Guided Experiences
Tours in São Toméand Príncipe
Small-group and private tours led by local guides. Rainforest treks, plantation history, coastal boat trips, and city walks, all designed around the islands as they actually are.
How It Works
Small groups. Local guides. No fixed scripts.
Every tour on this site is led by a local guide with real knowledge of the island. Not a rehearsed commentary, but an actual person who knows what is worth seeing, what is not worth the journey, and what the island looks like after a week of rain.
Groups are kept small. Most tours run with between two and twelve people. Private bookings are available on every tour — message us and we will sort it.
Itineraries are not completely rigid. If the tide is wrong, the road is flooded, or something better comes up on the day, guides will adjust. The goal is a good experience, not a checked list.
Licensed, English-speaking guides with first-hand knowledge of every route.
Tours run with 2 to 12 people. Private departures available on all tours.
Guides adapt to conditions on the day. The island changes — plans should too.
Prices are shown upfront. No booking fees. No surprises at collection.
São Tomé Walking Tour
Guided city walk led by local English-speaking university students
Half Day Micolo Tour
Coastal village life, seafood lunch, and a quiet beach at Praia dos Governadores
Milagrosa Waterfall Trek
A guided 5-hour inland hike to one of São Tomé's most striking waterfalls
Central São Tomé Tour
Coffee plantations, waterfalls and highland culture on a full-day tour into the interior
Northern São Tomé Tour
Cocoa history, fishing towns, Lagoa Azul and the Santa Catarina Tunnel in one full day
Southern São Tomé Tour
Plantation heritage, Boca do Inferno, Pico Cão Grande, and the island's south coast
Lagoa Amélia Trek
A highland walk through crater forest, endemic plants and São Tomé's giant begonias
Dolphin and Snorkelling Boat Tour
A full-day boat trip with dolphin watching, Blue Lagoon snorkelling and Cabras Island
Vale do Rio Waterfall Hike
Discover one of São Tomé's hidden natural treasures
Pico Cão Grande Hike
One of the most iconic treks in São Tomé: primary rainforest, volcanic scenery and a landmark like no other
Rolas Island Boat Trips
Pre-arranged boat transfers from Porto Alegre to the Equator island
Lunch Tour to São João dos Angolares
São Tomé's east coast, built around a long lunch at Roça São João dos Angolares
São Tomé Shore Excursion for Cruise Passengers
Private 6-hour shore excursion with port pickup and a full tender refund guarantee
São Tomé Northern Coast & Santola Crab Lunch Shore Excursion
Private 5-hour Neves shore excursion with a Santola crab lunch and a full tender refund guarantee
São Tomé Coffee Plantation Shore Excursion – Monte Café
Private 5-hour Monte Café coffee plantation shore excursion with a full tender refund guarantee
Behind the Tours
We live on the island. We know it as it actually is.
The Chocolate Islands is run by Jack Fitzgerald, based on São Tomé since 2018. The tours grew directly from years of exploring the island on foot, by 4x4 and by boat, and from working alongside local guides who have lived here their whole lives.
All guides are licensed, English-speaking, and chosen because they are genuinely good at what they do. The city walking tour is led by university students studying at USTP. The treks and full-day tours are led by certified local guides who know the terrain, the fauna, and the farmers along the route.
We book directly, handle questions personally, and are available by WhatsApp throughout your trip. If a route changes because of rain, we tell you immediately and suggest the best alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I book a private tour?
Yes. Every tour can be booked as a private experience. Message us on WhatsApp or by email with your dates and group size.
What languages are tours led in?
All tours are led in English. Portuguese-speaking guides are available on request.
What fitness level do I need?
The city walk and cultural tours need no specific fitness. The waterfall treks involve several hours on uneven ground. The Pico Cão Grande Hike and Vale do Rio require good fitness and proper footwear.
What is included in the price?
All tours include a licensed local guide, insurance, and site entry fees. Full-day tours include 4x4 transport. Some tours include a picnic or lunch — see each tour page for specifics.
Can I book as a cruise passenger?
Yes. The Half Day Micolo Tour has two departures timed for cruise schedules. Contact us in advance with your docking time and we will advise the best option.
How do I book?
WhatsApp us on +239 9862552 or email hello@thechocolateislands.com. Tell us the tour, your dates, and group size. We confirm availability and handle everything from there.
Not sure which tour is right?
Ask us. We know the islands.
Send a message and we will help you find the right tour for your schedule, fitness level, and interests.
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