Seasons
For the Baía das Agulhas boat trip, the calmest seas usually come in the hot, sunny spell around December to February. For hiking, the gravana — about June to August — gives the driest trails, though it can bring wind and swell on exposed coasts.
In the wettest months (March to May, October–November) the forest is magnificent but trails are slick, clouds sit on the peaks and outings are more often postponed.
Wildlife calendar
| What | When |
|---|---|
| Sea turtles nesting | About November to March |
| Turtle hatchlings | About January to April |
| Humpback whales | About July to October |
| Endemic birds | All year; most vocal as the rains begin |
| Seabird colonies | Present much of the year |
Time of day
Boats leave in the morning, when the sea is usually smoother. Start hikes early: cloud gathers on the summits from late morning.
Príncipe Biosphere Reserve month by month
| Month | Avg high | Avg low | Visit rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 30°C | 23°C | ★★☆ Good time |
| February | 30°C | 23°C | ★★☆ Good time |
| March | 31°C | 23°C | ★☆☆ Wettest months |
| April | 30°C | 23°C | ★☆☆ Wettest months |
| May | 30°C | 23°C | ★☆☆ Wettest months |
| June | 28°C | 22°C | ★★★ Best season |
| July | 28°C | 22°C | ★★★ Best season |
| August | 28°C | 22°C | ★★★ Best season |
| September | 29°C | 22°C | ★★☆ Good time |
| October | 29°C | 22°C | ★☆☆ Wettest months |
| November | 29°C | 22°C | ★☆☆ Wettest months |
| December | 30°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.
