Detailed Itinerary - January 9-17, 2024
Tuesday, January 9 São Tomé
You will be met on arrival in São Tomé and transferred to Omali Lodge. São Tomé is the larger and more developed island where you can shop at the markets and get a dose of city energy. You will have one night at a boutique property here. Explore the social and cultural life of the local community and enjoy a chocolate dining experience tonight.
1 Night at Omali Lodge on a full-board basis including classic room accommodation, all meals & house drinks, tea & coffee, airport transfers, and Wi-Fi.
Omali Lodge is perfectly situated close to the airport, the capital center, and the beach. Omali, meaning ocean and source of life, is renowned for its wonderful garden and grounds, a quiet place to relax in, especially by the pool.
Wednesday, January 10 Principe & Explore the Cacao Route
You will fly to the island of Príncipe by a 35-minute scenic flight over the Gulf of Guinea. Príncipe Island is part of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves, a global program to foster the conservation of biological and cultural diversity and promote economic development. High end, sustainable tourism is a key driver of the economy here in this unspoiled land that time forgot. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to Roça Sundy. You will spend the next few days exploring the rich cultural history with land and water activities. Beach time and relaxation are also on the agenda.
There’s no better way to understand Príncipe’s agricultural past than this curated ‘tree-to-table’ experience, which vividly brings the island’s chocolate story to life. During a visit to an agroforestry plantation and small-batch chocolate factory, you’ll learn the secrets of the drying process, and taste a range of delicious, cacao-packed treats.
3 Nights at Roça Sundy on a full-board basis including eclipse yard room accommodation, all meals & house drinks, tea & coffee, one daily half-day guided experience, and Wi-Fi.
Thursday, January 11 Boat Trip to the Bay of Needles
With prehistoric phonolite towers which rise dramatically from the landscape, Baía das Agulhas, or the Bay of Needles, is a geographical wonder. Take a boat trip to this otherworldly bay, within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and on the edge of the Parque Natural do Príncipe, to swim and snorkel.
Friday, January 12 Oquê Pipi Waterfall
Trek through the rainforest in the Parque Natural do Príncipe to the island’s largest waterfall, Oquê Pipi, for a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear natural pool. As you hike, an expert guide shares their knowledge of Príncipe’s unique wildlife, while looking out for birds and elusive civets. The birdlife here includes at least 27 endemic species, while the famous Galapagos holds 21 in an area that is eight times larger!
Saturday, January 13 Cultural Drive to Sundy Praia
Following breakfast at Roça Sundy, you will embark on a half-day tour of Principe with lunch in Santo Antonio, the world's smallest capital city. Soak up tropical scenery on this culture-packed driving adventure, which passes through many of Príncipe’s historic roças, stopping off to see local artisans at work, such as ecopreneur Bela de Pina, who crafts jewelry from glass bottles. You will then be transferred to Sundy Praia. Over the next three days you will be able to explore the rainforest, beaches, and Lost City Trail. You will also have plenty of time to stroll along the beach and relax.
4 Nights at Sundy Praia on a full-board basis including one-bedroom villa accommodation, all meals & house drinks, tea & coffee, one daily half-day experience, one 30-minute welcome massage, airport transfers, and Wi-Fi.
Described as Heaven on Earth, Sundy Praia is nestled in the forest, only steps away from the beach. Each villa is built with natural eco-friendly materials, with spacious areas and all the comforts only places built with a warm soul can offer. All villas are en-suite with a lounge and wraparound terrace area.
Sunday, January 14 Rainforest to Beach & Turtle Nesting
Beginning at Roça Sundy, meander through historic forests before emerging at a secret, nestled beach for a specially prepared delectable surprise. Afterwards enjoy a dip in the ocean, before taking a stroll along the coast to Sundy Praia.
Join Fundação Principe to see first-hand the turtle nesting activity that happens on Praia Grande Beach at this time of year. Three species of turtles come here – Hawksbill, Green, and Leatherback – every night from December to April to lay their eggs in the deep sand.
Monday, January 15 Explore the Northeast Beaches
Journey by boat across glittering turquoise waters to the enchanting beaches of Príncipe’s northeastern coast, including photogenic Praia Banana and Praia Boi. On the way, visit a small fishing village to learn about age-old traditions and day-to-day life on the island.
Tuesday, January 16 The Lost City Trail
Walk from Praia Sundy through the jungle to wonder at the atmospheric, abandoned remains of Príncipe’s first settlement, Ribeira Izé. Here, the crumbling stone ruins of its Catholic Church still stand, tangled between gnarled ceiba tree roots. Afterwards amble along the beach, Praia Mocotó, and enjoy a cooling ocean swim.
Wednesday, January 17 São Tomé
You will fly back to São Tomé to connect with your international flight.