Pico Cão Grande

Pico Cão Grande is a striking volcanic plug in the southern part of São Tomé Island and one of the country's most iconic landmarks. Rising 663 meters above sea level, this steep phonolite needle towers approximately 370 meters above the surrounding terrain. It was formed by the solidification of magma within the vent of a former volcano, with the softer surrounding rock eroding away over millions of years. The summit is extremely difficult to climb due to its near-vertical walls and the frequent moisture that makes the rock slippery. The first documented ascent was only achieved in 1991 by a team of climbers. The mountain is located within the Obô National Park and is most often shrouded in dense mist, giving it a mystical appearance. Numerous rare plant species, including giant lobelias and endemic ferns, are found in the surrounding vegetation. Its silhouette is visible from a great distance and has long served as an important landmark for navigation in the southern portion of the island.

Nearby cities

São João dos Angolares

São João dos Angolares is the cradle of a proud culture that has its roots in a shipwreck centuries ago.

Ribeira Peixe

Ribeira Peixe is a lively community in the deep south that has developed around one of the country's busiest oil palm plantations.

Dona Augusta

Dona Augusta lies hidden on the wild southeast coast where the Obô forest meets the untamed Atlantic.

History & landmarks

Ilhéu das Rolas Lighthouse

The lighthouse on Ilhéu das Rolas marks the southernmost point of the archipelago and is an important maritime signal near the Equator.

Nature

Rio Caué

Rio Caué is the lifeline of São Tomé's southernmost district, flowing through the heart of Obô National Park.

Rio Iô Grande

Rio Iô Grande is one of the island's most water-rich rivers, meandering through the deep valleys of the south.

More places

Pico Vinte e Cinco

This mountain in the far southwest of São Tomé marks a wild and inaccessible region.

Ribeira Peixe Oil Palm Center

Ribeira Peixe in the deep south of the island is the heart of Santomean oil palm production.

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Ribeira Peixe Oil Mill

In the heart of the vast oil palm plantations of Ribeira Peixe lies this modern oil mill that extracts crude oil from the fruits of the o…

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Pico Maria Fernandes

Pico Maria Fernandes is a prominent elevation in southern São Tomé that often stands in the shadow of the more famous Cão Grande but is n…

Pico Gago Coutinho

Named after the famous Portuguese navigator, this mountain is an important surveying point in the south of the island.

Roça Monte Mário

Located in the remote south of São Tomé, Monte Mário was one of the most isolated plantations.

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Iô Grande Bird Watching Site

On the banks of the Rio Iô Grande in the Caué district lies one of the island's best spots for observing rare bird species.

Praia Jalé

Praia Jalé is a wild, natural beach in the deep south, world-renowned for its ecological significance.