UNESCO inscribed the serial property “The Roças of Sao Tome and Principe: Colonial Agricultural System and Forced Migration” in 2026. Its six estates are Monte Café, Água Izé, Diogo Vaz, São João, Sundy and Belo Monte.
The property documents an organised plantation system for coffee and cacao, including agricultural land, industrial facilities, housing and social infrastructure. UNESCO highlights forced migration and forced labour from the late nineteenth to the mid-twentieth century.
UNESCO recognises Príncipe and Ilha de São Tomé as biosphere reserves. São Tomé’s designation was nominated in 2025; together the two reserves form the first whole-country biosphere reserve.
A biosphere reserve is not the same designation as a World Heritage property. Its purpose links conservation, research and sustainable development in inhabited landscapes.
Many heritage sites remain connected to communities and active uses. Ask permission, use local guides and follow site-specific rules rather than entering buildings or working areas without consent.
For status and boundaries, consult UNESCO’s official pages, which may update property records and management information.
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Content reviewed 10 October 2026. Entry, flight, health and service details can change; check current official guidance.
