Sao Tome and Principe Travel Guide

Remote, unspoilt and amazingly safe, the island nation of Sao Tome and Príncipe is a land of emerald-green rainforests and golden-sand beaches. Ecotourists in particular will enjoy the breath-taking volcanic peaks and underwater caves that make this the perfect destination for a tropical holiday.

The country's two archipelagos form Africa's second-smallest country and were both uninhabited before the Portuguese arrived in the 15th century. Today, their cultural history is partly preserved through the distinctive architecture of the colonial capital, Sao Tome, and the fortress museum at Sao Sebastiao, which has some lovely colonial art and religious artefacts. The Portuguese-Creole culture is worth savouring, too, as is the delicious seafood, fresh fruit, and world-class coffee. It's also worth spending time at the colourful Sao Tome market, or one of the many old plantations.

Visitors can trek through well-preserved rainforests and explore waterfalls, lap up the sun on a glorious coastline, or dive and snorkel in turquoise waters. They can also appreciate the islands' natural biodiversity by doing some bird-watching, or by visiting the turtle-nesting grounds at Obo National Park and the Boca do Inferno Blowhole.