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The Best of Principe Holiday
Probably one of the most amazing archipelago's you'll ever visit
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The unforgettable experiences you’ll have on our Best of Principe Holiday will stay with you forever.
The perfect island of Principe has a beauty and charm that’s truly captivating. The archipelago is situated in the Gulf of Guinea, just off the west coast of Africa and is easily accessible by plane from neighbouring Sao Tome.
The busy world we all live in has yet to reach the tranquil shores of this tiny island, yet there you can find comfort and luxury in the small number of luxury hotels on the island. For this particular trip we have suggested staying at Praia Sundy, one of the leading eco hotels in West Africa.
If you’re looking to escape, then look no further…
Day 1
Fly from Heathrow to Lisbon. On arrival transfer Solar do Castelo, which is situated just below the Castle of Sao Joao in Lisbon (20mins).
Accommodation on this day: Solar do Castelo
Day 2
Transfer to the airport and fly to Sao Tome. On arrival you’ll be transferred to Omali Lodge where you’ll stay for 2 nights.
Accommodation on this day: Omali Lodge
Day 3
Today we have included a Tour of Sao Tome City visiting the Fortress of Sao Sebastian, Independence Square, Cathedral Nossa Senhora da Graca, old and new markets and Cacao Gallery. You will have lunch at a local restaurant. In the evening you’ll have dinner at Omali Lodge.
Day 4
Today you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight to Principe. On arrival, transfer to Praia Sundy where you’ll stay for 4 nights. Settle into your villa – you might like to have your complimentary massage this afternoon too. Dinner at Praia Sundy.
Accommodation on this day: Praia Sundy
Day 5
Today you will go on your included activity – a gentle 3-4 hour guided walk to Ribeira Ize, the first capital of Principe. You can still see the ruins of its church and the house of Maria Correia, a well known historical figure of Sao Tome and Principe.
Accommodation on this day: Praia Sundy
Day 6
Free day to enjoy Praia Sundy and some additional activities such as boat trips, guided walks or jeep tours.
Accommodation on this day: Praia Sundy
Day 7
Free day to enjoy Praia Sundy and some additional activities such as paddle boarding, snorkelling or kayaking.
Accommodation on this day: Praia Sundy
Day 8
Transfer back to the airport and fly back to Sao Tome, where on arrival you will be taken to Omali Lodge. Dinner at Omali Lodge.
Accommodation on this day: Omali Lodge
Day 9
Transfer to the airport for your overnight flight back home via Lisbon.
Day 10
Today you arrive home.
Turtle Watching
Quietly observe one of the four different endangered turtle species: Olive Ridley, Green, Hawksbill or Leatherback nesting or hatching on the beaches between November and March.
Whale Watching
Search for magnificent humpback whales as they migrate past the islands between July and October.
Guided Birdwatching
Sao Tome and Principe has the highest density of endemic birds (birds that can't be found anywhere else) worldwide. 75 species regularly occur on the islands, with 17 being endemic to Sao Tome and 8 to Principe.
Guided Walks
There is no better way to get to know Sao Tome and Principe than to walk through the rainforest with our friendly guides who are only to happy to share the secrets of their island with you.
Plantation Visits
Discover the beating heart of Sao Tome and Principe's history on a visit to one of the many splendid old plantations.
Snorkelling
The Gulf of Guinea is one of the world’s hotpots for marine biodiversity and in terms of species present, is similar to the Caribbean. You’ll discover colourful shoals of fish as you snorkel close to your hotel.
Cycling
The roads in the north-west of Sao Tome are just fantastic to explore on two wheels. Pedal the gently-undulating palm-tree-lined coast road and you'll be rewarded by many kilometres of spectacular views.
Diving
There are several dive centres on the islands where qualified, experienced dive instructors will show you snapper, octopus, moray eels, sea horses, giant sea slugs and much more.
Praia Sundy
It’s no surprise that the striking Praia Sundy in Principe has been voted one of National Geographic’s Unique Lodges of the world. It offers everything you expect from an exceptional lodge – exclusivity, comfort and outstanding service.
This perfect hideaway is surrounded by tropical forest and has direct access to a private beach. The 15 tented villas all have wood panelled walls and private terraces with comfortable sofas. The interior is spacious and decorated with local handcrafts and designer pieces, whilst the magnificent ocean can be seen through the floor to ceiling sliding windows.
