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      Immersive tree-to-table cacao plantation tour in São Tomé

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      Cacao beans in Sao Tome
      Cacao beans in Sao Tome
      © Love Wild Africa/Scott Ramsey
      Experiences

      Immersive tree-to-table cacao plantation tour in São Tomé

      Experiences ⟶

      Immersive tree-to-table cacao plantation tour in São Tomé

      Journey to the north of São Tomé and learn more about the wealth of the ‘Chocolate Capital of the World' during a tree-to-table cacao plantation tour. 

      Experience a rare slice of untouched island life in São Tomé and Príncipe, where a tropical archipelago of natural wonder awaits. If you’re looking for a remote paradise miles off the beaten tourist track, these idyllic islands off the West Coast of Africa have to be seen to be believed. A former Portuguese colony, the islands were once reliant on agriculture and acted as a hub for the production of sugar, coffee and cocoa. Here our tree-to-table cacao plantation tour provides an immersive experience in which you can learn about why cacao is so significant to the history of the island, whilst showing you a true taste of São Tomé island life.

      Highlights of a São Tomé cacao plantation tour

      Aerial view of Beach in Sao Tome

      Stroll along the endless white sand beaches.

      Women sorting cacao beans in Sao Tome

      Learn from local experts about the cacao production cycle.

      Drying cacao in Sao Tome

      Visit the dryers to find out about the cacao transformation process.

      Cacao plantation tour in Sao Tome

      Visit one of the last working plantations in São Tomé.

      Cacao beans in Sao Tome

      Sample some mouth-watering cacao-based treats.

      "Learn from local experts about the cacao production cycle, and visit the dryers to find out about the cacao transformation process."

      After beginning the day at your leisure, swimming in the glittering turquoise ocean or taking a stroll along the endless white sandy beaches observing wildlife, you’ll have the opportunity to take a tour of the island’s cacao plantations to learn how the Cacaueiro tree is planted, cultivated and grown.

      Hear about the fascinating history of São Tomé, the ‘Chocolate Capital of the World,’ and visit the picturesque area of Fernão Dias en route to the formerly grand Agostinho Neto plantation to visit the botanical gardens. Learn from local experts about the cacao production cycle, and visit the dryers to find out about the cacao transformation process. Pass by notable plantations and admire the impressive colonial architecture before stopping by the historic site where the Portuguese landed back in 1471. 

      Podding cacao in Sao Tome

      Discover the fascinating story of the island’s chocolate production. (Photos: ©HBD Principe)

      Wrapping up this tour, you’ll visit one of the last working plantations in São Tomé that to this day employs many islanders, and have the opportunity to sample some mouth-watering cacao-based treats. This experience offers a glimpse into the fascinating story of the island’s chocolate production and is one of many experiences you can take whilst exploring the little-known tiny islands that offer an exquisite blend of tropical beauty and fascinating Portuguese-Creole culture. 

      Ready to take the road less travelled?

      Contact our Africa team to plan your unforgettable Sao Tome & Principe journey.
      Enquire

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