São Tomé e Príncipe comprises two main islands (Saõ Tomé and Príncipe) and the islets Cabras, Gago Coutinho, Pedras Tinhosas and Rolas. These lie approximately 200km (120 miles) off the west coast of Gabon, in the Gulf of Guinea. The country is rugged and has a great deal of forest cover and few natural resources. The islands lie on an alignment of once-active volcanoes, with rugged landscapes, dense forests and virgin, palm-fringed beaches. These islands provide unspoiled beauty and isolation from the world now rarely found anywhere else. The history of the islands is dominated by the slave trade and slave-worked plantations. The town of São Tomé is picturesque, with colonial Portuguese architecture and attractive parks. There are several restaurants in the capital. Reservations are nearly always required, not for lack of space but to allow the proprietor to obtain sufficient food in advance. Grilled fish and chicken are popular. Most dishes are highly spiced.

1001 sq km (386.5 sq miles).

161,000 (official estimate 2003).

137.5 per sq km (census of 2001).

São Tomé.

São Tomé e Príncipe comprises two main islands (Saõ Tomé and Príncipe) and the islets Cabras, Gago Coutinho, Pedras Tinhosas and Ilheu dos Rolas (which is crossed by the Equator line). These lie approximately 200km (120 miles) off the west coast of Gabon, in the Gulf of Guinea. The country is rugged and has a great deal of forest cover and few natural resources. The landscape is varied, combining mountains, tropical forest and beaches.

Republic. Gained independence from Portugal in 1975. Head of State: President Fradique de Menezes since 2001. Head of Government: Prime Minister Maria do Carmo Silveira (appointed June 2005).

Portuguese is the official language. Creole is also spoken. Some English is spoken, but French is more common.

Roman Catholic majority (82 per cent), with a number of other Christian denominations also represented.

220 volts AC.

The Portuguese influence is very strong. People are friendly and courteous. Every greeting is accompanied by a handshake. Normal social courtesies should be observed. Alcohol is available and smoking is acceptable. Photography: Visitors wishing to photograph local people should ask permission first.