The most beautiful natural sites to discover São Tomé And Príncipe

This 1h30 hike leads through Ôbo National Park to the pretty Oquê Pipi waterfall. It's fairly easy, although you do need to watch where you step, especially in the rainy season. The route is marked with yellow arrows, but it's best to hire a guide. Along the way, you'll enjoy incredible views of the island's rugged coastline, while being alone in the world in the heart of lush natural surroundings. Bring water, a picnic and, above all, your bathing suit. The waters of the waterfall are refreshing!

At an altitude of 680 m, the Papagaio peak majestically dominates the town of Santo António. Experienced hikers can climb this mountain in 2 to 3 hours, depending on their pace and ability. There are a few tricky sections, including one where you have to hold on to a rope to climb. In the rainy season, the terrain is often slippery. Nhanu from Casa de Amor is a French-speaking guide who knows the route well. From the summit, you can enjoy magnificent views of the island's capital and its bay.

On your way to the centre or the south, you wander along the small winding roads, and suddenly there it is: Monte Pico, a mountain, so gigantic and so steep, whose rounded tip is hidden in the clouds. At 2,000 metres high, it is both a challenge to overcome and an invitation to discover. A challenge, because its steep slopes can be perilous for those who come ill-prepared. The dense virgin forest that surrounds it preserves its indomitable, even fearsome side. A jewel, because from the top of the peak, on clear days, one enjoys a spectacular view. A climb up the mountain will delight hikers and birdwatchers.

The excursion lasts two days. We leave from the Bom Successo Garden, the park's entrance point. We walk all day to camp at the foot of the mountain in the evening. In the morning, we get up very early to start the climb while it is still cool. We then take advantage of the magnificent spectacle of the sunrise. We go back down on the other side to Ponta Figo, where a car will have to pick us up. You can also sleep at the roça Bombain to have a little more comfort and leave early the next morning.

This hike is not an easy one, so it is necessary to prepare yourself a week in advance. It is necessary to be in good physical condition and to have a good guide. You can go with your own guide from São Tomé, all of them do excursions there, but you can also contact guides on the spot.