May 30, 2025 – May 30, 2025
Off the beaten path, São Tomé and Principe is a tropical paradise that offers lush rainforests, birdwatching, secluded waterfalls and pristine, isolated beaches. Enjoy spectacular views on a hike to the peak of Pico de São Tomé, go in search of the 109 species of orchid that decorate the landscape, or marvel at the impressive Boca do Inferno blowhole.
Glory in the culture and history of São Tomé and view its marquee attractions, including the National Museum, Presidential Palace and lively city market. Drive through charming São Tomé, a capital city founded in 1485 by the Portuguese and noted for its colonial architecture and brightly colored buildings. You’ll uncover the island’s rich past at the National Museum, which houses myriad artifacts, many religious in nature, in a 16th-century Portuguese-built fortress that overlooks the Atlantic Ocean. Visit the nearby Pantufo fishing village, where you’ll revel in a traditional folkloric performance that lends even greater insight into the island’s culture. Returning to the city center, find the Presidential Palace, which features a rose-pink façade with neoclassical elements, and make your way through many popular squares to the bustling city market for a rewarding dive into local life.
We crossed the equator May 30, 2025
