Angola, Saint Helena, and Sao Tome & Principe - the ultimate adventure for those travellers who enjoy getting off the beaten track.
This is a tour that is guaranteed to offer pure and authentic experiences for all travellers… a one-of-a-kind adventure to a unique corner of the African continent.
We start with Saint Helena – one of the most remote places on earth and, until not long ago, also one of the most inaccessible A haven for travelers seeking unique experiences, this subtropical paradise offers a breath of fresh air.
The tropical island of Saint Helena, secluded in the Atlantic Ocean, offers a paradise steeped in history. Trace the paths of famous figures like Darwin and Napoleon, exploring its rugged terrain and diverse wildlife. Saint Helena's rich history adds depth to its allure. During our week on the island, we will uncover Saint Helena’s extraordinary sights and natural wonders.
Experience a place where the mountainous terrain and micro-climates create an astounding diversity of landscapes. Saint Helena boasts impeccable beauty and unrefined nature, with ancient wrecks, giant stairways, great forts, natural wonders and extraordinary walks.
St Helena Island is truly remarkable, with a rich history dating back approximately 500 years. Famous as the place of Napoleon Bonaparte's exile and death, St Helena is a land of fascinating contrasts. With Jamestown as our base, we spend a week exploring all corners of the island - discovering centuries-old military fortifications and intriguing historical legacies.
Besides a rich history, the island is also home to some spectacular scenery. Every road here is a mountain pass and around every corner there is a view more breath-taking than the last!
From St Helena we continue to Angola - a journey that gets us to some truly remote parts of Africa. Angola is very much an ‘undiscovered’ and emerging destination, where arranging a visit used to be a complicated and burdensome visa process. But great news - a visa is no longer required for travellers from the US, Canada, Australia and the UK. So, there’s never been a better time to explore one of Africa’s least visited countries.
Our time here offers an adventure through some of the most untouched, traditional and isolated corners of the continent. You will not only be fascinated by the wealth of historical sites and stunning geography, but also the unique culture heritage - with an ethnic diversity which can only be compared to the Omo Valley in Ethiopia. The coastline is wild, the interior is mountainous with deep gorges and waterfalls, and the south offers up a semi-desert environment inhabited by ethnic groups whose traditions remain mostly intact. All of this will make for an unforgettable experience.
We will explore Luanda - the capital, where we experience the city’s cultural depth as we visit its' notable museums and landmarks. We will admire the Portuguese architecture and local markets. We fly to Lubango in the south, enabling us to venture further into the interior - an enchanting part of Angola where the fascinating lands of the Mucubal and Muila people offer a glimpse into their ancient ways. We explore remote settlements where we learn of the customs and ancient practices of some of the region’s most traditional peoples. These communities staunchly hold on to their way of life and the outside world is barely relevant.
Explore the beautiful landscapes and prehistoric rock art of Tchitundo Hulo, and visit remote oases. Journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Tundavala and Serra da Leba en route to Namibe, where we explore the desert’s natural wonders. Journey to the scenic Calandula Falls in Malanje. Witness the dramatic Pedras Negras de Pungo Andongo formations
This tour offers a rich blend of cultural, historical, and natural experiences across Angola, promising an unforgettable journey.
A short flight from Angola takes us São Tomé and Príncipe - a remote archipelago off the coast of central Africa, and a true off-the-beaten-path destination.
Here we will dive into the Portuguese colonial heritage of the islands, and walk through unspoiled forests in the interior and explore a truly undiscovered destination. Discover a place that few people have even heard of, let alone been to. Uncover a largely undiscovered, uniquely rewarding, exciting blend of African and Portuguese cultures. These secluded islands sit like tiny jewels in the waters of the Atlantic Ocean, and the aroma of coffee and cocoa invades the streets of this archipelago. This is a meeting point between Africa, the Americas and Portuguese Europe, crossed by the Equator and the Greenwich Meridian. This tiny archipelago-state - far from the tourist routes - offers a wild and generous land.
This is a true hidden gem nestled in the Gulf of Guinea. Our time is spent on São Tomé, the larger of the two islands, where we will be captivated by its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural wonders. Set along a beautiful bay in the northeast of Sao Tome Island, the national capital of Sao Tome offers an idyllic setting and faded grandeur. This town retains an endearing charm, featuring old Portuguese buildings lining quaint almond tree-fringed streets and crumbling colonial churches. Immerse yourself in the local rhythm at bustling markets.
