Things To Do
in Guadalupe
Guadalupe is a small fishing village located on the northwest coast of Sao Tome and Principe. It is known for its beautiful sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters. The village is surrounded by lush green forests and offers a peaceful atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.
Guadalupe is a great destination for those seeking a quiet retreat and a chance to explore the natural beauty of Sao Tome and Principe.
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Desculpe" - Sorry
- "Como estás?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with breakfast at a local café, trying some fresh tropical fruits. Explore the local market to soak in the culture and pick up souvenirs.
Head to the stunning Grand Anse beach for some relaxation and sunbathing. Take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters and enjoy a beachside lunch.
Enjoy a dinner featuring freshly caught seafood at a seaside restaurant. Stroll along the beach as the sun sets, immersing yourself in the natural beauty.
Visit Parc National de la Guadeloupe for breathtaking hiking trails and lush greenery. Bring a picnic to enjoy amidst nature after your morning trek.
Explore the waterfalls within the park, taking plenty of photos. Enjoy some more hiking or relax by the waterfall swimming hole.
Head back to your accommodation, freshen up and have dinner at a local bistro. Try the traditional Creole dishes for a true taste of the island.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with lush landscapes and diverse ecosystems.
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant local traditions.
- Friendly and welcoming locals.
- Opportunities for eco-tourism and outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching.
- Low levels of mass tourism, providing a more authentic experience.
- Limited infrastructure and accessibility can make travel challenging.
- Basic healthcare facilities may not be sufficient for serious medical issues.
- Higher cost of imported goods can lead to expensive living conditions.
- Limited job opportunities for expatriates and locals.
- Isolation from other major destinations can make travel less convenient.
Best Activities in Guadalupe
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the lush landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and breathtaking viewpoints in Obo National Park, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
Enjoy the serene beauty of Praia das Conchas, known for its stunning coastline and ideal spot for sunbathing and picnicking.
Join guided tours to observe the unique bird species native to Sao Tome and Principe, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
Discover vibrant marine life and coral reefs while snorkeling in the clear waters of Lagoa Azul.
Experience local culture by visiting traditional villages, interacting with residents, and learning about their way of life.
Catch some waves at Praia Jale, which offers suitable conditions for both beginners and experienced surfers.
Take a guided tour of cocoa plantations to learn about the cultivation process and the history of chocolate production in the region.
Tours
Uncover the best of Guadalupe with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Guadalupe
Visit one of these nice places.
This iconic volcanic plug offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding lush landscapes and is a popular spot for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
A small islet located at the southernmost point of São Tomé, it provides a picturesque setting with crystal-clear waters and beautiful beaches, ideal for capturing tropical beauty.
The capital city boasts vibrant colonial architecture, bustling markets, and beautiful coastal views, presenting numerous opportunities for street photography and capturing local culture.
A scenic viewpoint that overlooks the lush green valleys and the coast, offering a perfect backdrop for landscape photography.
This historic cocoa plantation features stunning colonial-era buildings set against a backdrop of verdant hills and can make for an interesting photographic subject.
Known for its picturesque beach and clear waters, Praia Jalé is perfect for sunset photography and capturing the beauty of São Tomé's coastline.
The national park is filled with rich biodiversity, waterfalls, and hiking trails, providing endless opportunities for nature photography and capturing the essence of São Tomé's natural beauty.
Food in Guadalupe
Guadalupe Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional fish stew with vegetables and palm oil, often served with funge, a typical side dish made from cassava. You can savor this dish at local restaurants and beachside eateries like Restaurante Da Lena.
Must-Try!
A hearty soup made with a combination of fish, meat, and vegetables. Visit the lively markets in Guadalupe or the street food stalls to indulge in this flavorsome dish.
A succulent dish made from fish belly cooked in a delectable sauce, usually paired with rice. Head to Tia Maria's Kitchen, known for its authentic Barriga de Peixe.
For a sweet treat, try Arroz Doce, a creamy rice pudding sprinkled with cinnamon. You can find this delectable dessert at local cafes and bakeries such as Pastelaria Tutti Frutti.
Indulge in this simple yet scrumptious dish of fried bananas, often sold by street vendors or at local food markets.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Guadalupe better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore Mercado de Guadalupe, a vibrant market where you can sample an array of fresh produce, spices, and local snacks like pastels and bolos levedos.
Take a stroll along Rua da Praia to discover an assortment of enticing street food options. You'll find vendors selling delectable seafood, grilled meats, and tropical fruits.
