos’. Here you will discover a place that time forgot, where a unique collection of wildlife can be found and marine life thrives. It feels as though you have stepped off the edge of the world!

This itinerary takes in both Islands – first São Tomé which is home to around 7000 people and provides the necessary infrastructure for travel, and then Príncipe, a tiny island topped by a canopy of green broken by spires of primordial rock. Largely undiscovered, it is a magnificent lost world, offering fantastic beaches, jungle exploration, snorkelling, fishing and birdwatching.

São Tomé and Príncipe was uninhabited by humans until the fifteenth century when the Portuguese arrived and established vast plantations making the nation the largest producer of cacao in the world. The legacy is a handful of beautiful plantation houses, now exclusive boutique hotels for you to enjoy during this itinerary.

Whilst remaining a natural paradise, São Tomé and Príncipe is distinctively West African with a very strong Portuguese influence. It has a rhythm of its own which sets it apart from any experiences in East and Southern Africa.

13 UNFORGETTABLE DAYS

PLEASE NOTE

This itinerary provides the perfect framework for a spectacular journey but it is an example only. All journeys will be individually designed and quoted on a case by case basis.

DAYS 1 & 2 | São Tomé

Arrive in São Tomé where you will be met at the airport and transferred to your lodge. Take in the reality of being in this remote paradise as you spend a day at leisure and explore the local area. Please ask us for touring options! Overnight: Omali Lodge

DAYS 3-9 | Príncipe Island, Praia Sundy

Transfer from Omali Lodge to São Tomé International Airport for a scenic 35-minute flight to Príncipe Island. Discover the old ruins of the area, the historical cacao plantations, the biospheres, and get to know the locals as you explore the forest, sand and sea. Visit the smallest capital in the world, observe the secrets of the organic farming, experience different aromas and tastes and be indulge in traditional local meals.

DAYS 3-9 | Continued

Spot whales and dolphins off the northeast side of the island between August and September. The use of kayaks, snorkelling equipment and SUPs is included.

DAYS 10-12 | Príncipe Island, Roca Sundy

Enjoy the range of activities at Roca Sundy including 4×4 excursions to spot the island’s astonishing wildlife to whale watching, diving, plantation tours and jungle hikes. Between September and April you can observe turtles spawning and hatching, assisting with conservation projects if you wish. One of the most relaxed and rewarding activities is a simple stroll through the island’s village communities, where the locals will greet you like old friends.

DAY 13 | END OF SAFARI

You will be privately transferred to the airport to begin yoru journey home.

ACCOMMODATION

Elegant and unique

Roça Sundy – Príncipe Island, São Tomé & Príncipe

This grand colonial house is a legacy from the time that São Tomé and Príncipe was the biggest cacao producer in the world. Now a stylish boutique hotel, great care has been taken to preserve its original grandeur. This hotel is a surprising touch of sophistication in this forgotten pocket of Africa. Read More

Sundy Praia – Príncipe Island, São Tomé & Príncipe

Merging seamlessly with their forest surrounds, the 15 tented villas of this luxurious tropical hideaway lie hidden among a scattering of almond and banana trees. Explore deserted coves, forests and mountain peaks, watch turtles hatch or whales breach, then return home to dine on the produce of the island’s incredible natural larder. Read More

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Milford family

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The trip exceeded my expectations and was the best family holiday I have ever had. Our children simply loved it and now I know more about African wildlife than they do about our own farm animals.

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The McGowan Tribe

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