Plizio Visual Lab
A traditional, slow-cooked fish stew best enjoyed in small, family-run local eateries.
Look for small beachside setups where the daily catch is grilled right on the sand.
Pick up fresh jackfruit and papaya from rustic roadside stalls near the forest edge.
Visit nearby roças (historic plantations) to purchase raw cacao beans directly.
Simple handcrafted souvenirs made from local wood, occasionally sold in the village.
Walk along the wild coastline just outside the settlement for uninterrupted sounds of the Atlantic.
Quiet, often misty areas at the edge of the primary forest, first-rate for spotting endemic birds.
Water temperature…
Dona Augusta lies hidden along the wild southeastern coast of São Tomé in the Caué district, where the road between São João dos Angolares and Porto Alegre dwindles into a narrow track through dense secondary rainforest. The settlement arose as a small roça outpost during the cocoa boom of the late 19th century and was named after an influential Portuguese plantation owner. Today, Dona Augusta is a striking example of how tropical forest, once left alone, reclaims former fields and buildings: crumbling walls disappear under vines, cocoa trees grow wild among breadfruit trees and giant ferns. The nearby coast features dramatic basalt formations, volcanic traces of the island's young geology, as well as hidden coves where seabirds and marine turtles nest. Trails from here lead into the Obô National Park, home to endemic species such as the São Tomé ibis and the rare giant shrew, making Dona Augusta a lesser-known spot for nature enthusiasts.
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 | 25 | 24 | 25 | 25 | 26 | 26 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 132 | 120 | 162 | 162 | 104 | 29 | 14 | 12 | 22 | 81 | 134 | 133 |
Notable places around
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Flowing along the shoreline of Dona Augusta, Praia Grande provides a generous stretch of beach for seaside enjoyment. The area feels expansive and breezy, creating a good setting for long coastal walks and outdoor relaxation. Visitors love taking refreshing dips in the ocean or setting up a spot to read and sunbathe. Visiting during the golden hour presents wonderful lighting for enjoying the local scenery.
Located in Dona Augusta, Praia Diogo Afonso gives a relaxing beach experience in São Tomé and Príncipe. Visitors can expect a quiet environment that is well-suited for sunbathing or taking long walks along the shore. The natural coastal flair invites you to linger by the water. For the best conditions, a visit during the warmer months is recommended.
This beautiful stretch of beach, Praia Zongõnhim, is also located in Dona Augusta. Those who come here can look forward to an unspoiled backdrop that reflects the typical coastal life of São Tomé and Príncipe. It is wonderful to sit in the sand and listen to the sound of the waves. It is advisable to bring enough water and sun protection.
