Geography
The Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, one of Africa's smallest countries, is in the Gulf of Guinea; it consists of the islands of Sao Tome and Principe, and some islets, west of Gabon.

The capital is called Sao Tome. Santo Antonio is the main town on Principe.

The islands are part of an extinct volcanic mountain range.

The climate of Sao Tome and Principe is tropical.

Environment
As the islands are volcanic life either arrived by chance or was brought by colonists. There are few mammals on the islands.

The islands of Sao Tome and Principe are important sites for the conservation of forest birds. Birds found in Obo National Park on Sao Tome include the Sao Tome Oriole, the Sao Tome Sunbird and the Sao Tome Weaver.

Islands lying between Sao Tome and Principe are listed by Ramsar Wetlands of International Importance. Tinhosa Grande and Tinhosa Pequena support thousands of waterbirds such as the Brown Booby, Brown Gannet, Black Noddy and Sooty Tern.

Architecture
Colonial architecture can be seen in the capital. Buildings include churches, offices and houses built for the Portuguese.

Portuguese Plantation buildings were built all over Sao Tome and Principe, some with their own churches. Today, many of these buildings remain, in various states of repair.

Population
The population of Sao Tome and Principe was estimated at 223,107 in 2021.

Languages
Portuguese is the official language. Creole dialects are spoken.

Religion
The majority of the people are Christians, predominately Roman Catholics.

Food
Palm oil stew is the national dish in Sao Tome and Principe. Bean stew is also eaten.

There is a small fishing industry and seafood is plentiful.

Rice is imported. Vegetables and fruits grown include cassava, sweet potatoes, plantains, bananas, coconuts, citrus fruits, guavas, jackfruit, mangoes, papayas and pineapples.

Palm wine is produced locally. Beer, soft drinks, tea and coffee are available.

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