São Tomé South Tour: Beaches, Waterfalls & Pico Cão Grande

Summary

Discover São Tomé’s wild south coast with local stories and flavors

You’ll travel São Tomé’s south coast with a local guide—hearing stories in Santana, tasting fried bananas by fishing boats, swimming off black sand beaches, and standing beneath Pico Cão Grande after lunch in a village restaurant. Expect real moments: laughter over language slips, sea spray on your skin, and time to just look around.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the sound of waves slapping against the fishing boats at Messias Alves beach—sharp, salty air and the low chatter of fishermen mending nets. Our guide, Filipe, waved us over to see the islet of Santana in the distance. He pointed out some old wooden houses in Santana city—paint peeling but still bright blue and yellow. I tried to snap a photo but got distracted by a woman selling fried bananas from a basket. Couldn’t resist one (still warm, sweet with a hint of oil).

We stopped at Roça Água Izé next, where Filipe told us about cocoa plantations and colonial history. The old hospital building looked almost haunted—windows empty, vines curling up the stone. There’s something about standing there that makes you think about all the people who’ve passed through. Boca de Inferno was just down the road—a rocky spot where waves crash so hard it sounds like thunder under your feet. Didn’t expect to feel that spray on my face from so far back.

Praia das Sete Ondas was our quick photo stop—black sand gritty between my toes for a second before we moved on. Later, we swam at another beach (can’t remember the name now) where the water was warm enough that you barely noticed getting in. Lunch was at São João dos Angolares; I tried calulu for the first time and probably butchered my order in Portuguese—Filipe just laughed and helped me out.

I still think about seeing Pico Cão Grande rising out of nowhere—like some giant finger pointing straight up into clouds. After Mioba waterfall (cold mist on my face), we stood there looking up at that peak, twice as tall as the Eiffel Tower they say. It felt quiet for a minute even though there were birds everywhere—just us and this wild green place.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore South São Tomé Highlights

• Pass through Santana city and fishing community
• Visit Roça Água Izé plantation and Boca de Inferno
• Photo stop at black sand beach
• Swim at a top beach in São Tomé
• Learn about São Tomé's first peoples and lunch option
• Visit Mioba waterfall and Pico Cão Grande peak

Top questions

How long does the São Tomé south tour take?

The tour is a full-day experience covering several stops along southern São Tomé.

Is lunch included on this day trip?

You can choose to have lunch at São João dos Angolares or Mionga restaurant during the tour.

What are the main attractions visited?

Main stops include Santana city, Messias Alves beach, Roça Água Izé plantation, Boca de Inferno, Praia das Sete Ondas, Mioba waterfall, and Pico Cão Grande.

Is hotel pickup provided for this private tour?

Yes, transport by private vehicle with pickup is included.

Are guides multilingual?

The tour may be operated by a multi-lingual guide.

Is this suitable for travelers with limited mobility?

This tour is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

What’s special about Praia das Sete Ondas?

This beach features unique black sands and is known for its scenery; it’s a quick photo stop on the route.

What’s included

Your day includes private transport with pickup by a professional local guide who shares stories along each stop. Fuel costs are covered throughout your journey across southern São Tomé. You’ll have time for swimming breaks and can enjoy lunch at either São João dos Angolares or Mionga restaurant before heading back.