Sao Tome & Principe Explored

Floating in the Gulf of Guinea, Africa's second-smallest nation, blends natural wonders with a gripping history. Once a vast network of plantations and a centre of global cocoa production, São Tomé and Príncipe gained independence from Portugal in 1975 and remains a hidden gem unchanged by global advances and modernisation. In the countryside, local farmers and families still inhabit the former great mansions; in the capital, historic colonial buildings line the quaint streets. The country is incredibly safe and welcoming to visitors for whom the advancing jungle is a delight. ‘Africa’s Galapagos’ as the islands are commonly referred to, are rich in flora and fauna, especially Principe Island; a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Connect with nature at its most raw here and enjoy special moments like observing turtle hatch-lings fleeing towards the ocean. São Tomé and Príncipe’s address at 1°N, 7°E places this archipelago as close to the centre of the world as it gets.

Introducing LiNGER

We are an independent travel company, specialising in tailor-made sabbatical travel and extended holidays throughout the world. Whether you are a solo traveller on holiday, a family with children on sabbatical, friends seeking an epic break or a couple celebrating a milestone, we would be thrilled to plan your trip. LiNGER was born out of a passion for travel and a desire to do a little more to help protect our planet. Our philosophy is to engage you in a richly authentic and contrasting travel experience which balances meaningful, active and altruistic experiences. Our travellers LiNGER longer, travel responsibly, immerse themselves in the culture, absorb, engage and explore. We love to talk about travel and inspire you with our knowledge.

In A Nutshell

Day	Description	Accommodation
Day 1	Fly to Accra, Ghana	Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City
Day 2	Fly to Sao Tome	Omali Hotel
Day 3	Exploring Sao Tome Island	Omali Hotel
Day 4	Exploring Sao Tome & fly to Principe	Sundy Praia
Days 5 - 10	Exploring Principe	Sundy Praia
Day 11	Fly to Sao Tome & Connecting flight to Accra	Omali Hotel , Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City
Day 12	Departure flight home

Itinerary Detail

Day 1: Fly to Accra, Ghana

Daily Summary

Transfer: Transfer from Kotoka Airport to Downtown Hotel
Accommodation: Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City

On arrival into Accra, walk across the tarmac to the arrivals building where you will pass through immigration control where your visas will be processed, and onwards to the baggage reclaim area. Once you have collected your luggage, you will need to pass through customs. Be ready to have your bags opened by security staff as this is done routinely even when you go through the "nothing to declare" channel.

Once through, look out for a LiNGER Representative who will be holding a sign up with your name on. A private transfer is included to your downtown hotel, a drive of approx. 20 minutes. (This service is on a private basis.)

Introducing Accra

Accra was founded in the 17th Century, and due to its accessible location right on the Atlantic Ocean, the city became a significant Dutch port and the administrative capital for the British Gold Coast. Its colourful history has made the city home to many cultural and historic sites, such as Independent Square, Osu Castle, the National Museum, and the Artists Alliance Gallery. Accra may be the smallest region in Ghana, but it’s by far the most densely populated; a growing metropolis brimming with shopping malls, trendy restaurants, museums, and galleries. In addition, Accra is blessed with beautiful beaches; the most popular being Labadi Beach, which offers great swimming and sunbathing; local entrepreneurs provide everything here from food to pony rides.

Jamestown is the oldest part of Accra, a buzzing harbour, particularly in the mornings, when you can watch the small fishing boats bring in the day’s catch. Head on to explore some of the city’s old buildings, such as the lighthouse, customs house and the old colonial fort. If time allows, indulge yourself in a little retail therapy at one of the old traditional markets.

Accra has a great dining scene; Osa, one of the city’s suburbs, is a popular restaurant and nightlife hub, offering a wide variety of restaurants and bars around Oxford Street. If you have some energy left, dust off those dancing shoes, as Accra is known for its vibrant nightlife.

Day 2: Fly to Sao Tome

Daily Summary

Transfer: Airport Transfer
Excursion: Suggestions in Accra
Accommodation: Omali Hotel
Meals: B

This morning is at your leisure to either relax at the hotel or head out and explore a little. Later today, you will be picked up at your hotel and transferred to the airport in time for your flight to Sao Tome. (This service is on a private basis.)

