Seasons
Rolas shares the wet climate of southern São Tomé. The gravana (June–September) is the driest period and good for the drive, though it can be breezy with some chop in the channel. The gravanito, around December to February, usually brings sunnier weather and calmer, clearer water for snorkelling.
In the main rains — March to May and October–November — showers are heavy but often brief; the crossing still runs on most days.
Wildlife
- Humpback whales: may be seen from the boat between about July and October.
- Turtles: nest on beaches around the south from about November to March.
- Dolphins: possible at any time of year.
Time of day
Cross in the morning, when the sea is usually calmer and the view of São Tomé clearer, and be back on the mainland by mid-afternoon.
Ilhéu das Rolas month by month
| Month | Avg high | Avg low | Visit rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 29°C | 23°C | ★★☆ Good time |
| February | 30°C | 23°C | ★★☆ Good time |
| March | 30°C | 23°C | ★☆☆ Wettest months |
| April | 30°C | 23°C | ★☆☆ Wettest months |
| May | 29°C | 23°C | ★★☆ Good time |
| June | 28°C | 22°C | ★★★ Best season |
| July | 27°C | 21°C | ★★★ Best season |
| August | 27°C | 21°C | ★★★ Best season |
| September | 28°C | 22°C | ★★★ Best season |
| October | 28°C | 22°C | ★☆☆ Wettest months |
| November | 29°C | 22°C | ★☆☆ Wettest months |
| December | 29°C | 23°C | ★★☆ Good time |
Temperatures are approximate long-term averages and vary with altitude; rain is possible in any month. Check a forecast before you travel.
