Hiking in São Tomé

You land on São Tomé and are greeted by the warmth, scents, and lush greenery. A short transfer takes you north to Mucumbli Lodge, which sits high above the sea, surrounded by dense vegetation and colorful birds. The adventure has begun! Here there's a trail that leads down to a peaceful beach – perfect for a first encounter with the island.

We recommend an extra night at the beginning of the trip to settle in after the journey before the hiking begins.

You meet your guide and get an introduction to the days ahead. The first hike then follows old stone-paved paths through the plantations' "shade forest," where cacao trees grow alongside breadfruit, jackfruit, and bananas. You visit several roças – small communities around the plantations – with their churches, old hospitals, and the scent of sugar cane in the air. The places we visit follow Fair Trade standards even if not all have the certification. The hike continues down toward the fishing village of Neves, along coast and beaches, through banana and coconut groves. At the river you meet locals who wash, talk, and live their daily lives.

You travel up to Monte Café, one of the island's most significant historical plantations. The hike goes through exotic forest at mid-altitude, where you can see both unusual plants and birds. You pass smaller plantations and meet people who work and live here. The day ends with a visit to the coffee museum, where you can follow the entire process from cultivation to finished drink. A cup of São Tomé coffee becomes a nice end to the day, before you check in at the lodge.

You travel to the edge of Obo National Park, which covers large parts of the island nation. From the botanical garden in Bom Sucesso begins a steeper hike up toward Lagoa Amélia, an old crater lake that today is covered by a thick layer of vegetation and surrounded by giant begonias. Then you continue through dense primary rainforest along a trail called "the runaways' path," where slaves once sought shelter. Here nature is intense: bamboo, mosses, lianas, orchids, and enormous trees that filter the light. Return to Monte Café for a second overnight stay.

The journey continues south with a stop at Roça Agua Izé, one of the island's largest and most impressive plantations. Here you can still see the buildings where cacao was once transported onward toward the sea. You hike up to the old hospital with views over the coast. Continue to São João de Angolares, where you eat lunch at a restaurant overlooking the bay and visit the plantation's cultural center. The journey then continues through palms and ylang-ylang trees, where dramatic sugar loaf mountains rise from the landscape.

You explore the pristine southern part of the island. The hike goes through coastal rainforest and out onto beaches with turquoise water and golden sand, surrounded by dense greenery. The trails lead to Malanza and further into the mangrove forest. Here you continue by boat through a quiet and fascinating ecosystem, rich with life. Then you hike back via the lively village of Porto Alegre.

After several days filled with impressions, a calmer day awaits. You can relax at the beach, known for different turtle species, hike in the nearby area, or join a boat trip to Ilhéu das Rolas, where the equator passes. On this Robinson Crusoe island you're met by clear water and a special feeling of being in the middle of the earth. In the afternoon you travel to the capital.

You discover the capital together with your guide. Here colorful colonial architecture meets vibrant city life in an exciting mix. You stroll along the waterfront avenue, through the market filled with fruit, spices, and colors, and on to Fort São Sebastião where a museum tells the story of slavery's history. There's also the opportunity to visit both a chocolate factory and a cultural center with local artists.

After breakfast you have free time before transfer to the airport. You leave an island that still feels unexpected and genuine – and that often lingers longer than you think.

Feel free to add a night or two after the trip to end with relaxation.