Ilhéu das Cabras
A twin-humped islet off São Tomé town, a seabird nesting site.
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Ilhéu das Cabras sits a few kilometres off São Tomé town, a rocky islet with two humps that is the first thing seen from the waterfront, and it is a protected seabird site: brown boobies and terns nest on it in numbers. Boats run out for diving and snorkelling on the reef around it. Landing is restricted to protect the nesting birds, so most visits stay on the water.
What you actually see
- The twin humps - the islet's profile seen from the São Tomé waterfront.
- The seabird colonies - brown boobies and terns nesting on the rock.
- The surrounding reef - the diving and snorkelling ground around the islet.
- The protected status - the restrictions on landing during nesting.
When to go
June to September is the drier gravana season with calmer water. Seabirds nest through much of the year. Swell cancels boat trips.
Honest expectations
Landing is restricted and most trips stay on the water. Boat operations out of São Tomé are limited and must be arranged. Swell cancels crossings.
Nearby
São Tomé town is west, and Praia dos Tamarindos is northwest.
What to pack for Ilhéu das Cabras
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.