It is here that a world of unparalleled natural beauty and rich cultural heritage awaits your discovery. Prepare to be captivated by the lush greenery, pristine beaches, and turquoise waters. With mist-shrouded volcanic peaks, dense rainforests teeming with exotic flora and fauna, and enchanting waterfalls, this destination offer unspoiled landscapes for nature lovers.
Prices below are per person, twin-sharing costs in US Dollars (USD). Pricing does not include airfare to/from the tour and any applicable taxes. For single supplement rates and taxes (if any), please refer to below Prices & Dates table. For general information on flights to/from the tour, click here.
Your Travel and Accommodation Arranged For You
Tips Included for Driver, Restaurant Staff, Local Guides
Authentic Local Experiences With Lots Of Inclusions.
Select a date below to reserve your spot:
$2500 DEPOSIT REQUIRED. Due to the nature of internal flights, an additional pre-payment of $3500 is required at time of "guarantee." Once paid, your initial deposit and additional payment become 100% non-refundable/non-transferable.
Optional Single Supplement: $1980 USD (number of singles limited).
This tour may require a mandatory single supplement charge of $1980 if you join our share program and we are unable to pair you.
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Day 1 Arrival in Johannesburg, South Africa
Welcome to South Africa, the starting point for this unique adventure.
Tomorrow morning we will board the weekly flight to Saint Helena Island - a destination that few people can say they have visited.
Our hotel for tonight will be at a property conveniently located near the Johannesburg - OR Tambo International Airport to allow for a short transfer tomorrow morning.
This is an ambitious itinerary and a true adventure! This is a tour for real travellers -- those who have passion for exploration and discovery -- those who seek an adventure that is off the 'tourist trail' to places where few have been before. Be sure to come with a true sense of adventure and a great travel spirit!
Note: This itinerary is heavily dependent upon regional air schedules, and has been developed using air schedules in place at the time of publish. Itinerary modifications and date adjustments may occur closer to the departure date if we are faced with flight routing and schedule changes. Such adjustment could impact the final itinerary. The order of the itinerary content may change, and the number of nights in each country or region visited may have to be adjusted.
* Due to the fact that tomorrow's flight only operates once a week, we also strongly recommend booking an extra night to avoid possible missed connections. This itinerary does not include any sightseeing or touring in or around Johannesburg. If this is something that you are interested in then you may want to consider arranging some extra nights prior to the tour.
Dinner if required.
Included Meal(s): Dinner
Day 2 Johannesburg to Saint Helena Island (via Walvis Bay) - Jamestown Touring
Today we depart for Saint Helena (with an en-route refueling stop in Walvis Bay, Namibia). The total travel time is approximately 6.5hrs. Commercial air services to St. Helena commenced in 2017 with a weekly flight connecting St Helena to South Africa.
Welcome to St Helena Island, a haven for those travellers who are seeking unique and unparalleled adventures. This British Overseas Territory in the South Atlantic Ocean, holds a storied history that stretches back centuries. Discovered in 1502 by Portuguese navigator João da Nova, it later became a vital outpost for ships traveling between Europe and the East Indies. Renowned for being the remote exile site of Napoleon Bonaparte from 1815 until his death in 1821, the island played a crucial role in shaping world history. Its rugged terrain and isolated location posed challenges for settlers, yet its fertile valleys supported agriculture and sustenance for inhabitants. Over time, Saint Helena developed a unique culture blending European, African, and Asian influences. Despite its small size and isolation, St Helena became strategically important and today it remains an intriguing destination with its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural landscapes.
This sub-tropical island is truly a spectacular destination and one of the most remote settled islands in the world. Saint Helena is 1,200 miles (1950km) from the southwest coast of Africa, and the nearest land is Ascension Island (703 miles / 1125km to the northwest). The history here is fascinating, and touches many aspects of world history. St Helena’s heritage provides a significant legacy of fortifications and historic buildings, and what has been described as “the quintessential Atlantic port” – Jamestown.
Upon arrival we will head from the airport (located on the eastern side of the island) to our hotel in Jamestown on the northern and leeward side of the island. This journey will take us past some small villages. The volcanic nature of the island is immediately apparent in the rugged coastline scenery.
This afternoon (flight schedules permitting) we will enjoy a walk through Jamestown and discover the stories that this historically rich Georgian styled capital has to offer. We will learn about the island, its people, and its rich history. We will visit the Castle with its tropical gardens, St James Church (the oldest Anglican Church in the Southern Hemisphere), the famous Jacob’s ladder which ascends 699 steps above the town and the Court House. This is an opportunity to learn about this volcanic island and the lives of the people who live on this British Atlantic outpost. If our schedule does not allow then the touring from this afternoon will take place over the following days.
