São Tomé and Príncipe Birding Tours

Tailor-made info São Tomé and Príncipe

At Sustainable Birding, we do not offer ready-made, off-the-shelf birding tours. Our approach is deeply personalised—we meticulously craft each of our tours in São Tomé and Príncipe from scratch, ensuring every detail aligns with your unique preferences. Whether exploring the captivating terrain of São Tomé’s rainforests or Príncipe’s coastal finery, our team of seasoned birding experts use our comprehensive knowledge to tailor your birding holiday, guaranteeing an experience perfectly attuned to your specific requirements.

All our birding tours in São Tomé and Príncipe are expertly guided by our passionate, knowledgeable, and experienced São Tomé and Príncipe leaders. They are some of the best guides on the planet! So, give us a call or drop us an email and let’s talk São Tomé and Príncipe!

Reasons to go on a Tailor-made Birding Tour

• Select the exact dates that suit your schedule.
• Choose the ideal time of year for your birding adventure.
• Travel alongside your preferred companions—be it family, friends, or fellow birders.
• Set your pace—whether fast or brisk.
• Customise within your personal budget, from luxurious to budget accommodations or a mix.
• Craft a tour that matches your specific interests—whether intense birding, leisurely exploration, photography, culture, music, wine, botany, butterflies, herpetology, geology, diving, hiking, and beyond.
• Our team is here to cater to your interests and ensure a fulfilling birding holiday.

Scheduled Group Tanzania Birding Tours

Explore our selection of Scheduled Group Birding Tours in São Tomé & Príncipe. These groups tours have been designed to fit different birding preference and time restraints. Typically, our group tours are more affordable, and allow people to meet up and make lifelong memories with fellow birders. All our group tours are small and come with an expert Tour Leader, having groups no bigger than 6 individuals, so you still get that intimate feeling and the full attention of the Tour Leader.

Please refer to our Birding Calendar for tour schedules, dates, and fixed prices.

Best time of year to visit:

The optimal time for birding in São Tomé and Príncipe spans June to August and December to January, coinciding with the two drier seasons. While the endemics can be spotted throughout the year, accessing the southwestern forests in São Tomé might pose challenges during the rainy season. Therefore, to maximise birding opportunities and ease of exploration, aiming for these drier periods is advisable.

São Tomé and Príncipe experience a tropical climate characterised by high humidity and consistent temperatures year-round. The islands enjoy a warm and humid atmosphere, with temperatures typically hovering between 23 to 32 degrees Celsius (73 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit). The weather remains stable throughout the year due to its proximity to the equator, offering a constant tropical vibe. However, the islands have distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season spans from October to May, with peak rainfall occurring between March and May. During this time, heavy rains and occasional thunderstorms are common, particularly in the mountainous regions. Conversely, the dry season prevails from June to September, providing drier and more comfortable conditions for outdoor activities and exploration.

The trade winds significantly influence São Tomé and Príncipe’s climate, contributing to the islands’ temperate conditions. These winds mitigate extreme heat, fostering a pleasant coastal atmosphere. Coastal regions often experience slightly lower temperatures compared to the inland areas, offering a refreshing escape from the tropical warmth. Overall, while the islands maintain a consistent temperature range, visitors should consider the wet and dry seasons when planning their travels to ensure an enjoyable and comfortable experience.

Given the tropical climate, packing appropriate attire is essential. Go for lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing suitable for warm and humid conditions. Long-sleeved shirts and pants offer protection from the sun and potential insect bites during outdoor excursions. Do not forget to pack comfortable hiking or walking shoes for traversing diverse terrain. Essential items to protect you from the tropical sun such as sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat is also recommended.

Mosquito repellent is crucial to ward off insect bites, and taking anti-malarial tablets is highly recommended.

Equipment such as high-quality binoculars tailored for birdwatching is essential and if you have a good working camera and lens, then please bring it with you!