Praia Inhame Ecolodge

Top choice in São Tomé


At the remote southern end of the island, this ecolodge has been a great success due to its excellent management, which pays attention to details. Nicely situated on its own private beach, with a view toward Ilhėu das Rolas, it offers clean wooden bungalows on stilts. The bungalows are of various sizes, with comfy beds and wide decks nestled in the trees.

You can hang out for hours in the waterfront restaurant, which has a varied menu including a wide selection of fresh fish (menu €12–16) and a well-stocked bar. The ecolodge survives on wind and solar power, and its own clever water system, thanks to one of its owners, an agricultural engineer. Water is heated by burning coconut husks. Activities include far-ranging boat trips, snorkelling, exploring nearby beaches, observing nesting turtles (October to March) and whale watching (July to August). You can also make a day trip to Ilhėu das Rolas, or launch the two-day Volta a Ilha trek. Avoid the fishing unless you like hand-lining.