The centrally located Mantis Hotel will be our home for the next 7 nights.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
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Day 3 St Helena: Coastal Cruise
This morning we will join a local skipper for a 1/2 day boat excursion off the St. Helena coastline. The cruise provides us with a scenic view of St Helena’s coastline, and allows us to view a few of the old fortifications and outposts that still stand today. The deep blue waters here are teeming with life, and if we are lucky we may have the chance to see schools of Pan-Tropical, Bottle-Nose and Rough-Toothed dolphins, as well as turtles and Devil Rays. Whale Shark activity in the region is seasonal.
We later return to port for lunch at a local coffee shop on the seafront and then you will have the afternoon at leisure.
Overnight in Jamestown,
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 4 St Helena Full Day Island Tour
Today we will enjoy a full day of island touring. The countryside terrain consists of many contrasts, ranging from wind-eroded desert with multi-coloured ridges and valleys, to verdant tree covered hillsides, soft pastures and lush vegetation-filled valleys. The surrounding coastline is magnificent with high cliffs dropping to rocks against which the Atlantic rollers pound.
Our touring will take us to Deadwood Plain, a former campsite of Boer prisoners of war during the Anglo Boer War of 1900-1902. From here it is just a short walk to Flagg Staff which provides us with wonderful panoramic views across the island. We will visit Fisher’s Valley where Napoleon rode his horse during his exile on the island, and Levelwood - home to the Bell Stone - a rock which when struck rings like a bell.
We will wind our way to the southwest point of the island for incredible views over the Atlantic Ocean, which stretches unbroken for 2700 kilometers in every direction. We will learn about the islands natural and historical attractions along the way.
Overnight in Jamestown
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Lunch
Day 5 St Helena - Plantation House, St Paul’s Cathedral & High Knoll Fort
Saint Helena has a small population, mainly descended from people of European ancestry (mostly planters, government employees and ex-soldiers serving in the local St Helena Regiment), Chinese and slaves (mostly from Madagascar and Asia, only a few coming from Africa from 1840 onward).
This morning we will enjoy a private tour of Plantation House (the Governor’s residence) - built in 1792. This has always been home to the island’s governors. Another famous inhabitant of the island is Jonathan, possibly the oldest giant tortoise in the world who has been trundling around for nearly two centuries. Jonathan was brought to the island from the Seychelles in 1882, along with three other tortoises.
After lunch we will visit St Paul’s Cathedral, the Boer War cemetery and High Knoll Fort. High Knoll Fort stands 584 metres (1,916 ft) above sea level and is the largest, most prominent and most complete of the forts and military installations on the island.
Overnight in Jamestown.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 6 St Helena - Free Day
Today is a day at leisure for you to explore at your own pace. Highly recommended is the very well curated Museum of St Helena (nearby to our hotel) which not only traces the varied history of the island, but also has artefacts from the number of wrecks that dot the coastline over the last 500 years. The museum is housed in a late-18th-century stone building, formerly the old power station, at the foot of Jacob’s Ladder.
You may also opt to book another boat cruise, or swim in the Atlantic – or in the public swimming pool that sits near the harbour -a great place to meet local islanders.
Overnight in Jamestown.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 7 St Helena: Blue Point Hike and Coffee Culture
This morning we set off for a hike to Blue Point which offers coastal views over Sandy Bay beach and Lots Wife ponds (sheltered natural pools) as well as the rolling countryside of Blue Hill. We will enjoy a packed lunch whilst out hiking. Note: The hike to Blue Point normally takes around 2.5 hours (return trip). There are some relatively minor up and down sections involved, but compared to other hikes on the island it is less strenuous and can comfortably be completed by most travellers of moderate fitness. Any questions or concerns that one may have can be addressed with our local guide.
In the afternoon we will visit one of the island's coffee plantations to view how some of the world’s rarest coffee is grown and processed. In 1733, coffee seeds were first brought to the island by its then owners - The East India Company. The Green Tipped Bourbon Coffee seeds were brought from the coffee port of Mocha in Yemen, on a Company ship the "Houghton". Green Tipped Bourbon Arabica is a subtle and delicate bean, which requires great care during harvesting, wet processing and roasting.
