The Rocas
Explore the Historic “Roças” – São Tomé’s Legendary Cocoa Plantations
São Tomé and Príncipe, once known as the "Chocolate Islands," boasts a rich history of cocoa cultivation through its "Roças"—colonial-era plantations that shaped the island’s economy and culture. These majestic estates provide a unique opportunity for travelers from the Asia-Pacific region to experience the heritage, flavors, and beauty of São Tomé’s cocoa industry.
What Are the Roças?
The Roças (plantations) were built during Portuguese colonial rule to cultivate cocoa and coffee. Today, many have been restored as eco-tourism sites, hotels, and cultural centers, offering visitors an authentic journey through time.
Top Cocoa Roças to Visit
1. Roça Agostinho Neto (The Grand Cocoa Estate) - The largest and most historic cocoa plantation in São Tomé & Explore colonial architecture, drying terraces, and old railway tracks used for transporting cocoa.
2. Roça São João (Cocoa & Gastronomy) - A working cocoa farm transformed into a boutique guesthouse and culinary retreat & Enjoy farm-to-table dining featuring local cocoa-based dishes.
3. Roça Monte Café (Coffee & Cocoa Fusion) - Famous for both cocoa and coffee production & Visit the Coffee Museum and see traditional drying and roasting methods.
4. Roça Sundy (Príncipe Island) - The site of Einstein’s 1919 solar eclipse experiment, proving the theory of relativity & Now a luxury eco-lodge, where guests can experience cocoa farming and nature.
Why Visit São Tomé’s Cocoa Roças?
Taste Premium Organic Chocolate – Try handcrafted, fair-trade chocolates made from São Tomé’s famous cocoa.
Learn the Bean-to-Bar Process – See how cocoa is harvested, fermented, and processed into rich chocolate.
Explore Colonial History & Culture – Walk through grand estates, abandoned buildings, and vibrant local communities.
Stay in a Plantation Lodge – Experience rustic eco-lodges surrounded by lush cocoa forests.
Capture Stunning Landscapes – Rolling hills, towering trees, and endless cocoa fields create picturesque views.
Getting There & Best Time to Visit
The Roças are scattered across São Tomé Island & Príncipe, with many just a short drive from São Tomé City.
Best time to visit: June–September (harvest season, cooler weather) & December–February.
Experience the Sweet Heritage of São Tomé’s Cocoa Plantations!
Whether you’re a chocolate lover, history enthusiast, or nature explorer, visiting the Roças offers an unforgettable journey into São Tomé’s cocoa legacy.
Plan Your Trip & Discover the Chocolate Islands! 🇸🇹