Holidaymakers are spoiled for choice when it comes to beautiful islands off the continent of Africa.
Mauritius, Seychelles, and Zanzibar are a few of the most popular destinations where tourists can enjoy hot weather and clear blue waters.
However, one island nation off Africa’s west coast has been largely ignored by tourists despite offering all of these things.
Sao Tome and Principe is a two-island country close to the equator and part of a volcano chain.
Despite its stunning beaches, huge jungles, and beautiful weather, Sao Tome and Principe does not attract many tourists.
Only 15,000 people visit the islands each year, making Sao Tome and Principe one of the least well-known places on Earth.
Speaking to the Telegraph in 2017, one tour operator said of Sao Tome and Principe: “It’s not forgotten. It’s never been discovered.”
While many African countries suffer from instability, Sao Tome and Principe is one of the continent’s most peaceful and democratic nations.
Sao Tome tour guide Luis Miguel told CNN in 2020 that the island is “heaven on Earth.”
Meanwhile, Lonely Planet said the country is “as idyllic as the Seychelles”, and others have branded Sao Tome and Principe the “Galapagos of Africa.”
The island’s jungles have been listed as a UNESCO biosphere, known for their strange fruits and unique wildlife.
The remote nature of the islands means that its clear-water beaches are very peaceful and almost completely undisturbed.
But, despite the lack of tourism, several activities are still on offer there.
Among them are hiking, diving, snorkelling, trekking, and the iconic Pico Cao Grande – a volcanic rock that is 1,213 feet tall.
