Monte Cafe Plantation & City Tour

OVERVIEW

This all-encompassing excursion leaves little to the imagination, as it showcases the island’s highlights, including a waterfall, coffee plantation, folkloric shows and a tour of Sao Tome. Depart from the pier and drive south toward the center of the island, a land of tropical forests and volcanically formed mountains that are ideal for growing coffee. Here in the dense forest, you will find Sao Nicolau waterfall, an idyllic setting with an abundance of colorful endemic birds chirping and flitting among the trees. Later, at the Monte Café Plantation, an old plantation house, you will visit its facilities and have an explanation on how coffee was processed in Sao Tome and discover the factors that affect the taste, aroma and quality. It’s fascinating to understand the many steps involved as the green coffee beans are transported from the fields, dried, roasted and sorted, before export. After a buffet style lunch, you will explore more of the capital, a city that the Portuguese founded in 1485 on the Bay of Ana de Chaves. The diversity of attractions is remarkable, ranging from a nearby fishing village where you'll be treated to a folkloric performance to the National Museum, which is housed in a Portuguese-built fortress from 1576. Other highlights include the city cathedral, Presidential Palace, several colonial-style plazas, and a gallery that showcases local artists. Finally, you will return to the pier.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Thrill to the riot of birds chattering and flying about at the photogenic São Nicolau waterfall.
• Tour the facilities at the aromatic Monte Café Plantation to understand the production of their delicious coffee.
• Sit for a typical Santomean lunch served at a downtown restaurant in the bustling capital.
• See São Tomé’s rose-pink Presidential Palace, several colonial-era squares and a gallery that features local artists.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.