Saotomeandprincipe in March

March weather, activities, events & insider tips

March Weather in Saotomeandprincipe

28°C (82°F) High Temp

23°C (73°F) Low Temp

45 mm (1.8 inches) Rainfall

82% Humidity

Is March Right for You?

Advantages

Peak dry season visibility for diving and snorkeling - underwater visibility reaches 25-30 m (82-98 ft) around Ilhéu das Rolas and Lagoa Azul
Optimal whale watching conditions as humpback whales migrate through Saotome waters from late February through April
Cocoa harvest season peaks in March - plantations offer fresh bean-to-bar experiences and chocolate making workshops at their most authentic
Consistent trade winds (15-20 km/h or 9-12 mph) create perfect conditions for sailing between islands and coastal exploration

Considerations

Accommodation prices increase 40-60% compared to rainy season as international visitors arrive for prime weather
Popular beaches like Praia Jale and Praia das Conchas can get crowded during weekend exodus from Saotome city (population 71,000)
Afternoon temperatures combined with 82% humidity can feel oppressive between 12pm-3pm, limiting midday outdoor activities

Best Activities in March

Pico Cão Grande Trekking Tours

March offers the clearest views of this dramatic 663 m (2,175 ft) volcanic plug. Morning mists clear by 9am, providing unobstructed photography opportunities. The 6-hour trek through primary rainforest is comfortable in March's moderate temperatures, avoiding both rainy season mud and peak dry season heat.

Booking Tip: Book 2-3 weeks ahead through certified mountain guides (typically €45-65 per person). Tours include local Angolares community guides who share traditional plant knowledge. Early morning departures (6am) essential for best weather window.

Ilhéu das Rolas Island Day Trips

March's calm seas (wave heights under 1 m or 3.3 ft) make boat transfers comfortable to this equator-crossing island. Perfect visibility for snorkeling at Praia Inhame and exploring tidal pools. The iconic Equator Monument is accessible without rainy season flooding.

Booking Tip: Full-day trips typically cost €75-95 including boat transfer, lunch, and snorkeling gear. Book through island resort operators or mainland tour companies (see current options in booking section below). Speedboat trips take 45 minutes from Porto Alegre.

Roça Plantation Historical Tours

March coincides with cocoa pod harvest, offering authentic plantation experiences. Visit working roças like Roça Água Izé and Roça São João dos Angolares during peak processing season. Colonial architecture photography is optimal with March's bright, consistent lighting.

Booking Tip: Plantation tours range €25-40 and include chocolate making workshops. Book directly with roças or through local operators 1-2 weeks ahead. Transportation included from Saotome city (distances 15-45 km or 9-28 miles).

Príncipe Island Nature Expeditions

March is ideal for Príncipe's endemic bird watching - the Saotome Grosbeak and Príncipe Sunbird are most active during dry season mornings. UNESCO Biosphere Reserve hiking trails are accessible without muddy conditions, and Banana Beach offers pristine swimming conditions.

Booking Tip: Multi-day Príncipe packages typically €180-250 including inter-island flights and accommodation. Bird watching guides charge €30-45 per day. Book flights to Príncipe Airport 3-4 weeks ahead as capacity is limited to 20 passengers per flight.

Traditional Fishing Village Experiences

March's stable weather allows reliable access to remote coastal communities like Neves and Guadalupe. Witness traditional fishing techniques, participate in net hauling, and enjoy fresh catch prepared in local style. Beach access roads are dry and navigable.

Booking Tip: Community-based tourism experiences cost €20-35 per person including meals. Arrange through local associations or guesthouses 5-7 days ahead. Include Saotome city pickup (travel time 30-90 minutes depending on village).

Lagoa Azul Snorkeling Adventures

March provides the year's clearest water conditions at this northern lagoon. Visibility reaches 20+ m (66+ ft) for observing reef fish and sea turtles. Calm conditions make it suitable for novice snorkelers, while the nearby mangrove channels offer unique ecosystem exploration.

Booking Tip: Half-day snorkeling trips cost €35-50 including equipment and transport from Neves village. Combine with lunch at local restaurants for full-day experience. Book through beach operators or island tour companies (see current tours in booking section).

March Events & Festivals

Mid to Late March

Cocoa Festival and Harvest Celebrations

Local communities celebrate peak harvest with traditional music, dance, and chocolate tastings. Plantation workers demonstrate historical processing techniques passed down from colonial times.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight, long-sleeved cotton shirts - protects against UV index 9 and biting insects during plantation visits

Quick-dry hiking pants - essential for rainforest treks and occasional afternoon showers (last 15-30 minutes)

Waterproof day pack with 20L+ capacity - for carrying snorkeling gear, camera protection, and water during island excursions

Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50+ - mandatory for marine conservation areas and intense equatorial sun

Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support - volcanic terrain and plantation trails require proper footwear for 3-8 hour treks

Lightweight rain poncho - more practical than umbrella for sudden showers during outdoor activities

Moisture-wicking underwear and socks - 82% humidity makes cotton uncomfortable for active days

Insect repellent with 20%+ DEET - essential for dawn/dusk activities and rainforest exploration

Portable phone charger/power bank - limited electricity in remote villages and during long plantation tours

Mesh laundry bag - for wet clothes after beach/snorkeling activities, particularly useful in humid conditions

Insider Knowledge

Local banks (Banco Internacional de Saotome e Príncipe) often run out of cash on weekends - withdraw dobras on weekdays, as many local experiences require cash payment

March is 'matiné' season when locals take advantage of dry weather for weekend beach parties - join Saturday afternoon gatherings at Praia Lagarto for authentic cultural exchange

Book internal flights to Príncipe Island for Tuesday or Wednesday departures - weekend flights are prioritized for international connections and often overbooked

Restaurants serve fresh lobster and crab during March's calm sea conditions - negotiate directly with fishermen at Pantufo market (mornings 6-9am) for 50% savings versus hotel restaurants

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities between 12pm-3pm when temperature and humidity peak - plan indoor plantation tours or museum visits during midday heat

Bringing only sandals - volcanic rock beaches and hiking trails require closed-toe shoes with grip for safety

Expecting consistent internet connectivity - download offline maps and translation apps before departing Saotome city for remote areas