São Tomé and Príncipe, a tiny archipelago in the Gulf of Guinea, off the west coast of Africa, is a hidden gem. These volcanic islands are a biodiversity hotspot, boasting a number of endemic species due to their isolation. They offer the chance to track endemic birds in the rainforest, snorkel alongside sea turtles, or watch humpback whales breach offshore, all in one of the most pristine and untouched corners of the world. It’s not a ‘safari’ destination as such, but certainly a wonderful habitat to relax in Mother Nature and see its wildlife along the way.
The islands’ rainforests are home to unique and charismatic wildlife, particularly their birdlife. São Tomé is known as the ‘Galápagos of Africa’ for its rich biodiversity, with species such as the São Tomé grosbeak, the world’s largest canary, and the São Tomé ibis, a critically endangered wading bird. On land, São Tomé and Príncipe are home to several species of monkeys, including the mona monkey, which was likely introduced centuries ago but has become a defining feature of the islands’ forests.
Unique species
São Tomé and Príncipe’s isolation has resulted in an incredible number of species found nowhere else. Among the most notable are the São Tomé shrew, a tiny mammal endemic to the island, and the São Tomé free-tailed bat, which is adapted to the island’s dense forest canopy. Reptiles such as the São Tomé giant gecko and the São Tomé caecilian, a limbless amphibian, add to the islands’ unique terrestrial wildlife. The islands are also home to several endemic frogs, including the São Tomé leaf-folding frog, a fascinating species with specialised breeding habits.
Birds and aquatic life
Birdwatching is a major draw to São Tomé and Príncipe, with more than 30 species endemic to the archipelago. Highlights including the Príncipe kingfisher, São Tomé paradise flycatcher, and Príncipe thrush. The islands’ forests and mangroves are alive with the sounds of both endemic and migratory birds, making them a haven for ornithologists and casual birders alike. The waters surrounding São Tomé and Príncipe are also teeming with marine biodiversity. Coral reefs and seagrass beds support a variety of fish, sea turtles, and dolphins. Some of Príncipe’s most special visitors are green, olive ridley, hawksbill and leatherback turtles, all threatened species that nest on Praia Grande between November and January, and hatch during February and April. During these times, there’s a conservation-focused trip, led by a local non-profit partner organisation Fundação Príncipe, to spot these wonderful creatures in their natural habitat. From July to October, humpback whales migrate through the islands’ waters, providing a spectacular sight for visitors. Whale sharks, the gentle giants of the ocean, are also known to frequent these waters.
Endangered wildlife
The isolated rainforests and coastal habitats of São Tomé and Príncipe shelter unique wildlife found nowhere else, including the São Tomé shrew, the São Tomé grosbeak (one of the world’s rarest birds), and critically endangered sea turtles that nest on its beaches. Habitat loss, deforestation, and climate change threaten these fragile ecosystems, making conservation efforts crucial to protecting the islands’ incredible biodiversity.
Something different
One of the most unique experiences in São Tomé and Príncipe is exploring its volcanic landscapes, where endemic plants and animals thrive. The Pico Cão Grande, a striking volcanic plug rising dramatically from the rainforest, is not only a natural wonder but also a habitat for some of the islands’ rarest species. The islands’ pristine beaches, such as Praia Jalé, offer the chance to witness the magical and humbling experience of sea turtles nesting at night. For divers and snorkellers, the clear waters around Príncipe Island reveal vibrant coral reefs and a kaleidoscope of marine life.
If these wildlife species of São Tomé and Príncipe impress you and you’re dreaming of a holiday we’d love to help. Please do reach out via telephone or email.
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