Sao Tome and Principe

Sao Tome and Principe is a small island country in the Gulf of Guinea, off the west coast of Central Africa. It is the smallest country in Africa. The two main islands are covered in lush tropical forests and volcanic peaks. The country was once one of the world's biggest producers of cocoa.

Land and People

About 220,000 people live in Sao Tome and Principe. The capital is Sao Tome. The islands are volcanic with thick rainforests, waterfalls, and beautiful beaches. The Pico de Sao Tome is the highest point at about 6,640 feet.

Culture and Fun Facts

Chocolate is still an important product of the islands. Portuguese is the official language. The islands were uninhabited until the Portuguese arrived in the 1470s. Sao Tome and Principe has unique plants and animals found nowhere else on Earth.

Fun Facts

• Sao Tome and Principe is the smallest country in Africa.
• In the early 1900s, these tiny islands were the largest producer of cocoa in the world.
• The equator passes just south of the island of Sao Tome.

Did You Know?

Sao Tome and Principe was once the biggest producer of cocoa beans in the entire world. Today, the islands still grow high-quality cocoa used to make fine chocolate.