How to Travel Responsibly in São Tomé, São Tomé and Príncipe

Tucked away in the Gulf of Guinea, just off the coast of Central Africa, lies the often-overlooked island nation of São Tomé and Príncipe. São Tomé, the larger of the two islands, is a lush tropical paradise—home to volcanic peaks, empty beaches, biodiverse rainforests, and some of the most welcoming locals in all of Africa.

As this destination gains attention from intrepid travelers, it becomes even more important to approach São Tomé with a responsible and sustainable mindset. Whether you’re visiting for hiking, birdwatching, cacao plantation tours, or simply to unwind on pristine beaches, this guide will show you how to travel respectfully and leave a positive impact.

Why Travel Responsibly in São Tomé?

- It’s one of the most ecologically rich countries in Africa, with high levels of endemic species
- Infrastructure is limited, and tourism is still developing
- Locals depend heavily on natural resources for livelihood
- The islands are vulnerable to climate change, erosion, and pollution

By making informed choices, you can help protect this incredible place while having an unforgettable journey.

Understanding São Tomé’s Environmental Context

São Tomé is part of the UNESCO-recognized Obo National Park, which spans over 30% of the island. The park harbors cloud forests, waterfalls, orchids, and more than 140 bird species, many of which exist nowhere else on Earth.

However, the island also faces challenges:
- Coastal erosion and rising sea levels
- Overfishing and limited waste management
- Limited access to clean water in rural areas
- Economic dependency on imports and tourism

What You Can Do as a Traveler

1. Support Locally Owned Accommodations
Stay in eco-lodges, family-run guesthouses, or locally managed hotels instead of foreign-owned chains. This ensures that your money stays in the community.

Top picks include:
- Omali Lodge: Eco-conscious and locally staffed, located near the beach in São Tomé city
- Mucumbli Ecolodge: Perched in the northwest, this lodge uses solar power and locally sourced ingredients
- Roça São João: A restored colonial cacao plantation offering cultural experiences and local cuisine

2. Choose Sustainable Tours and Guides
Hire licensed local guides for nature walks, city tours, or plantation visits. They offer insider knowledge while supporting local employment.

Recommended experiences:
- Birdwatching tours in Obo National Park
- Turtle nesting tours with conservation groups (November–March)
- Hikes to Pico Cão Grande and São Nicolau waterfalls

Always ask tour operators:
- Are guides local?
- Are hikes and visits conducted with respect for wildlife?
- Do they follow “leave no trace” principles?

3. Eat Local and Seasonal
São Tomé’s cuisine is delicious, and eating locally reduces your environmental footprint.

Must-try dishes:
- Calulu: A fish or meat stew made with palm oil, vegetables, and dried fish
- Banana pão: Fried plantain dumplings
- Grilled octopus or catch-of-the-day served with matabala (cassava)

Support restaurants that use local ingredients like:
- Papa Figo Restaurant (São Tomé city)
- Roca São João for farm-to-table dining
- Beachside grills in Santana or Neves

Avoid imported food or drinks unless necessary—they add pressure to limited shipping and create extra waste.

4. Say No to Single-Use Plastics
São Tomé has limited waste disposal systems. Carry:
- A reusable water bottle (filtered water available at many hotels)
- Cloth tote bag for market shopping
- Reusable straw or cutlery for street food

Dispose of trash responsibly, and never leave litter at beaches or trails.

5. Respect Wildlife and Habitats
São Tomé is home to endangered sea turtles, rare birds, and untouched coral reefs.

As a visitor:
- Don’t disturb nesting turtles or hatchlings
- Avoid flash photography near wildlife
- Never feed animals or remove shells and coral
- Stick to marked trails when hiking in national parks

6. Offset Your Carbon Footprint
Getting to São Tomé often requires long-haul flights, typically connecting via Lisbon or Accra. Consider offsetting your emissions through verified platforms like Gold Standard or Sustainable Travel International.

7. Learn About Local Culture and History
São Tomé has a rich Afro-Portuguese heritage shaped by colonial history, cocoa plantations, and Creole traditions. Show respect by:

- Learning a few Portuguese phrases
- Dressing modestly in villages and religious sites
- Asking permission before photographing people
- Being mindful during festivals or religious observances

8. Buy Ethical Souvenirs
Look for locally made crafts such as:
- Batik fabrics
- Hand-carved wooden bowls and masks
- Local coffee and chocolate from cooperatives
- Dried herbs or essential oils

Avoid:
- Coral jewelry
- Items made from turtle shells or exotic hardwoods
- Mass-produced goods imported from elsewhere

Where to Shop:
- CACAU cultural center in São Tomé city
- Cooperativa Café de Monte Café
- Local craft vendors in Trindade or Neves

9. Choose Low-Impact Transportation
While rental cars are available, consider:
- Hiring a local driver/guide to reduce emissions
- Using shared taxis for short city trips
- Walking or biking where safe

São Tomé’s compact size makes slow travel possible and rewarding.

10. Volunteer or Contribute Thoughtfully
If you want to give back, look for reputable NGOs working on:
- Reforestation
- Women’s education
- Marine conservation
- Sustainable agriculture

Avoid “voluntourism” programs that lack local leadership or create dependency.

Best Time to Visit São Tomé

- Dry season: June to September
- Lush “green” season: October to May, ideal for birdwatching and waterfalls

Turtle nesting season runs November–March and is a highlight for wildlife lovers.

Packing List for Responsible Travel

- Biodegradable toiletries
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Lightweight, modest clothing
- Refillable water bottle
- Headlamp or solar-powered light
- Portuguese phrasebook or app
- Cash (ATMs are limited and unreliable)

Sample 3-Day Sustainable Itinerary

Day 1: São Tomé City and South Coast
- Morning: Visit the National Museum and central market
- Afternoon: Explore coffee plantations in Monte Café
- Evening: Dinner at Papa Figo and overnight at eco-lodge

Day 2: Obo National Park
- Morning: Guided hike in Bom Sucesso Forest
- Afternoon: Visit Lagoa Amélia and birdwatching
- Evening: Traditional meal at Roça São João

Day 3: Beach and Culture
- Morning: Relax at Praia Jalé and learn about turtle conservation
- Afternoon: Cultural tour of São João dos Angolares
- Evening: Shop for souvenirs and enjoy local music

Final Thoughts

Traveling responsibly in São Tomé isn’t just about reducing your footprint—it’s about embracing a deeper connection with a place that’s rich in biodiversity, culture, and community.

By making informed, ethical choices, you help preserve São Tomé for future generations while enjoying one of Africa’s last true island paradises.