Sea Turtle Observation in São Tomé and Príncipe
A Complete Guide
Why São Tomé is a Unique Destination for Sea Turtle Watching ?
Located in the Gulf of Guinea, São Tomé and Príncipe lie on the natural migration routes of sea turtles. This unique position allows the islands to benefit from a high visitation rate from five different sea turtle species.
Out of the seven sea turtle species recorded worldwide, five are migratory and travel across continents such as Africa and South America, while two are endemic species and remain in specific regions (the Gulf of Mexico and Australia).
The five migratory species all visit São Tomé: four of them mate and nest on the beaches, while one species only passes by during its migration route. These are: the Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas), the Olive Ridley Turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea), the Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata), the Leatherback Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea), and the Loggerhead Turtle (Caretta caretta).
The islands of São Tomé and Príncipe provide optimal nesting beaches and rich foraging areas, making them a vital sanctuary for threatened marine turtles.
When is the Best Time to See Sea Turtles in São Tomé?
The sea turtle season runs from October to April. Within this seven-month period, the best time for turtle observation is between November and February, when nesting and hatching activity peak.
Where to Observe Sea Turtles ?
Our agency works closely with the sea turtle NGO Programa Tatô to provide responsible tours in the northern region of São Tomé, just 25 minutes from the capital.
Visitors can join activities at three incubation centers—Morro Peixe, Fernão Dias, and Micoló:
- Hatchling releases (5–6 pm): a family-friendly activity where baby turtles are released to the ocean.
- Night patrols (8 pm–midnight): guided walks to observe nesting turtles.
- Complete observation package: includes both activities plus a traditional fisherman’s dinner at Mrs. Nina’s home.
Types of Sea Turtles Found in São Tomé
Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas)
The Green Turtle is the most common species in São Tomé and Príncipe. These large herbivores grow up to 1.5 m and 180 kg, feeding mainly on seagrass and algae. They can live up to 80 years and are regularly seen along the coasts.
Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata)
The Hawksbill Turtle is the most threatened turtle species in São Tomé and Príncipe. It is known for its beautiful overlapping shell scales, reaches 1 m in length, weighs about 80 kg, and lives up to 50 years. It feeds mostly on sponges and small invertebrates.
Olive Ridley Turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea)
The Olive Ridley is a smaller turtle, about 70 cm long and 40 kg in weight, with a lifespan of 50 years. Its nesting peaks in November and December, with 90% of nests located in the northern coast, near Micoló, Fernão Dias, and Morro Peixe.
Leatherback Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea)
The Leatherback Turtle is the largest, reaching 2 m and over 500 kg. Feeding mainly on jellyfish, it nests in São Tomé from September to March, with a peak in December. Its average lifespan is 45 years.
Loggerhead Turtle (Caretta caretta)
The Loggerhead Turtle does not nest in São Tomé but is frequently observed offshore, often by fishermen. It can grow up to 1.2 m and 180 kg, living up to 70 years. Its diet includes crabs, mollusks, and other hard-shelled prey.
How to Observe Turtles Responsibly ?
During all activities, we follow the eco-tourism guidelines of our partner NGO, which oversees conservation efforts.
- Our trained local guides receive yearly updates from Programa Tatô.
- A portion of every tour fee goes directly to support conservation and community projects.
- Visitors are guided to minimize disturbance while enjoying a respectful, educational experience.
Conservation Efforts and Local Projects
Conservation of sea turtles in São Tomé began in the 1990s, supported by USAID. Today, protection programs are led by Fundação Príncipe in Príncipe and Programa Tatô in São Tomé.
Through awareness campaigns on radio, TV, and schools, local communities have shifted from consuming turtles to actively protecting them.
The Challenge of Changing Habits
For centuries, turtles were an important food source. It took two decades of education and community involvement to achieve change. Today:
- Poaching has drastically reduced.
- Women who once sold turtle meat now craft local handicrafts.
- Many former poachers are now eco-guards.
Why Protect the Sea Turtles?
Sea turtles are a keystone species in marine ecosystems. Their decline would threaten ocean balance.
For example, a single Leatherback Turtle consumes up to 300 kg of jellyfish per day. Without them, jellyfish populations would explode, reducing fish stocks and destabilizing the marine food chain.
How to Join a Sea Turtle Tour in São Tomé
We run tours from October to March/April.
- Book online or via WhatsApp.
- Hatchling releases are confirmed 24–48 hours in advance.
- Night patrols require no pre-booking and are always accompanied by an eco-guard or biologist.
- Tours can be combined with other excursions: North Road, Historical, or Roça Road.
Our mission: to increase awareness while ensuring minimal disturbance to turtles
Practical Travel Tips for Visitors
- Bring mosquito repellent.
- Wear comfortable shoes for night patrols.
- Choose dark clothing and long sleeves.
- Use a red light lamp or app (never white light).
- No flash photography is allowed.