Discover the best activities and attractions to enjoy in St ThomasA tropical island full of surprises and natural beauty. Explore paradisiacal beaches, immerse yourself in the local culture and taste the exotic flavours of this enchanting African island.
Everything you can do in São Tomé:
- Visit paradisiacal beaches such as Praia das Conchas and Praia Jalé
- Explore the rich local culture in traditional markets
- Take part in ecotourism trails in stunning natural parks
- Discover historical attractions such as the colonial farmsteads
- Enjoy exciting water activities such as diving and snorkelling
- Try the unique cuisine of St Thomas in local restaurants
Take advantage of all tropical adventures that St Thomas has to offer and create unforgettable memories in this tropical paradise...
São Tomé's paradisiacal beaches
São Tomé is known for its stunning, unspoilt beaches. Discover the best beaches on the island, such as Praia das Conchas, Praia Piscina Natural and Praia Jalé. Relax on the white sands, dive into the crystal-clear waters and enjoy a perfect day in the sun. Appreciate the natural beauty and tranquillity of the São Tomé's beachesideal for escaping the stress of everyday life and reconnecting with nature.
The archipelago of São Tomé and Príncipe is a true tropical treasure in the Atlantic Ocean. Its beaches offer a paradisiacal setting, with clear waters and white sands, perfect for moments of relaxation and fun with family or couples.
The São Tomé's beaches are an irresistible invitation to appreciate the exuberant nature and enjoy unforgettable moments of leisure and tranquillity.
One of the best São Tomé's beaches is Praia das Conchas. Located in the south of the island, this beach enchants visitors with its rock formations and calm waters. It's the perfect place for a refreshing dip or to relax in the shade of the trees.
Piscina Natural Beach is another of São Tomé's jewels. Characterised by its crystal clear waters and natural rock formations, it forms a natural pool protected from the open sea. It's perfect for swimming safely and exploring the rich marine life in these waters.
Praia Jalé is one of São Tomé's most isolated and unspoilt beaches. With its transparent waters, coconut palms and golden sand, it is the perfect refuge for those seeking peace and tranquillity away from mass tourism. Here, you can enjoy moments of serenity in a breathtaking setting.
Enjoy beach tourism in São Tomé and discover the island's best beaches. Whether you want to enjoy a sunny day, practise water sports or simply relax, São Tomé's beaches offer a paradisiacal refuge in the midst of exuberant nature.
Top 3 beaches in São Tomé
| Beach | Description |
|---|---|
| Shell Beach | Beach in the south of the island with rock formations and calm waters. |
| Natural Pool Beach | Beach with crystal-clear waters and a natural pool formed by rock formations. |
| Jalé Beach | A secluded and unspoilt beach, perfect for moments of peace and quiet. |
The rich culture of São Tomé
Explore the rich St Thomas culture visit local markets, such as the Mercado Municipal de São Tomé and the Mercado Agostinho Neto. Discover traditional music and typical dances at local festivals, such as the International Portuguese Language Festival. Be sure to try the local cuisine, with traditional dishes such as Muamba de Galinha and Sopa de Peixe.
A St Thomas culture is fascinating and diverse, reflecting the history and traditions of the archipelago. When you visit the island, you'll have the opportunity to dive headfirst into a unique cultural experience.
Local Markets
A visit to the local markets is an incredible way to experience the authenticity of the region. St Thomas culture. The São Tomé Municipal Market is the ideal place to buy fresh produce, from exotic fruits to local spices. The Agostinho Neto Market offers a variety of traditional handicrafts, such as wooden sculptures and colourful fabrics.
Local Festivals
Festivals are a vibrant part of São Tomé's culture. The International Portuguese Language Festival is an unmissable event where local and international artists come together to celebrate the Portuguese language and culture. During the festival, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy traditional music, typical dances and art exhibitions.
