Ribeira Afonso - Discovering Sao Tome and Principe

Travelling to Ribeira Afonso

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Ribeira Afonso, a pretty good destination in Sao Tome and Principe (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Ribeira Afonso and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Ribeira Afonso, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Sao Tome and Principe, here's everything to know about Ribeira Afonso for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Ribeira Afonso

Ribeira Afonso is a small village located on the northeast coast of Sao Tome Island, which is part of the island nation of Sao Tome and Principe, off the coast of West Africa. The village is known for its beautiful beach and is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. It is also a popular spot for outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching. The local population primarily engages in farming, fishing, and small-scale trading. The village can be reached by road or by boat, and tourists can find accommodation in nearby guesthouses and lodges.

What to visit in Ribeira Afonso

The Ribeira Afonso region in Sao Tome and Principe is a vast area with several tourist attractions, some of them include: 1. Praia das Conchas: This beautiful beach is situated in the southern part of Sao Tome and Principe and is one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches in the country. It's known for its white sand and turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
2. Sao Tome Botanical Garden: This garden is located in the center of Sao Tome and Principe and is home to a wide collection of tropical plants and trees. Visitors can also find a small zoo and a museum that showcases the island's history.
3. Pico Cao Grande: This is one of the most iconic landmarks in Sao Tome and Principe. It's a towering rock formation that stands at over 663 meters high, and it's the perfect spot for hiking and rock climbing. It's also a great place to take in panoramic views of the island.
4. Obo National Park: This park is located in the northeast of Sao Tome and Principe and is home to several endangered species such as the Sao Tome shrew, Congo snake-eating frog, and Sao Tome giant tree frog. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, birding, and wildlife watching.
5. Agua Grande: This is a waterfall located in the Ribeira Afonso region and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the area. Visitors can hike to the waterfall and swim in the natural pools below.
6. Monte Cafe: This is a coffee plantation located in the Ribeira Afonso region and is known for producing some of the best coffee in the world. Visitors can take a tour of the plantation and learn about the coffee production process. Overall, Ribeira Afonso is an excellent destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With its diverse range of activities and stunning scenery, visitors can enjoy a memorable experience in Sao Tome and Principe.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Sao Tome and Principe, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Ribeira Afonso.

When to go on holiday to Ribeira Afonso

The best time to visit Ribeira Afonso in São Tomé and Principe is between June and September. During this period, the weather is sunny and dry which makes it a perfect time to explore the beaches, enjoy outdoor activities, and witness the beautiful scenery. The temperature during this season ranges between 20°C and 30°C which is comfortable for most travelers. However, it's important to note that accommodation prices may be slightly higher during the peak season.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Ribeira Afonso

To get to Ribeira Afonso, Sao Tome and Principe's tree-clad volcanic islands, you have to take a flight to São Tomé International Airport. From there, you can take a taxi to Ribeira Afonso or hire a rental car for the journey. The distance between São Tomé and Ribeira Afonso is approximately 80 km, and the drive can take around 2 to 3 hours depending on the traffic and road conditions. The route includes stunning scenery, including waterfalls, rivers, and lush forests, making it a pleasant trip through the countryside.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Ribeira Afonso, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Ribeira Afonso

Ribeira Afonso is a small town located in the island of Sao Tome and Principe, which is known for its rich culinary traditions. Here are some typical dishes of Ribeira Afonso: 1. Calulu: A traditional dish made with dried fish or meat, pumpkin leaves, spices, tomatoes, and onions. It is usually served with funge, a type of cassava pudding.
2. Moqueca: A fish stew made with coconut milk, peppers, tomatoes, onions, and spices. It is usually served with rice or funge.
3. Feijoada: A hearty stew made with beans, meat, and vegetables. It is usually served with rice, salad, and fried plantains.
4. Bacalhau: A Portuguese-inspired dish made with salt codfish, garlic, onions, tomatoes, and spices. It is usually served with boiled potatoes and vegetables.
5. Arroz de Marisco: A flavorful seafood rice dish made with shrimp, clams, mussels, squid, and vegetables. It is a popular dish in Sao Tome and Principe coastal towns. 6. Bolo de Cacana: A savory snack made with grated cassava, coconut syrup, and spices baked in banana leaves.
7. Buchada de cabrito: A goat stew made from the stomach, intestines, and other offal of the animal cooked with vegetables and spices. 8. Coco de galinha: A spicy chicken coconut stew made with peanut butter, palm oil, and seasonings.
9. Mofo: A fried plantain or breadfruit balls filled with a mixture of spicy shrimp or fish.
10. Beijus: A snack made from cassava flour, either sweet or savory, often served with coconut milk or cheese.
You can find general info about typical foods in Sao Tome and Principe here.

