Often ranked amongst the world’s least-visited destinations, the twin islands of São Tomé and Principe are a largely undiscovered paradise. You can enjoy world-class beaches with very few visitors, and wonderful walks through the dense tropical forests. Visit cacao plantations, old colonial buildings, and see turtles come to the shore to nest. And there are some fantastic places to stay across both of the islands.
The island of Principe has the most luxurious resorts, with incredible private beaches set amongst a vast backdrop of dense tropical forest. Sao Tome offers more of a mixture, from boutique hotels to restored plantation houses, tented lodges to beach resorts, and simple beach huts. All offer a range of excursions and activities to enjoy during your stay, exploring different parts of the island. Tourism is in its infancy here, so excursions run on island-time and activities are more of an authentic adventure than a polished commercial enterprise.
Whichever style of stay you prefer, we can advise you on the options that best suit your preferences.
- Bom Bom Eco Lodge
- Sundy Praia
- Club Santana
- Praia Inhame
- Mucumbli
Bom Bom Eco Lodge, on the island of Principe
Bom Bom Eco Lodge is one of the best places to stay on Principe. 25 comfortably furnished bungalows are nestled next to the private beach, up in the trees, and dotted around the pool area. The sounds of bird song fill the air and you have exclusive access to two private beaches and a private islet, accessed via a wooden walkway. The shallow waters around the islet are impossibly clear and perfect for snorkelling. Bom Bom guests can enjoy a good range of exclusive excursions, such as guided walks and snorkelling tours. And there are snorkels, kayaks, and paddle boards that you can use at your leisure.
Sundy Praia, a luxury tented villa on the island of Principe
Alongside Bom Bom, Sundy Praia is one of the top places to stay if you’re visiting the island of Principe. This small, luxury tented villa truly immerses you within your environment. There is a gorgeous infinity pool that overlooks the ocean, with loungers and outdoor beds for those moments when you want to truly relax. You can enjoy a cocktail by the pool whilst listening to the birds calling in the trees above you. A range of excursions are available to guests, so you can explore the islands delights as well as relaxing at the villa.
Club Santana, a beach resort on the island of Sao Tome
Unlike the more secluded luxury resorts on Principe, Club Santana is a bustling hub of activity. Its a great places to stay if you want to head out diving, as it has its own scuba diving centre on site, offering everything from beginner dives to advanced PADI courses. There is a spacious pool area with an infinity pool that overlooks an idyllic private sandy beach. The water surrounding this beach is shallow and rocky. It’s perfect for swimming and guests have free access to snorkelling equipment, kayaks, and paddle boards. You can also enjoy a 10 minute boat excursion to Santana Islet for some deep-sea snorkelling.
Praia Inhame Eco Lodge, simple beach chalets on Sao Tome
Praia Inhame Eco Lodge is a lovely little place. There are fourteen wooden chalets in a peaceful woodland setting, right next to a lovely beach with golden sands and tropical waters. This is the perfect example simple, laid-back Sao Tomean hospitality. A place to slow down and enjoy your surroundings. There is a restaurant on site that serves a fresh produce that is grown on site, and buffet breakfasts. If you’re here between November and March, you can ask to be woken when the turtles come to shore to nest. Its a key nesting site for leatherback turtles, the largest of all the turtle species. You might also spot green and hawkesbill turtles.
Mucumbli Lodge, cliff-top chalets overlooking a pebbled beach on Sao Tome
Mucumbli Lodge has a homely feel and is run by a lovely Italian couple who have lived on the island for many years. The wooden chalets are simple but really charming and all have verandas overlooking the ocean. It’s immersed in the rainforest and is part of a community project that encompasses eco-friendly living, sustainable agriculture, and job sustainability for the local population. Meals are a fusion of Sao Tomean and Italian food, often using fresh fish caught that day. And there’s lots to do here, from cycling to guided walks, whale watching trips, turtle watching, and plantation tours. Its a really great way to explore the north eastern part of Sao Tome and get a feel for island life.
Where to stay on Sao Tome and Principe; personalised recommendations
If you’re considering a visit to Sao Tome and Principe, do give us a call. We can chat to you about the different parts of each island, and the best excursions and activities for you to enjoy. Once we’ve established what kind of adventure you’re looking for, we can send you some recommended places to stay based on your preferences. So do get in touch if you’re looking for inspiration.
