Praia Jalé

Praia Jalé is located at the southern tip of São Tomé Island and is considered one of the most ecologically valuable beaches on the entire African continent. This remote coastal strip is world-famous as a primary nesting site for several endangered sea turtle species, including the Green Sea Turtle, the Hawksbill Turtle, and the giant Leatherback Turtle. The pristine nature, where dense rainforest transitions almost immediately into golden sand, provides good conditions for egg-laying between October and March. Local conservation initiatives operate a simple eco-camp here to protect nests from poachers and provide visitors with a responsible nature experience. Geologically, the beach was formed by the erosion of volcanic rock, resulting in a mixture of fine sand and striking rock formations in the surf. Praia Jalé symbolizes the successful transition from exploitation of marine resources to sustainable ecotourism. Due to its isolated location, the bay remains spared from mass tourism, preserving its wild, original atmosphere.

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.

Dona Augusta

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

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.

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

Porto Alegre Jetty

The Porto Alegre jetty in the deep south is the most important logistical point for supplying Ilhéu das Rolas.

Ilhéu das Rolas Jetty

The jetty on the small island of Ilhéu das Rolas is the only link for exchanging goods and people with the main island of São Tomé.

Ilhéu das Rolas

Ilhéu das Rolas is a paradisiacal island south of São Tomé, located directly on the Equator.

Pico Vinte e Cinco

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

Pico Cão Grande

Pico Cão Grande is a spectacular volcanic plug that rises like a giant needle above the southern rainforest.

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…

Porto Alegre Mangrove

In the far south of São Tomé, near Porto Alegre, extensive mangrove swamps stretch out.