A hidden treasure in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean

São Tomé and Príncipe is a small African island nation in the Gulf of Guinea, off the west coast of Africa and near the Equator. It consists of two main islands, São Tomé and Príncipe, of volcanic origin. It is known for its lush nature and enormous biodiversity, with tropical forests, volcanic peaks, dark sand beaches, and marine life. In 2012, Príncipe Island was classified as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and, with the inclusion of São Tomé in 2025, it became the first country in the world with its entire territory classified. The Lusophone heritage is prominent (Portuguese is the official language).

The Pestana Group is present on the island of São Tomé with two units of distinct profiles. The Pestana São Tomé is located next to the city of São Tomé, the capital, a practical base for exploring the historic center, urban life and the coast. The Pestana Equador is located on Ilhéu das Rolas, in the south of the island of São Tomé, crossed by the Equator, with a more secluded tropical resort atmosphere, surrounded by beaches, sea and nature. Both options allow you to combine the cultural and urban aspects with the beach experience.

The climate is equatorial, hot and humid all year round, with relatively constant temperatures. The best time coincides with the dry season, between June and September (locally "gravana"), when there is less rain and more favorable conditions for the beach, hiking, diving and walks through the forest. However, it can be visited at any time of year. This dry period is also ideal for enjoying the beaches and outdoor activities near the Pestana São Tomé and Pestana Equador hotels.

Access is via São Tomé International Airport (TMS), a few kilometers from the city center of São Tomé. There are regular connections to Europe, notably direct flights to Lisbon (by airlines such as TAP and STP Airways), taking about 7 hours, making Lisbon the main Portuguese-speaking entry point. The more remote island of Príncipe can be reached from São Tomé by short-haul domestic flights. The airport's proximity to the city facilitates arrival at the Pestana São Tomé and transfer to Ilhéu das Rolas (Pestana Equador).

Among the highlights is Pico Cão Grande, a spectacular needle-shaped volcanic pinnacle rising above the forest, reaching 663 m in altitude. It's worth exploring the beaches of southern São Tomé, such as Praia Jalé (important for turtle nesting) and Ilhéu das Rolas, and Boca do Inferno. The agricultural heritage is revealed in the old cocoa and coffee plantations, and the dense tropical forest invites hiking and bird watching. The colonial architecture and cathedrals of the capital complete the experience. The Pestana São Tomé and Pestana Equador hotels serve as bases.

On the islands, the most practical option is a car with a driver or a transfer service, which allows you to travel the roads to the beaches, plantations, viewpoints, and forests in comfort and with local knowledge. For travel between São Tomé Island and Príncipe Island, the usual option is short-haul domestic flights. The Pestana São Tomé, near the city and the airport, and the Pestana Equador, on Ilhéu das Rolas, facilitate the organization of transfers and tours to explore the archipelago.