Where to stay on Sao Tome and Principe

The lesser known aspect of these islands is part of their charm, but it does make the question of where to stay on Sao Tome and Principe much harder. Because so few people have travelled here the islands remain largely undocumented, so we thought we’d share some of our insights with you.

Since Ian’s very first visit, several of the Archipelago Choice team have been out to stay on the islands. The purpose of these familiarisation trips is to discover the real highlights: the best activities, nicest excursions, and what’s generally on offer. During our visits we have stayed in lots of different lodgings, from well-known luxury resorts to the lesser known gems.

If you like to be pampered, the Sundy Praia is a fantastic choice. Or perhaps you like rustic and local, in which case we use places like the rainforest plantation house – Roca Bombaim. we’ve tried and tested boutique hotels, self-sufficient eco-lodges, restored plantation houses, and tented lodges. This means that when you come to us for a holiday we can offer advice on a broad range of options.

Mucumbli

Locally-run Mucumbli has a wonderful home-from-home feel, with beautifully made chalets overlooking the ocean. We love Mucumbli for it’s location. It’s immersed in the rainforest and is a social enterprise. The lodge is part of a community project that encompasses eco-friendly living, sustainable agriculture, and job sustainability for the local population. What’s more, there’s plenty to do, from cycling to guided walks, whale watching trips, turtle watching and plantation tours.

Roca Sao Joao

While not for everyone, Roca Sao Joao offers you the opportunity to experience something really different during your tailor-made holiday. We invite you to step back in time and get a feel for how things used to be. You stay in the main house, a wooden mansion with a pretty veranda. In contrast to the rooms, which are elegant but simple and unfussy, meals at Roca Sao Joao are delightful and inventive. The dining experiences are a real highlight.

Bom Bom Island Eco Lodge

Whether you’re romantically inclined or not, there’s something pure and blissful about Bom Bom, and it’s recently been renovated too! You can snorkelling in the ocean from beach-front rooms, stroll along the long boardwalk, take a boat trip along Principe’s incredible coast, or go on a guided hike, along spectacular trails that meander through the rainforest.

Club Santana

With a dive centre, infinity pool, sandy beach and kayaks and paddleboards free for guests to use, Club Santana is another of our favourite choices for families. The air-conditioned bungalows provide the perfect base from which to explore the north and south of Sao Tome on our jeep tours and guided walks. We recommend taking the boat over to Santana islet and (if you’re feeling brave!) jumping overboard to snorkel in the deep blue crystal clear water.