Geoheritage of the Príncipe UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve (West Africa): Selected Geosites

Abstract

Considered by many to be one of the last hidden treasures, the Príncipe Island, off the coast of west-central Africa, is part of the twin-island state of São Tomé and Príncipe—the second smallest country in Africa. The islands are known as the “Galápagos of Africa” due to the high number of endemic plant and animal species, especially vascular plants, mollusks, insects, birds, reptiles, and bats. They are a melting pot of influences from different cultures and have a unique and authentic character in terms of language, culture, gastronomy, traditions, and geology. The Príncipe Island is 30.4 My old, being the oldest volcanic island of the Cameroon Volcanic Line located at the Gulf of Guinea (West Africa). It has an area of 142 km2 and a population of only about 8420 people. Rainforest covers the island’s basaltic peaks and slopes, cascading down to spectacular deserted beaches. In 2012, the Príncipe Island was declared UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. However, there is a great lack of knowledge about its geodiversity and geological heritage. The aim of this work is to describe the geoheritage of the Príncipe Island based on seven selected geosites that represent the major geological characteristics of the island by interconnecting each episode of its formation with the observable products in outcropping. The resulting narrative makes it possible to support educational activities and geotourism initiatives that are fundamental to the promotion of sustainable development in this tiny African country. By integrating the geodiversity dimension to the biodiversity dimension, this research intends to display a holistic vision of the natural heritage of the Príncipe Island and to contribute to assist United Nation’s goals regarding Small Island Developing States.