Overnight in Jamestown.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Lunch
Day 8 St Helena: Napoleonic Tour - Longwood House
Napoleon arrived in St Helena on the 15th of October 1815, after ten weeks at sea on board the HMS Northumberland. He died on the island 6 years later. William Balcombe, employee of the East India Company and one-time family friend of the French emperor, put Napoleon up at Briars Pavilion when he first arrived on the island. However a few months later in December 1815, the emperor was moved to nearby Longwood House.
This morning we visit all three Napoleonic sites owned by the French government, including Longwood House, where he lived and died. Today Longwood House is considered to be the most poignant and atmospheric of all the Napoleonic Museums, as it is preserved with its original furniture from 1821, complemented by over 900 artifacts. Today, all of St Helena’s Napoleonic attractions, including Longwood House, Briars Pavilion and Napoleon’s Tomb, are owned by the French Government.
After lunch we will plant an endemic tree within the Millennium forest. In the late 1990's it was decided that the island would embark upon an historic reforestation project - the Millennium Forest Project - a long-term effort to help restore the great wood that once covered an area in the east of the island.
We later return to our hotel for our final night on Saint Helena.
Overnight in Jamestown.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 9 St Helena - Fly to Johannesburg, South Africa
This morning after breakfast you may have some free time for a last bit of exploration around Jamestown. Perhaps this is the opportune time for you to climb the 699 steps of Jacob’s Ladder, a legendary landmark of the island. Incredible as it may seem, the first route from the valley floor direct to Signal House was a rope ladder, up and down which soldiers would climb travelling to and from the barracks at the top.
We later head to the airport for our return flight to Johannesburg where we overnight before our flight to Angola tomorrow.
Overnight in Johannesburg.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 10 Johannesburg, South Africa - Fly to Luanda, Angola
Today we fly from South Africa to Luanda, Angola.
Angola is truly an 'emerging' country where rich cultural experiences and marvelous scenery await. This is a destination just waiting to be explored.
With the Atlantic Ocean on its west coast, Angola is surrounded by Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia and Namibia. One of its provinces, Cabinda, borders the Republic of Congo as well as the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The vibrant port city of Luanda serves as the bustling capital of Angola. Positioned on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, Luanda is a city under construction. Its current renaissance is an inspiring success story. Decades of conflict had long held Angola back, but since the start of the 21st century there has been a massive construction boom as peace and stability have attracted numerous foreign companies. After the long-lasting civil war (1975-2005) the city seems to be permanently expanding.
During our touring of Luanda we will explore some of the key sights, from its impressive old colonial buildings to its bustling markets. A scenic stroll along the seafront promenade that fringes Luanda Bay provides picturesque views of the harbor and the well-preserved 16th-century Fortress of Sao Miguel. The São Miguel Fortress is a historical symbol of the city - built by the Portuguese in the 16th century in a strategic location on the bay of Luanda. The National Museum of Anthropology showcases the rich ethnic and cultural diversity of the country through an impressive collection of art, artifacts and traditional objects from Angola’s different ethnic groups. The Ilha do Cabo is a slender peninsula adorned with beaches.
One of Luanda's most iconic buildings is the Iron Palace, a project by Gustave Eiffel that now serves as an Angolan Culture Centre.
Hotel Baía Luanda
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 11 Luanda - Pedras Negras - Kalandula
This morning we will head out early and start our journey east towards the interesting and impressive rock formations of Pedras Negras (Black Stones). Here we discover some remarkable and extensive monolithic rock formations that are millions of years old… rising above the savanna.
We will also visit the emplacement of the Battle of Queen Nziga, an African woman well known for fighting for four decades against European occupation and the slavery of her people.
The verdant Malanje province in the centre north of the country is home to one of Angola’s most important natural heritage resources, the mighty Kalandula Falls (Calandula Falls). These horseshoe-shaped waterfalls are the second most powerful in Africa after Victoria Falls, and the roaring waters span a width of 400 meters, with a drop of 100 meters. The Kalandula Falls are truly a hidden treasure in Angola - partly because they’re not heavily promoted as a tourist destination and also because of their remote location.
Overnight at Pousada do Kalandula.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 12 Kalandula Falls - Luanda - Fly to Lubango
We return to Luanda by road (taking a different route from yesterday). We then connect with our flight to Lubango, the main city in southern Angola.
Set in a lush valley, Lubango is rich in colonial heritage mixed with the vibrancy of local culture. Situated at an elevation of 1760 meters, the city rests on the Huíla Plateau of southern Angola. Created in the late 19th century for colonists from the Madeira Islands, this former settlement is characterized by Portuguese architecture surrounded by a stunning natural landscape of verdant savannah and lush forest.
