Geography
Where is Sao Tome and Principe located?
Sao Tome and Principe is located in Central Africa, specifically in the Gulf of Guinea. It is situated off the western equatorial coast of Gabon and Equatorial Guinea.
Which two volcanic islands make up the nation of São Tomé and Príncipe?
São Tomé and Príncipe
In what ocean are these islands located?
The Gulf of Guinea, in the Atlantic Ocean
Which island is larger and more populated?
São Tomé
What is the highest point on São Tomé and Príncipe?
Pico do Cão Grande (2,024 meters)
What type of vegetation dominates the islands?
Rainforests and tropical dry forests
History and Culture
When did São Tomé and Príncipe gain independence from Portugal?
July 12, 1975
What is the main language spoken in the country?
Portuguese
What are some traditional dances of São Tomé and Príncipe?
Sá bate, Tchiloli, and Puita
What is a popular musical genre in the country?
Cabo Verdean morna and São Toméan mazurca
What is the main religion practiced in São Tomé and Príncipe?
Roman Catholicism
Nature and Wildlife
What type of whales can be spotted off the coast of the islands during migration season?
Humpback whales
What is the national bird of São Tomé and Príncipe?
The São Tomé ibis
What is a unique endemic plant found on the islands?
The giant scarlet basil (Ocimum kilimandscharicum)
Where can you find Pico Cão National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
On the island of São Tomé
What are some conservation challenges faced by the islands?
Deforestation, invasive species, and climate change
Food and Economy
What is a main ingredient in cachupa, a staple dish of São Tomé and Príncipe?
Corn
What seafood is commonly eaten on the islands?
Tuna, grouper, barracuda, and shellfish
What is a popular tropical fruit grown in São Tomé and Príncipe?
Cacao (used for chocolate)
What is one of the main agricultural exports of the country?
Cocoa beans
What is another important source of income for São Tomé and Príncipe?
Tourism
Fun Facts
What is the nickname for São Tomé and Príncipe?
"Emerald Islands"
What is the currency of São Tomé and Príncipe?
Dobra (STN)
What is a traditional drink enjoyed on the islands?
Grogue, a sugarcane liquor
What is a unique sport played in São Tomé and Príncipe?
Capoeirista, a blend of capoeira and football
What famous Portuguese poet spent time in São Tomé and Príncipe?
António Nobre
Challenge Questions
What natural phenomenon led to the formation of the islands?
Hotspot volcanism in the African Plate
What major historical event took place on Príncipe in 1502?
The discovery of the island by Portuguese explorers
What indigenous bird, once thought extinct, was rediscovered on São Tomé in 2023?
The Príncipe scops owl
What international environmental treaty did São Tomé and Príncipe sign in 2019?
The Minamata Convention on Mercury
What unique challenge does São Tomé and Príncipe face due to its small size and island location?
Vulnerability to natural disasters and economic isolation