Traditional cuisine
Trying the traditional cuisine of São Tomé is a unique experience for food lovers. Dishes such as Muamba de Galinha, a chicken stew with okra, and Sopa de Peixe, a fish broth with vegetables, capture the authentic flavours of this tropical island. Don't miss out on the famous São Toméan sweets, such as Bôbô de Camarão and Cocada.
"São Tomé's local markets are true treasures of the local culture, full of colours, aromas and authentic flavours." - João Silva, traveller with a passion for culture.
Don't miss out on exploring São Tomé's rich culture during your visit to the island. Immersing yourself in the local markets, taking part in traditional festivals and sampling the typical cuisine are enriching experiences that are sure to leave lasting memories.
| Traditional dishes | Description |
|---|---|
| Chicken Muamba | Chicken stew with okra and spices, served with rice and pirão. |
| Fish soup | Fish stock with fresh vegetables, flavoured with aromatic herbs. |
| Shrimp | A dish made with prawns, manioc and coconut milk, served with white rice. |
| Coconut | A sweet made from grated coconut, sugar and coconut water, traditionally served in wooden spoons. |
Don't miss the chance to sample these delicacies and explore São Tomé's rich culture during your visit to the island.
Ecotourism route in São Tomé
São Tomé is a paradise for nature lovers, offering a variety of incredible ecotourism experiences. The island is home to stunning natural parks, lush trails and a unique biodiversity. Get ready to marvel at the breathtaking views and connect with nature at its purest.
Ôbo Nature Park
The Ôbo Natural Park is one of the main attractions for enthusiasts of the ecotourism in São Tomé. Located in the southern part of the island, this park offers an abundance of stunning trails and a rich diversity of flora and fauna. Whether walking through dense tropical forests or observing exotic birds, Ôbo Nature Park promises an unforgettable experience.
Bicha Natural Park
The Bicha Natural Park, located in the north-eastern part of the island, is another unmissable destination for ecotourism lovers. Here you'll find a variety of paths leading to picturesque waterfalls, crystal-clear streams and impressive rock formations. Explore the lush tropical vegetation and let yourself be amazed by the natural beauty of this park.
"Nature is the greatest source of inspiration and peace. In São Tomé, you'll find an unspoilt environment that invites you to explore and experience its essence." - Luísa Silva, Enthusiastic traveller
Both nature parks offer a range of exciting activities, such as guided hikes, birdwatching and outdoor picnics. It's a perfect opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of nature.
| Nature Parks in São Tomé | Main Attractions |
|---|---|
| Ôbo Nature Park | - Stunning trails - Richness of flora and fauna - Birdwatching |
| Bicha Natural Park | - Waterfalls and crystal-clear streams - Impressive rock formations - Lush tropical vegetation |
Get ready to experience memorable adventures amidst the breathtaking nature of São Tomé. From watching tropical birds to exploring lush trails, you'll find a myriad of experiences that will take you on a journey of discovery and connection with the environment.
Historical attractions in São Tomé
For lovers of history and culture, São Tomé offers a wealth of historical attractions to explore. Discover the island's fascinating historical heritage by visiting some of the most famous roças, which played a crucial role in the country's economy during past centuries. Venture into colonial architecture and learn about the history of cocoa and coffee cultivation, which has shaped São Tomé's identity.
The following are some of the must-see historical attractions:
- Agostinho Neto Farm
- Roça de São João dos Angolares
- Fort of St Sebastian
- St Thomas Cathedral
Roça Agostinho Neto is one of the island's best-known plantations and offers visitors the chance to explore preserved cocoa and coffee plantations and learn about the island's colonial past.
Roça de São João dos Angolares is another historic farm worth visiting. Located in a picturesque area, this roça offers a glimpse into São Tomé's rural life in the past, with its well-preserved buildings and charming atmosphere.
The Fort of São Sebastião is an imposing structure that dates back to the 16th century and represents a crucial part of the island's history. With breathtaking views of the ocean, this fort offers a unique experience for lovers of history and architecture.