Time permitting we will explore the city center of Lubango with its beautiful colonial buildings and impressive 19th-century Church of Nossa Senhora do Monte. The large central square, Praça João Paulo II, provides a pleasant area for strolling. Local historical sites include the government palace, the cathedral, and the iconic Christ the King statue which overlooks Lubango. If time today does not allow then we will accomplish this sightseeing tomorrow or on Day 16.
Overnight at Casper Resort.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 13 Lubango: Muila Village - Chiba & Fenda da Tundavala
A true highlight of a visit to Angola is the opportunity to visit some of the tribal groups that inhabit the south of the country. Today we will visit a village belonging to the Muila people, where we meet the chief of the village and learn about their culture and traditions. The Muila (also known as: Mwela, Mumuila or Mumuhuila) are a semi nomadic tribe that live in the region of the Huila Plateau. Muila are famous for keeping to their traditional culture as exhibited in their hairstyles and how they adorn their body with ornaments (jewellery). Being semi-nomadic, the Muila engage in subsistence agriculture and some form of livestock keeping. They grow mostly maize as well as a few other staples, and the keep animals such as goat and cattle.
We later continue to the small town of Chibia with its interesting colonial architecture. Our last visit is to Tundavala in the heart of the Sierra de Leba in order to enjoy the sunset over the Namibe region. Here we find a setting rich in natural beauty, and featuring the Tundavala Gap - an astonishing gorge that slices through the Serra da Leba mountain at a depth of 1000 meters. This awe-inspiring abyss near Lubango is located right at the rim of the Serra da Leba mountain range, and this viewpoint is a magnificent vantage point.
Overnight at Casper Resort.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 14 Lubango - Virei - Tchitundo Hulo - Virei
There are approximately 90 ethnic groups in Angola, and many of them follow traditional lifestyles barely changed in centuries and living in landscapes defined by desert and mountain. Today we leave Lubango and head towards Virei, the heart of the Mucubal people. The Mucubal people are a subgroup of the Herero in the Namibe province of southwestern Angola, and having resisted integration they have managed to maintain their distinct way of life. Today they are semi-nomadic cattle pastoralists and rely primarily on cattle for their livelihood. Agriculture was introduced to the region in the 1990s but is still very rudimentary. The Mucubal were one of the last tribes to be controlled by the Portuguese colonial army and continue to maintain their nomadic lifestyle due to the harshness of the semi-desert territory in which they live.
We will make a short stop at the market before continuing our journey. As we leave Virei the landscape changes and rocky knolls become more and more common.
Our next destination is known as the Tchitundo-Hulo Prehistoric Rock Painting and Petroglyph complex - considered the sacred mountains of the Mucuis who along with the Mucubal inhabit this region. This is a semi-arid plain characterized by the presence of several inselbergs (isolated hills rising from the plain). In these rocks we find some unique cave paintings and engravings - one of the most valuable cultural treasures in Angola. The cave paintings of Tchitundo-Hulo are fingerprints of the earliest people who inhabited these lands.
Tonight's accommodation will be at 'Lodge Virei' - the only place one can overnight in this remote region of Angola. Best described as 'clean, comfortable but basic', this is definitely a no-frills experience that requires a true sense of adventure.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 15 Virei - Curoca - Lake Arco - Namibe
This morning we depart Virei and make a stop to see the great Mucubal cemetery where hundreds of antlers indicate the graves of many important members in Mucubal society.
We then continue our trip and make a stop at the freshwater oasis of Lake Arco. The curious rock formations here are accompanied by some natural lagoons formed by the Curoca River - making this an interesting stop. The area is home to a diversity of bird life, flora and a traditional farming community. The views around the lake are simply magnificent, and include amazing sandstone cliffs.
From here we continue to Namibe, historically named Mocamedes by the Portuguese settlers. This is a lively port city sandwiched between expansive desert terrain and the glistening South Atlantic Ocean in southwestern Angola. Located in the Namib Desert, this pleasant city boasts beautiful Portuguese colonial architecture, quaint stores and charming churches. This quiet city shows its colonial past through its streets, and the old Portuguese lighthouse is considered a local landmark.
