The beautiful island in Africa that is 'heaven on earth' but there's hardly any tourists

While tour guide Luís Miguel described the island as 'heaven on Earth' in an interview with CNN in 2020, São Tomé and Príncipe remains one of the world's best-kept travel secrets, welcoming only around 15,000 visitors a year. Often also referred to as the ' Galápagos' due to its remarkable number of endemic species, this island nation offers unspoiled wild , lush rainforests, and vibrant local cuisine, all without the crowds found in more popular destinations like the Seychelles, Bali, or the Maldives.

São Tomé and Príncipe boasts breathtaking landscapes, with unspoiled nature, soft white-sand beaches, and crystal-clear waters without the crowds. Another major advantage is its affordability where you can enjoy a meal at an inexpensive local restaurant for around £14.70, a beer for just £1.20, and a Coca-Cola for about £1.40, according to .

Located near the equator and formed from volcanic origins, the country consists of two main islands that are home to dense jungles, striking beaches, and consistently warm tropical weather.

The capital, São Tomé city, is a mix of colonial charm and local vibrancy, while beyond it lie eco-friendly lodges, cocoa plantations, and wild coastlines.

Popular activities include hiking through Obo National Park, snorkeling in crystal-clear bays, and visiting Pico Cão Grande, a dramatic volcanic tower rising over 1,200 feet from the forest.

São Tomé and Príncipe offers incredible natural and cultural experiences, from swimming in hidden waterfalls and watching humpback whales to visiting sea turtle nesting grounds.

Idyllic beaches like Praia Banana and Praia dos Tamarindos are perfect for relaxing, while boat trips along the coast and island hopping to Ilhéu das Rolas add adventure.

Visitors can find out more about the islands' history and cuisine at former plantations like Roça São João and Roça Belo Monte, or dive into local culture at museums and heritage sites like the São Sebastião Museum and the Museum of the Sea and Artisanal Fishing (Museu do Mar e da Pesca Artesanal).

One TripAdvisor user wrote about São Tomé and Príncipe: "We travelled to Sao Tome and Principe for 15 days in Dec/Jan. What an amazing place- so beautiful, peaceful and tropical.

"We spent 1 week in Club Santana over Christmas. From here we did a day tour with Luis Miguel to the North and a day to the Centre. Both were so interesting- seeing the old Rocas, enjoying the beautiful scenery and swimming in waterfalls and beaches.

"The food is lovely everywhere and all clean and fresh. Such variety of fruit and veg and lots of fish. We loved it!"

Katherine from Lancaster said Banana Beach was 'heaven' and went on to say: "We looked down on this glorious beach on an island tour and asked to go down to it. What joy! - quiet, warm turquoise water, changing facilities, beach bar - a little piece of paradise."