Venture to the lively Feira de Sao Tome, where you can immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere and savor an assortment of authentic street food delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When greeting someone in São Tomé and Príncipe, it's customary to use a firm handshake along with a smile. It's polite to ask about someone's health or family, as personal connections are highly valued. Avoid direct criticism or confrontation, as maintaining harmony is important in social interactions.
In São Tomé and Príncipe, elders are respected and often hold significant authority within families and communities. When interacting with older individuals, it's important to use formal greetings and show deference, listening attentively to their advice and experiences.
Dressing modestly is important, particularly in rural areas and during visits to religious sites. While casual wear is common in urban settings, it is advisable to avoid overly revealing clothing. Wearing traditional attire during local festivals or events is considered a sign of respect and appreciation for the culture.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Guadalupe with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Guadalupe
Ensure a smooth experience
In São Tomé and Príncipe, tipping is not obligatory but is appreciated in the service industry. It is common to round up the bill or leave small change in restaurants and cafes. A tip of around 10% is considered generous when service has been good.
Payments in São Tomé and Príncipe can be made in the local currency, the dobra (STN). Credit and debit cards are accepted in some places, particularly in larger hotels and restaurants, but cash is preferred in smaller establishments and for street vendors. Visitors should be aware that there may be limited access to ATMs in more rural areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Guadalupe.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is considered the best time to visit Guadalupe, São Tomé, and Príncipe. Travelers can expect sunny weather, lower humidity, and less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, beach outings, and exploring the natural beauty of the islands.
The rainy season is characterized by higher humidity and frequent showers, particularly between October and December. While the landscape is lush and green, some areas may be less accessible due to muddy conditions. However, this season is also less crowded, offering a more tranquil experience and opportunities to see vibrant wildlife.
This period often sees a mix of wet and dry weather, with occasional rain showers. Visitors can enjoy the beauty of blooming flora, and the temperatures are generally warm. It’s a good time for ecotourism and enjoying the diverse ecosystems of the islands.
Guadalupe at Night
Hiking in Guadalupe
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast national park offering various hiking trails that showcase the rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes of São Tomé and Príncipe, including lush forests and volcanic formations.
A challenging hike leading to one of the highest peaks on São Tomé, providing breathtaking views of the island and the ocean from the summit.
A scenic hike on Bom Bom Island that allows hikers to explore the beautiful coastline, sandy beaches, and lush tropical flora.
A picturesque trail along a river that takes you through tranquil forests, offering opportunities to see local wildlife and unique plant species.
An historical hiking route passing through old plantations leading to the coastal views, where hikers can learn about the island's history and agricultural practices.
Aiports
How to reach Guadalupe by plane.
The main international airport serving São Tomé and Príncipe, located on the island of São Tomé, approximately 5 km from the capital city São Tomé.
An airport located on the island of Príncipe, approximately 12 km from the capital city Santo António, serving domestic flights and limited international services.
Located in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea, this airport serves as a major international gateway in the region, approximately 200 km from São Tomé.
Located in Lubango, Angola, this airport serves both domestic and some international flights, approximately 800 km from São Tomé.
The main international gateway to Ghana, located in Accra, which is approximately 1,100 km from São Tomé.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Guadalupe are of African descent, primarily descended from enslaved Africans brought to work on plantations.
This group consists of individuals with mixed heritage, including African and Portuguese ancestry.
A smaller segment of the population may identify as Portuguese, often due to historical colonial ties.
Includes individuals from various other backgrounds, though they represent a minor portion of the overall demographics.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in São Tomé and Príncipe, with a passionate following and numerous local clubs and leagues.
Basketball is gaining popularity, especially among the youth, with various local tournaments and community engagement.
Volleyball is played recreationally and at competitive levels, with both beach and indoor volleyball being popular.
Handball has a presence in schools and local organizations, promoting team spirit and community involvement.
Athletics, including running and field events, is promoted through schools and sports events, contributing to the sports culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Guadalupe.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat and fish are prevalent in local cuisine, some restaurants and cafes in Guadalupe offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as flavorful vegetable stews and fresh fruit platters.
Those with gluten restrictions can opt for rice-based dishes, fresh seafood, and tropical fruits, widely available at local eateries and markets.
It's advisable to communicate your dietary requirements clearly when dining out, as some establishments may be able to accommodate specific needs with advance notice.