Located on an arid coastal strip from which rises the steep Huíla escarpment, Namibe was more or less cut off from the Angolan interior until construction of the railway began in 1905 to Serpa Pinto (now Menongue) about 470 miles (755 km) east. Though the interior developed, the port, which was dependent on fishing, had little activity until the discovery of iron ore at Cassinga (Kassinga). The port’s harbour has subsequently been enlarged over the years and is one of the country’s busiest port facilities.
Time permitting we will either explore Namibe this afternoon or tomorrow morning.
Overnight at Hotel Chik Chik.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 16 Namibe - Serra da Leba - Gargana - Ngedelengo Village - Lubango
Today we head back towards Lubango, with our route taking us via the Serra da Leba Pass, one of Africa's most scenic roads and a national landmark in Angola. This breathtaking mountain road, built in the colonial era, is a marvel of engineering with its steep gradient and hairpin route through the Serra de Laba.
We later visit the village of Garganta. Here we meet the Nguendelengo people, who live by hunting, gathering and rearing livestock, and number anywhere from just a few hundred to a few thousand individuals. Living in a forested environment has allowed them to develop a rudimentary charcoal business. Ngendelengo people live under a clan-based tribal structure led by the eldest male. Machetes are an essential part of their attire, which is complemented by large crests as a hairstyle for unmarried boys and multiple topknots for women. The rest of their traditional culture includes two-story barns and bull worship rituals.
We continue on to Lubango for our overnight.
Overnight Hotel Casper Resort.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 17 Lubango - Fly to Luanda
Today we fly back to Luanda. Our sightseeing today is dependent upon the domestic flight schedule and will be adjusted accordingly.
Time permitting we will head to the Miradouro Da Lua - 'Viewpoint of the Moon'. Located about 40 km (25 mi) south of the capital, this striking otherworldly landscape is the product of millions of years of wind and rain erosion.
Overnight at Hotel Baía Luanda
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner
Day 18 Luanda, Angola - Fly to Sao Tome & Principe
Today we say farewell to Angola and fly to the country of Sao Tome and Principe - an island nation in the Gulf of Guinea off the coast of Central Africa.
The islands of São Tomé and Príncipe lie a hundred miles apart off the west African coast - roughly 160 miles (260km) off the coast of Gabon. With only a small number of visitors each year, this is a tropical paradise steeped in history and natural beauty, and those who visit learn to expect the unexpected. *The island of Príncipe is not visited on this tour.
Discovered by Portuguese explorers in the 15th century, São Tomé and Príncipe became a hub for sugarcane and cocoa production during the colonial era, leaving behind a legacy of plantation architecture and diverse cultural influences. The islands are known for their lush rainforests, waterfalls, endemic flora, and diverse wildlife, including several rare bird species. São Tomé, the larger island, is home to bustling markets, colonial-era buildings, and vibrant Afro-Portuguese culture… and charms visitors with its laid-back atmosphere, rich biodiversity, and the warmth of their welcoming people.
The touring today is dependent upon international flight schedules. As coffee is an integral part of São Tomé's history, after checking into our hotel we plan to start by exploring the island's interior and visiting Roça Monte Café, one of São Tomé's oldest colonial estates. Founded in 1858 this was once the largest coffee producer on the island. Today, coffee and cocoa are produced on a small scale, and the local community is deeply involved in the project. At the coffee museum, we will learn about traditional and modern coffee processing methods, the estate's history, and enjoy a delicious cup of Arabica or Robusta coffee produced here.
We will have lunch at a local restaurant where we enjoying a local tasting menu and beautiful jungle views. Later we will visit São Nicolau Waterfall before returning to our hotel.
During our time on Sao Tome we will be sure to spend some time in the capital city of Sao Tome, located on the east coast of the island and known for its colourful streets and markets. At the Bobo Forro market we will feel the pulse of the city and discover a variety of fish, tropical fruits, vegetables and medicinal herbs. In the Plaza de la Independencia we can appreciate colonial buildings such as the old Central Bank, and pass by the Cathedral of Nuestra Señora de la Gracia and the Presidential Palace. The National Museum of São Tomé, located in Fort São Sebastião, offers a real journey into the past of São Tomé and Príncipe.
Overnight at Omali Lodge Boutique Hotel
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 19 Sao Tome: East Coast Discovery
Today, we will explore the east coast of the island where we discover a landscape of lush beauty with cliffs, deserted beaches, plantations and picturesque villages.