The Cathedral of São Tomé, with its impressive colonial architecture, is an important landmark in the city and a must-see if you want to discover the island's religious heritage.
Explore São Tomé's historical past
Be sure to include these historical attractions in your São Tomé itinerary. They offer a fascinating insight into the island's historical heritage and allow you to immerse yourself in São Tomé's past traditions and cultures.
Water activities in São Tomé
Make the most of São Tomé's crystal-clear waters with exciting water activities. Do diving in São Tomé and discover colourful coral reefs and abundant marine life. Practise snorkelling in São Tomé and swim alongside sea turtles. Sport fishing enthusiasts can also enjoy this activity in the fish-rich waters.
Colourful coral reefs
Explore the beauty of São Tomé's coral reefs through scuba diving. Discover a vibrant underwater world full of unique colours and shapes. Dive among the colourful corals and observe the diversity of tropical fish that inhabit these crystal-clear waters.
Encounters with sea turtles
Practising snorkelling in São ToméAt the end of the day, you'll have the opportunity to swim alongside sea turtles. These majestic sea creatures are an enchanting sight and swimming with them is an unforgettable experience. Explore the calm waters of the island and immerse yourself in this magical encounter with wildlife.
Sport fishing in São Tomé
Lovers of sport fishing will find a true paradise in the waters of São Tomé. The fish-rich waters offer the chance to catch exotic species such as tuna, swordfish and wahoo. Enjoy the thrill of a good game of deep-sea fishing and take advantage of the breathtaking nature the island has to offer.
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Diving in São Tomé | Explore the coral reefs and the abundant marine life. |
| Snorkelling in São Tomé | Swim alongside sea turtles and explore the crystal-clear waters. |
| Sport fishing in São Tomé | Venture out to sea and fish for exotic species. |
Gastronomy in São Tomé
Savour the unique gastronomy São Tomé, with dishes that combine African, Portuguese and tropical influences. Try the famous grilled fresh fish, accompanied by fried bananas and tropeiro beans. Visit the local restaurants to savour authentic São Toméan cuisine and enjoy a true gastronomic experience.
A São Tomé's gastronomy offers a fusion of flavours and spices that delight the palate. The typical dishes reflect the richness of the fresh ingredients found on the island, providing a unique culinary experience.
"São Toméan cuisine is a fusion of African, Portuguese and tropical flavours, the result of the country's history and cultural influences. It's a real feast for the senses!"
The restaurants in São Tomé are known for their hospitality and cosy atmosphere, ensuring that visitors enjoy a true immersion in the local culture. As well as freshly grilled fish, dishes such as Muamba de Galinha (a chicken stew with okra) and Sopa de Peixe (fish soup made with fresh fish, vegetables and spices) are highlights of the local gastronomy.
Authentic flavours of São Tomé
When you visit São Tomé, don't forget to try some of the most famous delicacies:
- Cachupa - a corn stew with beans, pork, sausages and other vegetables;
- Honey Cake - a traditional cake made with honey and spices;
- Clams Bulhão Pato style - clams cooked with garlic, coriander and olive oil;
- Tropical fruit - take advantage of the variety of fresh fruit available on the island, such as mangoes, pineapples and passion fruit.
A São Tomé's gastronomy is an essential part of the experience of travelling to the island, allowing visitors to explore and appreciate the cultural richness and authentic flavours of this tropical destination.
Conclusion
São Tomé offers a multitude of incredible experiences for visitors. From paradisiacal beaches to a rich culture and tropical adventuresThis enchanting island is the perfect destination for those looking for a fascinating getaway.
Discover São Tomé's hidden treasures and create unforgettable memories in this tropical paradise. Explore the stunning beaches, immerse yourself in the local culture, enjoy the unique gastronomy and venture out on the lush trails.
Don't miss out on the historical attractions and the farmsteads that tell the story of the island. Whether practising thrilling water activities or simply relaxing amidst the natural beauty, São Tomé is sure to delight your senses.