Some of the rooms come with their own private plunge pool – although all have A/C, a safe, telephone, television and a maxi bar replenished daily with local fruits and juices. The beautifully designed en-suite bathroom comes with a freestanding granite bath and a range of locally produced toiletries like soaps, oils and creams, which are made at the nearby Roca Pacienca.
This is the perfect romantic escape for couples and honeymooners looking for something special; Praia Sundy’s one bed room tented villas with its four poster bed, would be a perfect retreat.
Families with older children can stay in a two or three bedroom tented villa, where instead of an inter connecting door, you cross a few meters of private decking area under the cover of a canvas canopy.
Solar do Castelo
Solar Do Castelo is a romantic boutique hotel in Lisbon created from an 18th century mansion built on the site of the former kitchens of the Royal Palace of Sao Jorge.
Arguably the best located hotel in the city, it’s also the only property within the medieval walls of Sao Jorge Castle, making it an exclusive and unique place to spend time in the beautiful city of Lisbon. To add to the feeling of exclusivity, only locals and taxis are allowed to drive the narrow streets within the city walls.
The furniture was created especially for the hotel and the rooms are elegantly decorated in a contemporary medieval style. A private patio garden with a pretty inner courtyard gives you space to relax within the heart of the city.
Omali Lodge
Set in attractive gardens on the outskirts of Sao Tome city, boutique style hotel Omali Lodge has an outdoor pool, 30 rooms and English speaking staff. Recently refurbished, it is owned by the HBD (Here Be Dragons) company which also owns Bom Bom Island Eco Lodge on Príncipe.
All rooms are immaculate and have tea and coffee making facilities, A/C, Satellite TV, mini bar and en-suite bathrooms. It has the only tennis court on the island and is just over the road from the beach. Birdwatchers will tick off quite a few birds in the lush gardens of the lodge.
Where is Sao Tome and Principe?
Sao Tome and Principe is found in the Gulf of Guinea, 250km west of Gabon on the African mainland. The two main islands sit 150km, or a 30-minute flight, apart. Combined, they have a surface area of 1,001 square km and constitute the second smallest country in Africa after the Seychelles.
When is the best time to visit?
Tropical, hot and humid all year round with maximum of 30˚C from January to April, and slightly cooler from May to September. Both islands have dry and wet seasons. June to September is cooler, with more cloud and virtually no rain, whilst March to May and October to December are considered the wettest months, when days often bring a mix of rain and clear skies.
How do I get to Sao Tome?
Options for getting to the islands are relatively limited and the best is with TAP Air Portugal, via Lisbon (with a short stopover in Accra). Low-cost airlines Easyjet and Ryanair also fly to Lisbon and we can arrange separate tickets to São Tomé from there. Flights between Sao Tome and Principe are with STP (the local island carrier). Flights are included with your holiday and your São Tomé specialist will find the best flight times and prices for you.
Do I need a visa for Sao Tome?
If you stay more than 15 days you will need a visa and we arrange this for you as part of your holiday. Visas can’t currently be paid for in advance – they are inserted into your passport on arrival at the airport in Sao Tome so you will need to pay €20 per person in cash at this stage.
Is it safe to travel in Sao Tome?
Sao Tome and Principe is a very safe holiday destination and the crime rate is very low. However, petty theft is becoming more common especially in built-up areas so we advise only carrying enough money for the day and keeping the rest in a hotel safe. Whilst there are many lovely beaches on the islands, they don’t have lifeguards. Swimming in the ocean around the islands is amazing, however we always advise that you check with the hotel where you are staying with to make sure the conditions are safe as there can be strong undertows and current on some beaches. The first rule of thumb is to check first. The second one would be that if there are large rolling breakers, then it is advisable not to go in.
Do I need vaccinations for Sao Tome?
It’s always best to check with your doctor to make sure you are up to date with your vaccinations before you travel.
Are there any wildlife hazards in Sao Tome?
The black cobra is the most dangerous and poisonous animal on Sao Tome and is most commonly found in forested areas in the south and east of the island. Like most snakes, they try to avoid contact with humans and are therefore rarely seen.
It’s also advisable to try avoid insect bites by wearing long sleeves and trousers and/or wearing insect repellent with DEET, as malaria is present on Sao Tome. For comprehensive health advice on visiting Sao Tome please visit www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk.
