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Nova Moca Coffee Plantation
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The Nova Moca coffee plantation is a remnant of São Tomé's once-thriving coffee industry. During the colonial era, the island was one of the world's leading coffee producers, but after independence, many plantations (roças) fell into decline. Nova Moca has been partially revived and is dedicated to cultivating high-quality Arabica coffee. The plantation provides insight into the entire coffee production process, from raising the coffee plants and harvesting the red cherries to washing, drying, and roasting the beans. Visitors can take guided tours and taste the coffee produced on-site. The facility also preserves the historic architecture of the roça, including the main house and workers' quarters, telling the complex story of the island's plantation economy.
- Location: São Tomé & Príncipe
- Nearby: Bombom (Mé-Zóchi) (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?
Nova Moca Coffee Plantation on São Tomé is famous for high-quality Arabica beans grown in the cloud forests of Mé-Zóchi. It plays a key role in the island’s coffee history and tourism.
Visiting
The plantation is open to visitors, often via guided tours that demonstrate coffee processing. The terrain is partly steep and requires proper footwear.
Where to view it
From the plantation house terrace, you get a spectacular view over the cloud forests and valley. The hiking trail above the plantation also features viewpoints towards the coast.
Local products
The main product is high-quality Arabica coffee beans, often sold whole or ground. Honey and tropical fruits like papaya and bananas are also grown on the plantation.
Active season
The main coffee harvest season in São Tomé runs from May to September. During this time, the plantations are the most lively and processing facilities are operating.
Nearby
Combine the visit with a hike in Óbô Natural Park or a trip to São Nicolau waterfalls. The capital São Tomé with its colonial architecture is also nearby.
Geography
Facts
- Cultivates high-quality Arabica coffee.
- Once part of a vast network of plantations (Roças).
- Offers guided tours and coffee tastings.
- Demonstrates the bean-to-cup process.
- Coffee cherries are picked by hand.
- Colonial-era architecture is still visible.
- Contributes to the revival of the coffee industry.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Nova Moca Coffee Plantation (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is the plantation open to visitors?
Yes, guided tours are offered.
Can you taste the coffee?
Yes, tastings are often included.
What is the best time to visit?
It is most exciting during harvest.
Is it difficult to get there?
It is located in the mountains, 4x4 recommended.
Can I film there?
Generally allowed for private use.
Nova Moca Coffee Plantation: where is it located?
Nova Moca Coffee Plantation is located in São Tomé & Príncipe.
Nova Moca Coffee Plantation: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Nova Moca Coffee Plantation: why is it worth visiting?
The Nova Moca coffee plantation is a remnant of São Tomé's once-thriving coffee industry.
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