Yachting company, Pelorus, introduces Sao Tome and Principe as newest destination

Experiential travel and yachting company Pelorus is introducing Sao Tome and Principe as its newest destination.

Described by Pelorus as the “West African Galapagos” for its endemic biodiversity and untouched landscapes, the remote island nation becomes the operator’s flagship destination for 2025. The company has been soft-launching the archipelago by sending select travelers there throughout 2024 before formally announcing it as their featured destination for next year.

Located in the Gulf of Guinea, the destination is accessible via flights from Lisbon or Ghana.

“There has never been a better time to travel to this beautiful nation,” said Geordie Mackay-Lewis, who co-founded the company with Jimmy Carroll, a fellow former British Army captain. “This follows a number of years of dedicated governmental focus on preserving its biodiversity.”

The company reports a 200% increase in demand for conservation-led experiences, with 42% of their 2024 bookings including immersive cultural components.

Pelorus will offer several distinctive experiences in the destination, including bespoke mobile camps in remote locations, community-based activities such as foraging and fishing with locals and wildlife expeditions in partnership with conservation organizations. The islands are home to approximately 120 bird species (28 endemic) and four turtle species, with rainforests covering 90% of the island of Principe.

Adventure offerings include waterfall abseiling, motorbike exploration and private boat excursions to hidden coves. Culinary experiences focus on the islands’ Portuguese-African fusion cuisine, cacao and vanilla plantations and locally crafted gin tastings.

Pelorus’ destination program was developed following extensive research in collaboration with local experts, conservationists and communities, reflecting the company’s focus on high-value, low-impact travel.

Sao Tome and Principe joins a select list of destinations under active development by Pelorus that aim to balance exploration with ecological stewardship.

Source: TravelWeekly