THE ISLANDS HISTORY

São Tomé and Príncipe: Tales of Adventure and Intrigue

Nestled in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean, the islands of São Tomé and Príncipe in West Africa whisper tales of adventure and intrigue. Long shrouded in mystery, these islands have captivated explorers and dreamers alike, their vibrant cultures and lush landscapes waiting to be discovered.

Journey with us as we unravel the rich history of HBD Príncipe and Príncipe Collection, from its fabled beginnings to its present-day commitment to preserving its unique heritage and natural treasures.

A HIDDEN GEM REVEALED

The Discovery of São Tomé and Príncipe

Nestled in the Gulf of Guinea off the western coast of Africa, São Tomé and Príncipe represents a rare jewel of colonial history and natural beauty. These volcanic islands, discovered by Portuguese explorers in the late 15^th century (1470-1471), were uninhabited before their arrival, transforming from untouched wilderness to one of the world's most significant sugar and later cocoa production centres.

Initially viewed as strategic maritime waypoints, the islands quickly became crucial to Portugal's emerging global trade network.

Aerial view of a secluded beach with lush forest on São Tomé Island

By the 16^th century, São Tomé had become the world's largest producer of sugar, driven by slave labour from the African mainland. The islands' rich volcanic soil and tropical climate created perfect conditions for agricultural cultivation, establishing their economic significance during the brutal era of colonial expansion.

In the 19^th century, as sugar production declined, the islands transitioned to cocoa production. This agricultural shift transformed São Tomé and Príncipe into the world's largest cocoa producer by the early 20^th century, earning it the nickname "Chocolate Islands".

The nation gained independence from Portugal in 1975, emerging as a peaceful, democratic country that has preserved its extraordinary natural beauty and unique cultural heritage. Today, São Tomé and Príncipe is celebrated not just for its historical significance, but as an unspoiled ecological paradise, offering discerning travellers an authentic, pristine tropical experience.

Artistic illustration of a red open cocoa fruit from the Príncipe Collection Hotels.

THE FATE OF PRÍNCIPE

Nature's treasures at risk

The fate of Príncipe’s pristine wilderness hung in the balance in 2010, when the national government proposed allowing a major palm oil producer to clear more than 1,000 hectares of land in the north of the island, at Sundy, for plantations.

Lush forest with large trees on Príncipe Island.

HERE BE DRAGONS

The Foundation of HBD Príncipe

Despite the promise of significant investment, Príncipe’s regional government opposed the proposal for palm oil plantations, fearing it would jeopardise the island's future amid challenges like irregular electricity supply and widespread poverty.

Instead, they partnered with South African entrepreneur Mark Shuttleworth, who shared their vision for sustainable development. In 2010, he founded HBD Príncipe, a sustainable development group, and gained government approval to invest in several areas in northern Príncipe, including Bom Bom and Sundy.

In the spirit of adventure and discovery, the name, HBD Príncipe is inspired by the ancient phrase "here be dragons," a warning once etched by early mapmakers to mark the edges of the known world.

A LIVELY MIX

West African Traditions remain

Today, the rich tapestry of African culture runs deep, with the majority of the population being descendants of Cape Verdeans, Angolans, and Mozambicans who once worked on the Portuguese-run plantations during and after the times of slavery. These ancestors brought with them a lively mix of West African traditions, which continue to infuse the islands with vibrancy.

People from São Tomé and Príncipe Island in traditional costumes dancing in public

SUSTAINABLE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT

UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

In 2012, our combined efforts led to Príncipe Island being designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, a testament to our commitment to preserving the island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. All the way through, we have been working collaboratively to develop the island in a responsible manner, creating opportunities for local communities while respecting their culture, traditions, and the fragile natural environment.

Hiker standing in a lush forest on Príncipe Island, looking upwards

Príncipe Collection by HBD Príncipe

Meet Príncipe Collection

The Príncipe Collection is an hotel umbrella brand created by HBD Príncipe, a global leader in hospitality known for its excellence and sustainable approach to tourism. For over a decade, HBD Príncipe has been committed to sustainable development on Príncipe Island, fostering initiatives that preserve its natural beauty, protect local ecosystems, and support the community.

A Decade of Sustainable Development on Príncipe Island

For the past 14 years, HBD Príncipe has worked tirelessly to champion sustainable tourism and eco-conscious practices on Príncipe Island. Our goal is to ensure that the island’s pristine environment is preserved for future generations while providing opportunities for economic growth and social development for the local community.

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