The unforgettable experiences you’ll have on our Best of Principe Holiday will stay with you forever.
The perfect island of Principe has a beauty and charm that’s truly captivating. The archipelago is situated in the Gulf of Guinea, just off the west coast of Africa and is easily accessible by plane from neighbouring Sao Tome.
The busy world we all live in has yet to reach the tranquil shores of this tiny island, yet there you can find comfort and luxury in the small number of luxury hotels on the island. For this particular trip we have suggested staying at Praia Sundy, one of the leading eco hotels in West Africa.
If you’re looking to escape, then look no further…
Day 1
Fly from Heathrow to Lisbon. On arrival transfer Solar do Castelo, which is situated just below the Castle of Sao Joao in Lisbon (20mins).
Accommodation on this day: Solar do Castelo
Day 2
Transfer to the airport and fly to Sao Tome. On arrival you’ll be transferred to Omali Lodge where you’ll stay for 2 nights.
Accommodation on this day: Omali Lodge
Day 3
Today we have included a Tour of Sao Tome City visiting the Fortress of Sao Sebastian, Independence Square, Cathedral Nossa Senhora da Graca, old and new markets and Cacao Gallery. You will have lunch at a local restaurant. In the evening you’ll have dinner at Omali Lodge.
Day 4
Today you’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight to Principe. On arrival, transfer to Praia Sundy where you’ll stay for 4 nights. Settle into your villa – you might like to have your complimentary massage this afternoon too. Dinner at Praia Sundy.
Accommodation on this day: Praia Sundy
Day 5
Today you will go on your included activity – a gentle 3-4 hour guided walk to Ribeira Ize, the first capital of Principe. You can still see the ruins of its church and the house of Maria Correia, a well known historical figure of Sao Tome and Principe.
Accommodation on this day: Praia Sundy
Day 6
Free day to enjoy Praia Sundy and some additional activities such as boat trips, guided walks or jeep tours.
Accommodation on this day: Praia Sundy
Day 7
Free day to enjoy Praia Sundy and some additional activities such as paddle boarding, snorkelling or kayaking.
Accommodation on this day: Praia Sundy
Day 8
Transfer back to the airport and fly back to Sao Tome, where on arrival you will be taken to Omali Lodge. Dinner at Omali Lodge.
Accommodation on this day: Omali Lodge
Day 9
Transfer to the airport for your overnight flight back home via Lisbon.
Day 10
Today you arrive home.
Turtle Watching
Quietly observe one of the four different endangered turtle species: Olive Ridley, Green, Hawksbill or Leatherback nesting or hatching on the beaches between November and March.
Whale Watching
Search for magnificent humpback whales as they migrate past the islands between July and October.
Guided Birdwatching
Sao Tome and Principe has the highest density of endemic birds (birds that can't be found anywhere else) worldwide. 75 species regularly occur on the islands, with 17 being endemic to Sao Tome and 8 to Principe.
Guided Walks
There is no better way to get to know Sao Tome and Principe than to walk through the rainforest with our friendly guides who are only to happy to share the secrets of their island with you.
Plantation Visits
Discover the beating heart of Sao Tome and Principe's history on a visit to one of the many splendid old plantations.
Snorkelling
The Gulf of Guinea is one of the world’s hotpots for marine biodiversity and in terms of species present, is similar to the Caribbean. You’ll discover colourful shoals of fish as you snorkel close to your hotel.
Cycling
The roads in the north-west of Sao Tome are just fantastic to explore on two wheels. Pedal the gently-undulating palm-tree-lined coast road and you'll be rewarded by many kilometres of spectacular views.
Diving
There are several dive centres on the islands where qualified, experienced dive instructors will show you snapper, octopus, moray eels, sea horses, giant sea slugs and much more.
Praia Sundy
It’s no surprise that the striking Praia Sundy in Principe has been voted one of National Geographic’s Unique Lodges of the world. It offers everything you expect from an exceptional lodge – exclusivity, comfort and outstanding service.
This perfect hideaway is surrounded by tropical forest and has direct access to a private beach. The 15 tented villas all have wood panelled walls and private terraces with comfortable sofas. The interior is spacious and decorated with local handcrafts and designer pieces, whilst the magnificent ocean can be seen through the floor to ceiling sliding windows.
