Guides and fees
Use a local guide for every hike and a licensed boat for sea trips. Guiding and park fees are a direct return to islanders for keeping the forest standing. Agree prices beforehand and pay in cash.
What to bring
- Boat trips: hat, long sleeves, sunscreen, water, snorkel gear, a dry bag and something warm for the ride back.
- Hikes: grippy shoes, long trousers, rain jacket, two litres of water, repellent.
- Birding: binoculars and patience; a torch for owls.
Safety
Wear a life jacket on boats. On trails, the hazards are mud, roots and heat; there are no dangerous large animals. Tell your accommodation where you are going. Medical help is limited to a small hospital in Santo António.
Watching wildlife well
Keep your distance from turtles, whales and nesting seabirds, never use flash at night, and do not feed monkeys or parrots. Buy nothing made from turtle shell or coral.
Two days in the reserve
- Day 1: boat to Baía das Agulhas with snorkelling and a beach lunch; evening turtle walk at Praia Grande in season.
- Day 2: dawn birding, then the Pico Papagaio hike; afternoon at Praia Banana.
Príncipe Biosphere Reserve: FAQs
What is a Biosphere Reserve?
A UNESCO designation for places that combine nature conservation with sustainable use by the people who live there. On Príncipe it covers the whole island and its waters.
Can I reach Baía das Agulhas on foot?
Not practically. There are no roads or maintained trails to the bay; it is visited by boat.
Will the boat trip definitely run?
No. It depends on wind and swell, which is why you should schedule it early in your stay.
Are there dangerous animals?
No large ones. Príncipe has no venomous snakes dangerous to people; insects and the sun are the main nuisances.
