Sao Tome & Principe Beaches
Sao Tome and Principe are two of our favourites as it is completely off the beaten track and quite tricky to get to, but once you are there, it is worth it. The 2 islands sit near the equator in the Atlantic Ocean off the west coast of Africa. Dominated by towering volcanoes and forested hills that topple down to the golden sandy beaches and turquoise waters. Once a Portuguese colony, the island has influences of West Africa and Europe but seems to beat to its own drum.
Who should come to Sao Tome and Principe? Basically, anyone looking to get away from the crowds and try something different. It is a little tricky to get to, but once you are here you will be one of few tourists that make the effort to get here.
What is there to do in Sao Tome and Principe? There is so much to do on the island of Principe above and below the water. On-land activities include plantation visits, volcano treks, visits to the communities, bird watching, and jungle walks including visits to waterfalls or simply relaxing on the many beaches. Below or on the water guests can enjoy whale watching, scuba diving, snorkeling, turtle watching, boat trips, and dolphin watching.
How do I get to Sao Tome and Principe? With restricted flight access, it is tricky to get to, but Principe combines with Namibia on TAAG via Luanda from Windhoek, departing on Wednesdays.
TAAG also flies from Cape Town and Johannesburg, so can be combined with a safari in Botswana, Zimbabwe and South Africa. It is possible to connect from Brazzaville, via West Africa on certain days of the week.
Where to stay on Principe? Sundy Praia is the best accommodation on the island of Principe and consists of 15 tented villas scattered through the plantations of Almond and Banana trees and all with views of the sea. There are 1, 2 or 3 bedroom villas to choose from depending on who you are travelling with. The fine dining restaurant onsite serves up a mix or local and international cuisine with an emphasis on the fresh seafood and vegetables from their gardens.
Why we love Sundy Praia:
Remote
Off the beaten track
Incredible fresh food
Luxury on the beach and jungle
Plenty to do
Privately owned
Stunning beaches
Access to local villages and rich Principe culture
Conservation efforts: Sundy Praia is committed to conserving and growing the local ecosystem both on the land and in the waters around the island. By building a luxury lodge in Principe, they are helping by supporting local guides and tours as well as hiring local staff. They are on a mission to rid Sao Tome and Principe of all plastic and are working with the local communities to achieve this.
