Sao Tome and Principe

Commonly seen resting in the volcanic caverns and under basaltic ledges.

Nurse Shark

A variety of colorful sea slugs unique to the Gulf of Guinea islands.

Endemic Nudibranchs

The deep waters surrounding the islands are famous for these impressive pelagics.

Atlantic Blue Marlin

Frequently seen on the reefs and nesting on the islands' remote beaches.

Green Turtle

Rising from the Gulf of Guinea, the twin-island nation of Sao Tome and Principe is a lush, volcanic paradise offering pristine reefs, dramatic basaltic formations, and a rich biodiversity that remains largely unexplored by the diving community. The underwater world here is characterized by dramatic volcanic topography, including massive submerged boulders, deep canyons, and vertical walls that drop into the deep Atlantic. Because the islands have seen very little commercial pressure, the reefs are in excellent condition, home to a mix of tropical West African marine life and passing pelagics. Divers can explore sites ranging from sheltered bays perfect for macro photography to high-energy points where schools of snapper, barracuda, and jacks congregate. The islands' isolation has led to a high degree of endemism, making it a hotspot for both marine and terrestrial biodiversity. Whether you are diving the remote peaks of Principe or the volcanic ridges of Sao Tome, this destination offers a sense of discovery and adventure that is increasingly rare in the modern diving world.

There are currently no regular liveaboard operations based in the islands; diving is resort-based with day boat departures.

Pestana São Tomé

Bom Bom Island Resort

Omali Lodge

Príncipe Island is the smaller, older, and more pristine of the two main islands in São Tomé and Príncipe, designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve for its extr...

Príncipe Island

The north coast of São Tomé Island offers nine outstanding dive sites showcasing the pristine volcanic reefs and dramatic basaltic formations that make this Gul...

São Tomé North Coast

The south and east coast of São Tomé Island offers five distinctive dive sites that showcase the island's dramatic coastal diversity, from mangrove-fringed bays...

São Tomé South & East Coast

Ana Chaves

Baía das Agulhas (Príncipe)

Baia das Agulhas

Boca do Inferno

Bom Bom Islet

Cão Grande Peak

Ilhéu das Cabras

Ilhéu das Rolas

Jalé

Jockey's Cap

Lagoa Azul

Ossago Reef

Pedra da Galé (Príncipe)

Pedra da Galé

Porto Alegre

Praia Banana

Praia dos Tamarindos

Praia Inhame

Santiago Wreck

Santo António Bay

Sete Pedras

Tinhosa Grande & Tinhosa Pequena

Tinhosa Wall

Travel between Sao Tome and Principe is via domestic flights (STP Airways). On the islands, taxis and 'yellow' shared taxis are common. Rental cars (4x4) are the best way to explore remote areas.

Liveaboard Diving in Sao Tome and Principe

Experience Overview

Featured Operators

Remote Reach

Booking Advice

Where to Stay in Sao Tome and Principe