Makaira Lodge

São Tomé & Príncipe


Here lies the great secret of Príncipe lodging. During research Makaira Lodge had just opened, and was putting the finishing touches on its dipping pool. The lodge is brilliantly simple: six high-end safari tents on a beautiful secluded beach. The canvas tents are spacious and furnished with all electrics, private bathrooms and thoughtful design flourishes, beginning with the canopy beds.

On the surface the lodge is aimed at people interested in deep-sea fishing. Look deeper and this is the coolest place to stay on the island, for anyone, particularly when value for money is factored in. Truly romantic, this little heaven is where you should have had your honeymoon, had you known. It's also half the price of the competition.

Admittedly, the road down to the beach will dislodge a vertebra, but the lodge's Polaris ranger vehicles turn the trip into an adventure. While the kitchen remains an unknown at this stage, and while you must like a remote location, everything else suggests a top-choice listing in the making.

Of course, if you like deep-sea fishing, particularly for that ultimate catch, the Atlantic Blue Marlin, you are home. This resort has the best boats in the country. And it can certainly reach the Baía das Agulhas for a bit of sightseeing. Email direct. Airport pickup.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby São Tomé & Príncipe attractions

1. Praia Banana

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Once the subject of a world-famous Bacardi advertisement (you'll remember it when you see it), this picture-perfect tropical beach is located on the…

2. Praia Macaco

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An excellent swimming beach, this long and pretty stretch of golden sand contains the ruins of a resort that never opened, tucked beneath the trees. It's…

3. Praia Boi

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A postcard tropical beach, with turquoise water, swaying palms and no people. You will need to bring your own food, but it is perfect for a picnic…

4. Roça Sundy

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5. Baía das Agulhas

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The spectacular Bay of Spires is not just Príncipe's top attraction, but STP's as well. It's best seen from the water, where the postcard view of the…