Our first stop will be at Roça Água Ize, one of the most important colonial-era plantations in the archipelago. We will immerse ourselves in a setting kept alive by the inhabitants still living in this community. We will stop at the highest point, the hospital viewpoint, to observe the dimensions of the plantation and the views of Rei Beach Bay. Next, we will see Boca do Inferno, witnessing a natural spectacle as the waves crash against the basalt rocks, and enjoy a refreshing coconut water.
We will have lunch at Roça São João dos Angolares, offering an author's cuisine and enjoying a tropical fusion tasting menu blending European, African, and São Tomé flavors in an unparalleled setting.
Our route then continues south until we reach Porto Alegre. Along the way, we will make stops to admire the iconic Pico Cão Grande, a volcanic chimney turned island icon. Lastly, we will visit Praia Piscoeira, a tiny village of friendly people next to a basalt waterfall that flows a few meters from the sea - a wonderful setting where locals come to swim and fish.
Overnight at Omali Lodge Boutique Hotel
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 20 Sao Tome & Islote de Rolas
Today we will head to the Islet of Rolas - the closest point where the equator and zero meridian intersect. Our boat trip to this small slice of paradise takes approximately 20 minutes, and we will spend a full morning here exploring its tropical forest full of palm trees and witness incredible coves surrounded by volcanic rocks.
Upon arrival in Rolas island we will follow our guide on a short walk towards a marker: the Equator Line. As you stride across its path, you find yourself in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres simultaneously. Afterwards we will explore the astonishing beautiful beaches of the island and walk through the coconut plantations until we reach Café Beach. Here we will have lunch right on the beach and there will be an opportunity for a swim.
After lunch we will take the boat back to Porto Alegre and after a stroll through its picturesque and lively streets we return to our hotel.
Overnight at Overnight at Omali Lodge Boutique Hotel
Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Lunch
Day 21 Sao Tome: Northwest Coast Exploration
Today we will travel along a beautiful coastal road and explore the island's northwest coast: savannah and baobabs, fishing villages, and cocoa plantations.
We will stop at the Agostinho Neto plantation, formerly known as "Rio do Oro" - founded in 1865 and the largest plantation in São Tomé. Emblematic for its size, architectural grandeur, and technological capacity, it had the most advanced railway system in the archipelago.
Along our route we will enjoy some wonderful views of the island, and pass by Ribeira Funda Beach. We will continue along the coast to the city of Neves, the country's largest fishing area. We will enjoy a local lunch of famous centollo crab at the typical Santola restaurant.
We will stop at the small bay of Lagoa Azul, known not only for its turquoise waters but also for its baobabs near the beach. In the afternoon, we will visit Santa Catarina tunnel and the historic Anambô point - where Portuguese discoverers first set foot on São Tomé in 1470.
Overnight at Omali Lodge Boutique Hotel.
Included Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 22 Departure from Sao Tome
Today we say farewell to Sao Tome.
SAFE TRAVELS!
Included Meal(s): Breakfast
Inclusions
Full-time Tour Leader services plus local guide support at several locations.
Breakfast and most dinners (local restaurants & hotels) daily and some lunches (restaurants, cafes and picnic style - see detailed itinerary).
All transport (including internal flights and taxes), accommodation, sightseeing and entrance fees for sites noted as 'visited' in the detailed itinerary.
Gratuities for all local guides, drivers, restaurant staff, porters.
Airport transfers for land & air customers and for early arriving/late departing passengers who book their extra nights through us.
Exclusions
International airfare to/from the tour.
Tour Leader gratuities, most lunches, a few dinners, drinks, personal items (phone, laundry, etc), international air taxes (if applicable), entrance & visa fees (if any), and any excursions referenced as 'optional'.
Airport transfers for Land Only customers.
Trip cancellation and medical insurance.
Seasonality and Weather
St Helena has a tropical climate, but this is heavily influenced by the South East Trade winds which keep the temperature mild and can lead to very changeable weather. The coastal areas are generally hotter and drier than the interior, with temperatures in the coastal capital of Jamestown ranging between 14-32ºC, and the central hill area around 4-6 degrees cooler.
There are no drastic weather patterns and therefore no distinctive seasons in St Helena. Rainfall is variable across the island, with the interior receiving considerably more rainfall than the coast. The ideal season is November through to March when the days are mostly sunny. April to October is generally wetter and cooler.