Some of the rooms come with their own private plunge pool – although all have A/C, a safe, telephone, television and a maxi bar replenished daily with local fruits and juices. The beautifully designed en-suite bathroom comes with a freestanding granite bath and a range of locally produced toiletries like soaps, oils and creams, which are made at the nearby Roca Pacienca.
This is the perfect romantic escape for couples and honeymooners looking for something special; Praia Sundy’s one bed room tented villas with its four poster bed, would be a perfect retreat.
Families with older children can stay in a two or three bedroom tented villa, where instead of an inter connecting door, you cross a few meters of private decking area under the cover of a canvas canopy.
Solar do Castelo
Solar Do Castelo is a romantic boutique hotel in Lisbon created from an 18th century mansion built on the site of the former kitchens of the Royal Palace of Sao Jorge.
Arguably the best located hotel in the city, it’s also the only property within the medieval walls of Sao Jorge Castle, making it an exclusive and unique place to spend time in the beautiful city of Lisbon. To add to the feeling of exclusivity, only locals and taxis are allowed to drive the narrow streets within the city walls.
The furniture was created especially for the hotel and the rooms are elegantly decorated in a contemporary medieval style. A private patio garden with a pretty inner courtyard gives you space to relax within the heart of the city.
Omali Lodge
Set in attractive gardens on the outskirts of Sao Tome city, boutique style hotel Omali Lodge has an outdoor pool, 30 rooms and English speaking staff. Recently refurbished, it is owned by the HBD (Here Be Dragons) company which also owns Bom Bom Island Eco Lodge on Príncipe.
All rooms are immaculate and have tea and coffee making facilities, A/C, Satellite TV, mini bar and en-suite bathrooms. It has the only tennis court on the island and is just over the road from the beach. Birdwatchers will tick off quite a few birds in the lush gardens of the lodge.
Where is Sao Tome and Principe?
Sao Tome and Principe is found in the Gulf of Guinea, 250km west of Gabon on the African mainland. The two main islands sit 150km, or a 30-minute flight, apart. Combined, they have a surface area of 1,001 square km and constitute the second smallest country in Africa after the Seychelles.
When is the best time to visit?
Tropical, hot and humid all year round with maximum of 30˚C from January to April, and slightly cooler from May to September. Both islands have dry and wet seasons. June to September is cooler, with more cloud and virtually no rain, whilst March to May and October to December are considered the wettest months, when days often bring a mix of rain and clear skies.
How do I get to Sao Tome?
Options for getting to the islands are relatively limited and the best is with TAP Air Portugal, via Lisbon (with a short stopover in Accra). Low-cost airlines Easyjet and Ryanair also fly to Lisbon and we can arrange separate tickets to São Tomé from there. Flights between Sao Tome and Principe are with STP (the local island carrier). Flights are included with your holiday and your São Tomé specialist will find the best flight times and prices for you.
Do I need a visa for Sao Tome?
If you stay more than 15 days you will need a visa and we arrange this for you as part of your holiday. Visas can’t currently be paid for in advance – they are inserted into your passport on arrival at the airport in Sao Tome so you will need to pay €20 per person in cash at this stage.
Is it safe to travel in Sao Tome?
Sao Tome and Principe is a very safe holiday destination and the crime rate is very low. However, petty theft is becoming more common especially in built-up areas so we advise only carrying enough money for the day and keeping the rest in a hotel safe. Whilst there are many lovely beaches on the islands, they don’t have lifeguards. Swimming in the ocean around the islands is amazing, however we always advise that you check with the hotel where you are staying with to make sure the conditions are safe as there can be strong undertows and current on some beaches. The first rule of thumb is to check first. The second one would be that if there are large rolling breakers, then it is advisable not to go in.
Do I need vaccinations for Sao Tome?
It’s always best to check with your doctor to make sure you are up to date with your vaccinations before you travel.
Are there any wildlife hazards in Sao Tome?
The black cobra is the most dangerous and poisonous animal on Sao Tome and is most commonly found in forested areas in the south and east of the island. Like most snakes, they try to avoid contact with humans and are therefore rarely seen.
It’s also advisable to try avoid insect bites by wearing long sleeves and trousers and/or wearing insect repellent with DEET, as malaria is present on Sao Tome. For comprehensive health advice on visiting Sao Tome please visit www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk.
