Sao Tome and Principe Travel Guide

Praia de Santo António © Joao Maximo

Forget the Caribbean, Mauritius, or Seychelles, the remote island nation of São Tomé and Príncipe in the Gulf of Guinea is a land far from mass tourism, brimming with natural resources and breathtaking scenery, and is the perfect destination for an exotic holiday in paradise.

Trek to unspoilt forests and explore their cascading waterfalls and biodiversity, laze on sun-drenched beaches while palm fronds rustle overhead, dive or snorkel in uncharted turquoise waters, or experience the tropical Portuguese-Creole flavour for yourself by feasting on delicious seafood delights, followed by gourmet chocolates, fresh fruit and some of the world's finest coffee.

Head to the colonial town of São Tomé and admire the distinctive architecture, explore an old cocoa plantation, or visit the fortress museum at Sao Sabastiao where colonial art and religious artefacts can be viewed. São Tomé also has natural attractions in turtle-nesting grounds at Obo National Park and the Boca do Inferno Blowhole.

With an average of only 20 tourists per week, you can be sure you'll be enjoying your very own slice of heaven well off the beaten track. So however you decide to pass the time in São Tomé, make sure you do it slowly.