Plizio Visual Lab
Claudio Corallo Chocolate Factory
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Industrial site
The chocolate manufactory of Claudio Corallo in São Tomé and Príncipe is considered a prime example of premium food production under fair and ecological conditions. Founded by Italian agronomist Claudio Corallo in the 1990s, the company specializes in refining rare cocoa varieties grown on its own Terreiro Velho plantation on Príncipe Island. The manufactory is distinguished by a minimalist processing approach aimed at preserving the natural flavors of the cocoa bean without artificial additives or excessive roasting. Economically, the company plays a vital role in the island nation's export sector, as its products are distributed worldwide in luxury stores, strengthening São Tomé's image as the 'Chocolate Island.' Production provides numerous jobs for the local population and promotes sustainable farming methods that support the preservation of tropical biodiversity. The manufactory is also a significant attraction for gastronomic tourism and contributes to the international recognition of regional agricultural products.
- Location: São Tomé & Príncipe
- Top sights: Espaço Cacau · Praia P.M
- Nearby: Pantufo (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 26 | 26 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 125 | 115 | 162 | 176 | 129 | 44 | 23 | 19 | 35 | 100 | 142 | 130 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Claudio Corallo Chocolate Factory in São Tomé processes high-quality cocoa from Príncipe Island into award-winning chocolate bars. It is a destination for food lovers, showcasing the entire bean-to-bar process.
Visiting
The factory provides guided tours and tastings, usually by appointment, allowing visitors to see the chocolate-making process. The factory is located in the capital and is accessible by taxi.
Where to view it
From the factory's viewing deck, visitors can see the roasting and conching machines in action. The surrounding area of São Tomé has colonial architecture and views of the bay.
Local products
The factory sells its own chocolate bars, chocolate drinks, and cocoa products in its shop. The chocolate is known for its unique Príncipe cocoa flavor and is an excellent souvenir.
Active season
The factory operates year-round, but tours are best scheduled during weekdays. The cocoa harvest on Príncipe peaks from September to February, ensuring fresh ingredients.
Nearby
Combine with a tour of São Tomé's historic center, including the cathedral and the Fort São Sebastião museum. Day trips to the Obo Natural Park or the beaches of the north coast are also popular.
Geography
Facts
- The company was founded in the 1990s by Italian agronomist Claudio Corallo.
- The Terreiro Velho cocoa plantation on Príncipe covers approximately 120 hectares.
- The manufactory minimizes the use of added cocoa butter in its production process.
- Corallo products are exported and sold in luxury retail outlets in over 20 countries.
- The firm is one of the largest private sector employers on the island of Príncipe.
- In addition to chocolate, the company produces high-quality coffee and pepper.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Claudio Corallo Chocolate Factory (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is the factory accessible to tourists?
Yes, there are often guided tours about chocolate production.
What is special about Corallo?
The unique local processing of the cocoa beans.
Can you buy chocolate?
Yes, you can buy directly in the factory shop.
When should you visit?
Weekday mornings are the best time to see the production.
Is there something nearby?
The city center features many historic buildings and cafés.
Claudio Corallo Chocolate Factory: where is it located?
Claudio Corallo Chocolate Factory is located in São Tomé & Príncipe.
Claudio Corallo Chocolate Factory: what is there to see?
Highlights include Espaço Cacau, Praia P.M.
Claudio Corallo Chocolate Factory: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Claudio Corallo Chocolate Factory: why is it worth visiting?
The chocolate manufactory of Claudio Corallo in São Tomé and Príncipe is considered a prime example of premium food production under fair and ecological conditions.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Africa
Nearby cities
São Tomé
São Tomé is the vibrant capital of the island nation and a place where colonial architecture meets tropical lifestyle.
Quinta da Favorita
Quinta da Favorita is a green oasis of tranquility in the north of the capital, where the colonial past lives on in the magnificent gardens.
Praia Melão
Praia Melão stretches along the southern coast of Água Grande, where the sea spray wets the tall palms.
Pantufo
Pantufo is a traditional fishing village on the outskirts of the capital, where time seems to pass more slowly.
Pantufo (Coast)
The Pantufo coast is the heart of Água Grande's maritime identity where the day's catch is celebrated directly on the shore.
Cruzeiro
Cruzeiro is nestled in the green hills behind the capital, offering a wide view over the Atlantic.
Pantufo (Suburb)
This part of Pantufo is the modern extension of the historic fishing village where the capital's urban growth is noticeable.
Bobo Forro
Bobo Forro is the vibrant, popular heart on the outskirts of the capital, where the Forros culture is most alive.
History & landmarks
Waterfront Promenade
The Waterfront Promenade, locally known as the Marginal, is the most popular strolling area in the capital.
Port of São Tomé
The Port of São Tomé is the archipelago's maritime gateway to the world, where ships from distant lands dock and goods are loaded for exp…
Portuguese Cultural Center
The Portuguese Cultural Center is an important venue for intellectual and artistic exchange in the capital.
National Historical Archive
The National Historical Archive guards the written records of São Tomé and Príncipe's history since its discovery by the Portuguese.
Supreme Court of Justice
The Supreme Court of Justice is the highest judicial authority in the country, housed in an architecturally significant building.
Central Bank
The Central Bank is the supreme monetary authority of the country and an architecturally striking building in the city center.
Presidential Palace
The Presidential Palace is an elegant colonial-era building in the heart of the capital, serving as the official residence of the head of…
Independence Square
Independence Square is the central square of the capital and the site where the country's freedom was officially proclaimed.
Nature
More places
Main Port Cocoa Warehouse
The cocoa warehouse at the main port of São Tomé is the final stop for beans before they head to the world market.
São Tomé Shipyard
The São Tomé shipyard is the central facility for the maintenance and repair of the national fleet.
Fort of São Sebastião
Built in 1575, the Fort of São Sebastião was the island's first stone defense structure, protecting the harbor from pirates and rival col…
Cathedral of Saint Thomas
Founded in the 16th century, the cathedral is the seat of the Diocese of São Tomé.
Independence Square Playground
The playground at Independence Square in São Tomé is a favorite spot for urban families where children can play in a safe environment.
Monument of the Discoveries
Located near the coast of São Tomé, this monument marks the spot where the first Portuguese navigators landed in the 15th century.
CECAB Cocoa Factory
The CECAB factory is the heart of cooperative cocoa processing in São Tomé.
São Tomé Thermal Power Plant
The São Tomé thermal power plant is the primary energy source for the capital and surrounding areas.