Things to Do in Bom Bom Island

Bom Bom Island, São Tomé e Príncipe - Complete Travel Guide

Bom Bom Island is a pristine tropical paradise located off the northern coast of Príncipe Island in São Tomé e Príncipe. This small, exclusive island resort destination offers visitors an untouched slice of African island life, surrounded by crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and lush tropical vegetation. The island serves as a luxury eco-resort destination, providing an intimate escape for travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty in one of the world's most remote and unspoiled locations. As part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Príncipe, Bom Bom Island represents the epitome of sustainable luxury tourism in the Gulf of Guinea. The island's commitment to environmental conservation, combined with its stunning natural setting and exclusive accommodations, makes it a unique destination for discerning travelers. Visitors can expect world-class hospitality, exceptional diving and snorkeling opportunities, and the chance to experience one of Africa's best-kept secrets in complete privacy and comfort.

Top Things to Do in Bom Bom Island

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

Explore the pristine coral reefs and diverse marine life surrounding Bom Bom Island in some of the clearest waters in the Atlantic. The underwater ecosystem features colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, rays, and pristine coral formations that remain largely untouched by mass tourism. The island's location within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve ensures exceptional water quality and marine biodiversity.

Booking Tip: Diving packages are typically arranged through the resort with certified PADI instructors. Expect to pay €40-60 per dive, with equipment rental included. Best visibility occurs during dry season (June-September). Book multi-dive packages for better rates.

Sea Turtle Watching

Witness the magical experience of sea turtle nesting and hatching on Bom Bom's pristine beaches. The island serves as an important nesting site for hawksbill and olive ridley turtles, with guided nighttime excursions offering visitors the chance to observe these ancient creatures in their natural habitat. The experience provides insight into crucial conservation efforts protecting these endangered species.

Booking Tip: Turtle watching tours are seasonal (October-March for nesting, January-May for hatching) and must be booked through certified guides. Tours cost around €30-50 per person and require advance booking. Respect wildlife guidelines and bring red-filtered flashlights.

Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Navigate the calm, turquoise waters around Bom Bom Island using kayaks or stand-up paddleboards to explore hidden coves and mangrove areas. The protected waters provide perfect conditions for water sports, allowing visitors to discover secluded beaches and observe marine life from the surface. Equipment is typically provided by the resort with basic instruction available.

Booking Tip: Water sports equipment is usually included in resort packages or available for €15-25 per hour rental. Morning sessions offer the calmest conditions and best wildlife viewing opportunities. No advance booking required, but check weather conditions.

Island Hopping to Príncipe

Take day trips to explore Príncipe Island's lush rainforests, cocoa plantations, and dramatic volcanic landscapes. Visitors can discover the island's colonial history, visit traditional villages, and experience the unique culture of this remote Atlantic archipelago. The main island offers hiking opportunities, cultural sites, and insights into the local way of life.

Booking Tip: Day trips to Príncipe cost €80-120 per person including boat transfer and guide. Book through resort concierge for reliable operators. Trips include lunch and transportation. Best weather for island hopping is during dry season (June-September).

Sunset Sailing and Dolphin Watching

Experience breathtaking sunsets aboard traditional sailing boats while searching for dolphins and other marine wildlife in the waters around Bom Bom Island. These peaceful excursions offer stunning views of the island's coastline and provide excellent opportunities for photography and wildlife observation. The calm evening waters often attract playful dolphins and seabirds.

Booking Tip: Sunset sailing trips cost €45-70 per person and typically last 2-3 hours. Book in advance during peak season (July-August). Trips include refreshments and are weather dependent. Best dolphin sightings occur during calmer evening conditions.

Getting There

Reaching Bom Bom Island requires multiple connections, starting with international flights to São Tomé International Airport (TMS) via Lisbon, Paris, or Luanda. From São Tomé, visitors must take a domestic flight to Príncipe Airport (PCP), which operates several times per week with STP Airways. From Príncipe Airport, the resort provides boat transfers to Bom Bom Island, which take approximately 10-15 minutes. The entire journey from Europe typically takes 12-18 hours including connections, and advance planning is essential due to limited flight schedules.

Getting Around

Transportation on Bom Bom Island is primarily on foot, as the small island can be easily explored via walking paths and beach trails. The resort provides bicycles for guests who prefer to cycle around the island's perimeter. For excursions to Príncipe Island or other nearby locations, the resort arranges boat transfers and guided tours with local operators. Golf carts are available for guests with mobility concerns, and all transportation within the island is coordinated through the resort's concierge service.

Where to Stay

Bom Bom Island Resort

Príncipe Island Accommodations

Santo António Guesthouses

Eco-Lodge Options

Beachfront Bungalows

Luxury Safari Tents

Food & Dining

Dining on Bom Bom Island centers around the resort's restaurant, which specializes in fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and fusion cuisine combining Portuguese, African, and international flavors. The menu features locally caught fish, lobster, and traditional São Toméan dishes prepared with organic ingredients. Meals are typically served buffet-style or as set menus, with special dietary requirements accommodated upon request. The resort also offers beach barbecues, sunset cocktails, and picnic lunches for excursions, providing a comprehensive culinary experience that showcases the island's natural bounty.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Bom Bom Island is during the dry season from June to September, when rainfall is minimal, humidity is lower, and sea conditions are optimal for water activities. This period offers the clearest skies, calmest seas, and best visibility for diving and snorkeling. The shoulder seasons of May and October can also be pleasant with fewer crowds and competitive rates. The wet season (October to May) brings higher temperatures, increased humidity, and frequent afternoon showers, but also lush vegetation and excellent turtle nesting opportunities from December to March.

Insider Tips

Pack reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent as these items are expensive and limited on the island

Bring cash (Euros preferred) as credit card acceptance is limited and there are no ATMs on Bom Bom Island

Book spa treatments and special dining experiences in advance as the resort has limited capacity and high demand during peak season