Sao Tome: São Tomé and Príncipe can be visited all year round. November-February offers blue skies and high contrasts. Given the close proximity to the equator, the climate in São Tomé and Príncipe is tropical, but the dramatic topography creates a range of microclimates. While the prevailing winds are moist southwesterlies, they are intercepted by the central mountains and annual rainfall is therefore approximately 5,000mm per annum to the southwest and less than 760mm in the northeast. The average temperature in coastal areas is quite high, with an average of approximately 27 °C but occasionally reaching 32 °C or even slightly higher, and humidity sits in at around 80%. Temperatures decline sharply at higher altitudes.
Angola: One can travel to Angola all year round as the amount of rain is not extreme and will not affect ones travels. Angola’s climate is heavily influenced by three local peculiarities; the cool Benguela current that runs to the southern part of the coast, the rugged mountains in the interior and the presence of the Namib Desert in the south west. All three play an enormous part in creating distinct Angola Climate of a wet, tropical northern jungle, a dryer and cooler central plateau, and an arid southern belt influenced by its proximity to the Kalahari Desert. November is a transitional season as parts of the country shift from the dry season to the rainy season. Dust is less of an issue at this time of year, and the landscapes are lush and beautiful… though one must be prepared for occasional rain.
Transport and Travel Conditions
This is a tour for the hardy!
The itinerary has been designed to be as comfortable as possible, but many areas visited are still largely undeveloped. Many road journeys in Angola are long and rough and sometimes dusty... or muddy!
The principal mode of transport throughout Angola will be in 4x4 vehicles, and in Saint Helena and Sao Tome we will mostly rely upon small or mid-size buses (or small vans).
In general, this is a tour with a lot of variables at play. Things can "go wrong" -- flight schedules change, roads wash out, tires go flat, hot water simply stops (or never starts), air-conditioning is weak, and road journeys can take longer than anyone expects. One must be open-minded, patient, and focused on the task at hand: enjoying the region's myriad cultures, sights, and sounds, and its friendly hospitable peoples.
The itinerary includes time spent in remote destinations and a fair bit of moving around, and some full days of travel and touring, with some challenges to your comfort and health -- bad roads, heat, early starts, remote locations. If you have a weak constitution, compromised immunity, or any pre-existing medical conditions that could call for readily accessible, modern medical care, you should very carefully consider your suitability.
A word about TOUR STATUS: While we appreciate that everyone wants to know when their chosen date for this tour will be 'guaranteed,' this tour is a special case in that our reaching minimum numbers is only one small part of the process. We may have to hold off on confirming the final dates and itinerary until we have confirmed ALL arrangements at destination. Flight schedule changes may affect overall dates and tour start/end points. We will only confirm this tour once such details are finalized.
None of the countries visited on this tour require a visa. Upon reservation, we provide details for entry to all.
A YELLOW FEVER VACCINATION CERTIFICATE IS REQUIRED FOR THIS TOUR
Am I suitable for this tour? Please refer to our self-assessment form.
Activity Level: 2
These are particularly busy tours that feature a lot of moving around, sometimes by train and short journeys on local transport. Walking tours of towns and cities are leisurely but you should be prepared to be on your feet for several hours. Some of our cultural trips that occur at high altitude and/or require greater independence with baggage handling (at hotels, airports, train stations) also fall into this category.
To learn more about the Activity levels, please visit our tour styles page.
Accommodation
In Saint Helena, Sao Tome and Luanda (Angola) our accommodation will be of an international 4-star standard. Outside of Luanda in Angola our hotels tend to be more of a 3-star standard: simpler properties where AC may or may not be functioning properly and a fan will then be used. All hotels have en-suite toilets & showers. Though more and more rare these days, you must be prepared for power and/or water failure in some more remote locales. In Virei (Angola) we spend 1 night in a remote location in order to best access the tribal communities. Here our overnight is best described as 'clean, comfortable but basic' - a no-frills experience that requires a true sense of adventure.
Hotel porterage is generally available (see inclusions) though you must still be independent with your luggage. Single rooms are limited in number and will likely be smaller than twins.
Please click on 'Map & Hotels' link for full information.
Staff and Support
Tour Leader throughout, local guides, drivers.
This 2025 departure will be led by senior Tour Leader, Martin Charlton.
Group Size
Maximum 14 plus Tour Leader
Regions visited: Southern Africa; Africa and Middle East and West Africa
Countries visited: South Africa; Saint Helena; Angola and São Tomé and Príncipe, Democratic Republic of
*The red tour trail on the map does not represent the actual travel path.
The following is a list of sample hotels at some locations included on this tour. The hotels shown here are meant to provide a general sense of the standard of hotel we usually aim for; they are not necessarily confirmed for your chosen departure.