Suggestions in Accra

There is plenty to keep you entertained in this vibrant city. Below we have outlined some of our top suggestions:

- Wake early and head to Jamestown to watch the local fishermen pull in their catch of the day.
- Check out the beautiful Aburi Botanical Gardens or take a tour of the private gardens in town.
- Head to Labadi Beach for some chill time, or even a spot of reggae if you're lucky; there are occasional live bands and reggae groups here that come from Accra and neighbouring countries.
- Get those taste buds tingling at Santoku; reputed to be Ghana's best restaurant, serving up inventive Japanese dishes by expertly trained staff. They also have a gorgeous terrace where you can enjoy a 'saketini' cocktail.
- Art lovers must visit the Artists Alliance Gallery where you can browse three expansive floors of art displayed in cool marble galleries.
- Take a trip to Elmina Castle, a World Heritage Site which has strong links with the slave years.
- Head to Makola Market (open daily from 6am-8pm), for an insight into the real rawness of Accra - you will find it all here from kitchenware to paintings. You will also be able to observe the Kayayo girls balancing their produce on their heads.

Transfer to Hotel

Welcome to Sao Tome, the tiny capital city of Sao Tome & Principe.

Proceed through customs and immigration formalities at the small international airport. A 20 Euro per person entry permit is charged on arrival - a visa in advance is not required.

You’ll be greeted on arrival outside the small terminal building and driven a mile along the coast road to Omali Hotel for a 2 night stay. Note this transfer is on a small group basis with other hotel guests.

Spend today settling in, enjoying a little pool time and perhaps stretch your legs with a short walk along the ocean promenade in front of the hotel.

Dinner tonight is recommended at the hotel. Seafood is a highlight and the head chef can work wonders with grilled octopus followed by an indulgent Diogovaz Chocolate mousse using cacao from the local plantations.

Introducing Sao Tome

Sao Tome is the livelier Island out of the two, and the capital city of the same name offers a picturesque, charming place to explore, brimming with Portuguese colonial buildings and impeccably maintained parks and gardens. Some of the highlights include the city’s XVI century Cathedral, the Presidential Palace and the National Museum which can be found in the 400-year old Fort of San Sebastian. The northern part of the Island is dotted with a large number of extinct volcanoes, several of which are higher than 600 metres; and this makes it popular with mountaineers. Surfers are also drawn to the eastern part of the Island for its uncrowded, decent surf spots, where the waves are perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers.

Some of the island's highlights include:

- the Fortress of Saint Sebastian (now a small, informative museum) for an introduction to the colonial history of Sao Tomé and Principe.
- A walk through Independence Square where independence was celebrated in 1975; the Municipal Market; the most important commercial houses and buildings in the city centre which date back to the colonial time.
- Walk and chocolate tasting at the cacao plantation of Diogo Vaz – one of the most highly regarded chocolate producers on the island.
- Santomean lunch overlooking the ocean at Restaurant Mucumbli on local dishes with Italian influences.
- Head 800m up into the scenic hills and cooler climes to tour the Montecafe Coffee plantation with an optional walk to the waterfall of Sao Nicholau.

Day 3: Exploring Sao Tome Island

Daily Summary

Excursion: Exploring Sao Tome
Accommodation: Omali Hotel
Meals: B, L

Exploring Sao Tome

Pickup this morning from your hotel lobby by your guide who will be with you today and tomorrow until your flight to Principe. Transfer to the local dive center for a morning dive (optional) - to be paid directly.

Spend the rest of the day with your private guide on an exploration of the Centre of Sao Tome Island. We’ll tailor sightseeing around any interests you may have and recommend the following highlights:

Coffee and Cacau Route (Centre): Tour in a comfortable vehicle and discover countless endemic bird species and plants – many of which are used in traditional medicine, and some history of Sao Tome and Principe. The Coffee Route includes visits to various places such as: the historic city of São Tomé, Roca Monte Cafe and the Coffee Museum where you can try both Arabic and Robusta coffee and get to learn about the transformation and production of coffee beans. The trip follows on to the famous Roca Saudade where Almada Negreiros was born with a pit stop at the amazing Sao Nicolau Waterfall. Suggested lunch at Restaurante Almada Negreiros.

Day 4: Exploring Sao Tome & fly to Principe

Daily Summary

Excursion: Exploring the North of Sao Tome
Accommodation: Sundy Praia
Meals: B, L, D

Exploring the North of Sao Tome

Pickup from your hotel by your guide this morning, and head out for further exploring of Sao Tome, focusing on the north of the island.

