HBD Principe

São Tomé and Príncipe,  Africa’s second smallest country is home to some of the most biodiverse rainforests on the planet, striking phonolite towers and pristine beaches, the spectacular landscapes of the ancient isles and their spirited communities remain shaped by recent history.

HBD Príncipe is an ecotourism and agroforestry business based in the twin-island nation of São Tomé and Príncipe. With four unique boutique hotel properties as well as agricultural operations, our focus is on the sustainable development and conservation of Príncipe.

We hope that our achievements, now and as we evolve, will see Príncipe Island considered an inspiring example of sustainable development. As well as being an inspiration to the rest of the world, we aim to show how private investors can work together with regional government and local organisations for good.

Our collection of four properties have distinct personalities, but they are bound by the warm hospitality provided by the team at each (https://www.hbdprincipe.com/stay/): 

Bom Bom Príncipe

There is a rare beauty in places that feel untouched, and Bom Bom, with its 19 hillside and beachfront bungalows, set on a peninsula between two crescents of honey-coloured sand on Príncipe’s northern tip has it in abundance. This is a place to revel in the scent of hibiscus flowers on the salt-licked breeze, listen to the lilting birdsong of the blue-breasted kingfisher, or wander, unhurried across a castaway-feel wooden walkway above the ocean to dine at the namesake tropical islet restaurant. In tune with nature’s rhythms, it is also an ideal base to get to know Príncipe’s unique flora and fauna both above and below the waves.

Hotel Sundy Praia

Find serenity at this distinctive eco-resort and stay in one of 15 tented villas, which sit in the heart of a jungle thick with banana, beach almond and coral trees. Here, African grey parrots and cobalt and orange-feathered Príncipe kingfishers flutter through the canopy, just moments from the gentle fizz of the shoreline on Príncipe’s rugged northwest coast. Drawing inspiration from traditional casa de pescadores, and the earthy colours of its natural setting, each villa—designed by acclaimed architect Didier Lefort—sits atop timber decks with a swooping white canvas ceiling rising to a golden spire. A striking bamboo restaurant, wellness center and oceanside infinity pool complete this immersive getaway.

Hotel Roça Sundy

Stay in the heart of Príncipe’s chocolate story at an elegant roça, formerly the island’s largest cacao plantation. Respectfully restored with columned verandahs, brightly patterned tiling and peppered with vintage artefacts, the grounds are shared with the local community giving a true insight into day-to-day life, and the chance to get to know your neighbours. It’s also a site of groundbreaking scientific discovery, as observations at Roça Sundy during 1919’s solar eclipse confirmed Einstein’s general theory of relativity.

Hotel Omali São Tomé 

For an exploration base close to São Tomé’s city centre and airport, and for easy connections to Príncipe Island, there’s no better place to rest your head than Omali. Aptly-named, omali meaning ‘ocean and source of life,' this characterful 30-room boutique hotel sits opposite rugged Lagarto Beach, serves the best chocolate mousse at the much-loved restaurant and has an al-fresco pool to relax by. Whether travelling to São Tomé for business or pleasure, a warm welcome awaits.