Is Ribeira Afonso an expensive destination for tourists?

Ribeira Afonso in Sao Tome and Principe is not a typical tourist destination and as such, there are limited tourist facilities established in the area. Prices for tourist services and accommodations are relatively higher compared to other areas in Sao Tome and Principe. However, the overall cost of traveling to Ribeira Afonso will depend on factors such as season, accommodation, and transportation choices. It is best to research and plan ahead to get an accurate estimate of your travel expenses for this destination.

Where to find accomodation in Ribeira Afonso

Ribeira Afonso is located on the eastern coast of Sao Tome and Principe, which is a fairly remote area. The closest town with accommodation options is probably Sao Joao dos Angolares, which is about a 30-minute drive away. There are also a few other small towns and villages in the area that may have guesthouses or homestay options available, such as Porto Alegre and Sao Jose. However, it's important to note that accommodation options in this area may be limited and may not have all the amenities you're used to, so it's recommended to book in advance and be prepared for a more rustic experience.
You can check hotel prices at Ribeira Afonso here:
Booking.com

Is Ribeira Afonso a safe destination for tourists?

Ribeira Afonso is generally considered a safe place for tourists in Sao Tome and Principe. However, visitors should exercise normal precautions and be aware of their surroundings, especially at night. Petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas, so it's important to keep an eye on your belongings and avoid carrying large sums of cash or valuables. Additionally, it's always a good idea to check with local authorities or your accommodations for any safety advice or updates before going out exploring.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Sao Tome and Principe here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Ribeira Afonso.

What type of travelers will enjoy Ribeira Afonso the most?

Ribeira Afonso in Sao Tome and Principe is a beautiful and peaceful location that is perfect for travelers looking for a quiet and serene environment. Although it is safe and enjoyable for families, the activities around Ribeira Afonso are limited to trekking, swimming, fishing, and enjoying the beautiful scenery. Couples or solo travelers who are looking for some peace, relaxation, and time to connect with nature and each other will enjoy Ribeira Afonso the most. Young people looking for fun might find the activities around Ribeira Afonso too limited. However, it is important to note that Sao Tome and Principe as a whole offer plenty of activities and experiences, like visiting the beaches, exploring the rainforests, trying local food, and learning about the culture and history of the destination.

How to get around Ribeira Afonso

In Ribeira Afonso, the main mode of transportation is either by foot or motorcycle taxis, also known as "mototaxis." It is recommended to hire a mototaxi driver to explore the area as the roads can be rough and difficult to navigate without local knowledge. It is not common to find rental cars or bicycles in the area.

What to see around Ribeira Afonso

Sure, here are some places to visit on a day trip from Ribeira Afonso in São Tomé and Príncipe: 1. São Tomé Island: You could explore the nearby São Tomé Island, which has plenty of cultural and natural attractions to offer, such as Pico Cão Grande, São Tomé Palace, and the São Tomé National Museum.
2. Jale Beach: This is a popular beach nearby Ribeira Afonso, which is perfect for sunbathing and swimming in the clear waters.
3. Praia das Conchas: It is a secluded beach known for its seashells, crystal-clear waters, and coral reef.
4. Blue Lagoon: An astonishing natural pool in the mountains, surrounded by a dense and lush forest that creates an intimate and exotic environment.
5. Roça Bombaim: It is an abandoned coffee and cocoa plantation that is now a museum, offering a glimpse into the island's colonial past.
For every travel information about Sao Tome and Principe you can click here.

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