When to go?…. It’s the perennial question we get asked, and for those of us who inhabit the northern hemisphere the questioner is often driven by concern over climate. Will it be sunny? Will it be dry? Then there are the wildlife issues. When is the best time to see babes turtles, trekking the Park or hiking Pico de Sao Tome? When is birding at its best? 

:: Location

South-west part of the volcanic island of Sao Tomé and Principe (see our park's map).

:: Climate

The island contains an extraordinary variety of landscapes from 0 to 2.000 meters above sea level and has a high annual rainfall (varying from 700 in the north, to 7.000 mm in the south) Temperature: ±26°C on the coast, but much cooler at altitude (sometimes 15°C). Humidity relatively high (> 80%).

:: Clothing

Dress is casual throughout. Light, easily washable clothes are advised. A light, easily packable waterproof jacket is advised for possible rain showers; long pants and long-sleeved tops and shirts are advised to block the sun and to keep bugs off when walking in the forest. Light hiking shoes/boots should be adequate, and there should be opportunities to use swimwear.

:: Language

Official language: Portuguese, but English and French is often understood and spoken

:: Best Time To Visit

Depending on what you’d like to do here are different times that are best for visiting the Park's. December and January are wonderful for birding as birds adopt bright breeding plumage. Trekking is best in the long dry season, between June and September. From mid-November to early February turtles nest on the beaches, and you can watch the eggs hatching 45 days later.

:: Equipment

You should pack a pair of binoculars that are in good repair, along with a belt pack or day pack (for carrying books, sunscreen, extra film, etc.). Please make sure to bring adequate supplies of film, spare camera batteries, etc., as these items may be difficult to obtain locally. 

:: Travel and Tourism

More information with details about travel to Sao Tome Island and around the country, where to stay and what to see can be found in the São Tome and Principe Travel and Tourism Information Guide, in the Sao Tome and Principe: Bradt Travel Guide or contacting the local tourist agency's.