Route (North): This route has a distinct landscape when compared to the rest of the island as the Northern part is made up of dryer vegetation. Discover the landscape including some of the biggest Rocas (farms) with particular emphasis on Roca Agostinho Neto and Roca Bela Vista; here you can taste the cocoa fruit and learn about the transformation of cocoa into what we know as chocolate. The trip also includes visits to the beaches of Lagoa Azul, Tamarindo and Governador and follows on to Neves, which is the biggest fishing village of the country and also the Monument of Anambom, where the first Portuguese explorers João de Santarém and Pêro Escobar landed in 1470. (This service is on a private basis.)

Transfer to the airport

Your guide will suggest somewhere for lunch and you’ll then collect your luggage and transfer to the airport in Sao Tome in time for your flight northeast to miniscule Principe Island; your home for the next 7 nights.

On arrival, look out for a hotel representative holding a signboard with your name and you will be driven to Sundy Praia. This tropical paradise offers luxury tented accommodation facing one of the island’s most pristine, untouched beaches.

The rest of the day is at leisure to explore and enjoy your new surroundings.

Included daily during your stay - breakfast, dinner, house drinks, teas, coffee, one half-day activity/excursion (see below).

A 30-minute welcome massage, airport transfers and WiFi are also included during your stay.

Introducing Principe

Principe is an island of just 7,000 people and remains unspoiled and untouched. A canopy of green forest broken by spires of primordial rock; Príncipe is a magnificent lost world that time forgot, offering fantastic beaches, jungle exploration, snorkelling, walking and bird-watching. Explore its forests and coasts, its beaches and bays, and let the warmth of its people renew you.

Days 5 - 10: Exploring Principe

Daily Summary

Excursion: Excursions at Sundy Praia
Accommodation: Sundy Praia
Meals: B, D

Excursions at Sundy Praia

Excursions are included during your stay, and you can choose from one guided excursion each day (these are shared with other hotel guests on a small group basis – but sometimes also private). It's recommended that these are enjoyed in the mornings and are weather dependent. In case of adverse weather conditions, some excursions may be scheduled in the afternoon. The following are included during your stay:

Cacao Route
Experience the cacao journey from ‘tree to table.’ Visit a cacao plantation and learn how the Cacaueiro tree is planted, cultivated and grown. Visit the old dryers to learn about the transformation process, and then end the tour with a tasting of several cacao-based treats.
Includes: Cacao plantation tour; chocolate factory presentation and tasting.

Oquê Pipi Waterfall Trail
Walk through the lush, tropical forests of the Parque Natural do Príncipe, to the Oquê Pipi Waterfall, the largest waterfall on the island. Swim in the natural, crystal-clear ‘pool’ and observe some of the most popular animal and plant species on Príncipe.
Includes: Transfer to and from the trail; informative walk; swimming.

Ribeira Izé Lost City Trail
Walk from Sundy Praia and through the tropical forest to Ribeira Izé and the ruins of a Catholic church. On the way back, stroll along the beach and take a dip in the ocean.
Includes: Informative walk; swimming

Rainforest to Beach
Beginning at Roça Sundy, hike downhill through the vibrant forest to a secluded beach. Once there, enjoy a light lunch and an ocean
dip before ending at Sundy Praia.
Includes: Transport to and from trail; informative walk; swimming; lunch.

Discover Príncipe
Drive through some of the island's old roças and some of the most impressive viewpoints. Along the way, we will have the
opportunity to see the work of local artisans. We will conclude the tour in the town of Santo António, where we can stay for lunch.
(Cost of lunch not included.)
Includes: Transportation; short informative walks; visit to local artisans

Bay of Needles
Located on the edge of the Parque Natural do Príncipe and within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Bay of Needles is a place like no
other. Enjoy spectacular views of the western side of the reserve, with its several beaches surrounded by volcanic plugs. We will
stop for a swim in this enchanting bay.
Includes: Boat trip to Baía das Agulhas; swimming and snorkelling.

Northeast Beaches
Enjoy a boat trip along the secluded beaches of the northeast side of the island and discover the natural beauty of Príncipe from a
different perspective out at sea. Stop at a small fishing village and learn about the traditional way of life on Príncipe island. Part of
this experience’s proceeds is contributed directly to the local fishing community.
Includes: Boat trip; fishing village visit; Praia Boi; swimming and lunch .

For independent explorations, there are also a number of exciting experiences which can be enjoyed. These range from rainforest hikes to wild, pristine beaches, from picturesque streets to timeless fishing villages. Snorkelling and stand-up paddle boarding are fantastic options for enjoying the freedom and beauties of the underwater world.

Additional excursions (on request, at an additional supplement):

- Roça Infante Trail | Hiking | Full Day (6 hours)
- Parrot Peak Trail | Hiking | Full Day (6 Hours)
- Maria Correia Waterfall Trail | Hiking | Full Day (6 Hours)
- Turtle Watching | Light Walking | Evening Experience
- Scuba Diving

Day 11: Fly to Sao Tome & Connecting flight to Accra

Daily Summary

Accommodation: Omali Hotel, Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City
Meals: B

Transfer to the airport

Transfer this morning to the airport for the 40-minute flight to Sao Tome.

You will be welcomed on arrival in Sao Tome, and taken to the Omali Hotel, where we have booked you a day room. Relax and enjoy some pool time.

Later on, you'll be transferred back to Sao Tome airport for an onward flight to Accra for an overnight stay.

Transfer from airport to hotel

On arrival into Accra, you will be greeted by a LiNGER Representative and privately transferred to your hotel.

Day 12: Departure flight home

Daily Summary

Meals: B

Enjoy a day at leisure to explore on your own.

Why not wake early and head out to soak up the atmosphere of West Africa with either a trip to a local market or a trip to the beach. If you'd like to explore slightly further afield, we recommend booking a guided tour to Aburi Gardens and Tetteh Quarshie Cocoa Farms, where you can learn about the origins of Cocoa and enjoy spectacular scenic views of Accra from the mountain top.

We can recommend Buka for your lunchtime food fix; one of the best lunch spots in Accra close to the centre of Osa, located on an upper terrace with lively music and wraparound wooden trellises which add to its charm. The menu will allow you to try some traditional Ghanaian and Nigerian specialties such as okra stew and eba (a dough ball eaten with stew).

Transfer to the airport

Early this evening, you will be privately transferred to Kotoka International Airport for your overnight flight home.

Accommodation

Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City

Website: Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City

This downtown property offers guests a convenient location with the National Theatre close by, and the Accra Art Centre, which hosts Ghana’s largest art market. The hotel is known for having the most spacious rooms in the city, with interiors designed to reflect the warmth of the Ghanaian people. Enjoy a dreamy soak at the Resense Spa, which stretches over three floors, and includes an authentic hammam experience for that pre-holiday body buff. Guests can indulge in authentic Levantine flavours or Arabian street food at the property’s Cedar Garden restaurant. There is also a Mediterranean buffet restaurant, and a bar serving up the best of European mixology. Should you prefer to dine in a more casual setting, the Pool Bar serves a wide variety of food from fresh salads to grilled lobster. Enjoy being pampered by the infinity pool, with lollipops and refreshing sugar cane delivered to your lounger, accompanied by the calming sounds of the waterfall.

Omali Hotel

Website: Omali Hotel

Located close to the airport and directly opposite Lagarto Beach, this stylish property offers a convenient base for exploring the sights and sounds of Sao Tome, with the National Museum, Sao Tome's southern beaches and community-run cacao and coffee farms all within easy reach. The property offers a calm oasis for guests to relax, surrounded by tropical gardens, a palm-fringed swimming pool with poolside bar and a restaurant serving fresh creative seafood feasts. Two-storey pastel blue cottages provide first and ground floor room options, with each room enjoying views to the al-fresco pool or garden; the interiors tastefully designed with trendy soft furnishings and oodles of texture from the rattan lampshades to the exposed brick walls. Other facilities here include a small gym, tennis court, and a cocktail bar.

Sundy Praia

Website: Sundy Praia

Sundy Praia is a chic tented eco-resort, designed to exist in harmony with the forest. A tranquil setting on Principe’s wild northwest coast, where one can relax and surround themselves by nature’s rhythms, from the chattering of the parrots to the gentle roll of the ocean waves. The spacious eco-villas have been tastefully decorated with an earthy-colour palette, and feature sustainable hardwood floors, sumptuous four poster beds and granite bathtubs, each boasting sweeping views of the sparkling sea. This eco-chic vibe is continued throughout the hotel with characterful African fabrics and locally crafted artwork hugging the walls. Cuisine is a forest-to-fork affair in the property’s stunning restaurant with local delights such as sea snails, fungi-malagueta (hot pepper and chicken stew), and other Principean classics. During the day, guests can relax on one of the four-poster canopy daybeds by the pool, or fully unwind with a massage at the spa, which uses locally sourced organic products.

Standard Pricing

Trip Cost: from £7495.00 per person

*All pricing is in GBP and based on two people travelling together.

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We take our responsibilities to the environment, local communities, customers, suppliers, partners and employees very seriously and our intention is to constantly review our policies and strive to make improvements where we can.

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