Ilhéu das Rolas
Água Grande
Ilhéu das Rolas, also known as Ilheu Gago Coutinho, is a small islet located in São Tomé and Príncipe, lying directly on the Equator just off the southern tip of São Tomé Island. The islet reaches a maximum elevation of 96 meters and is accessible only by ferry from Ponta Baleia on São Tomé. It is part of the Caué District and had a population of 76 as of 2012. The island features a historic lighthouse built in 1929, which stands at a focal height of 106 meters and has a range of 12 nautical miles. Ilhéu das Rolas is renowned for its rich flora and fauna, including several endemic species such as Greeff's giant gecko, the São Tomé prinia, the São Tomé weaver, and unique frog species like Phrynobatrachus leveleve and Schistometopum thomense. The islet hosts a small resort, Pestana Equador, catering to visitors who come to experience its natural beauty and the novelty of standing on the Equator line. Its beaches, such as Praia de Santo António, and natural features like the Furnas blowhole add to its scenic appeal.
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Consejo: Visitors should plan their trip to Ilhéu das Rolas by taking the ferry from Ponta Baleia on São Tomé Island. The best time to visit is during the dry season for optimal beach and wildlife viewing conditions. It is advisable to book accommodations at the Pestana Equador resort in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. No specific ticketing is required for the islet, but ferry schedules should be checked beforehand. Visitors can enjoy walking along the equatorial line marked on the island and exploring its endemic wildlife.
Datos interesantes
- •Ilhéu das Rolas is one of the few places worldwide that the Equator passes through land, allowing visitors to stand on the line dividing the northern and southern hemispheres.
- •The islet is home to several endemic species, including Greeff's giant gecko and unique frog species not found elsewhere.
- •The lighthouse on Ilhéu das Rolas was built in 1929 and has a focal height of 106 meters, visible up to 12 nautical miles away.
Historia
Ilhéu das Rolas was documented as "Illie de Rolle" in a 1665 map by Johannes Vingboons and later as "I.
de Rolle" in a 1780 map by A.
Dalrymple.
Between 1915 and 1918, Portuguese Navy officer and navigator Gago Coutinho led a geodesic mission to São Tomé, during which he established the islet’s position on the Equator through precise astronomical and geodetic measurements.
This work was published in 1919 and recognized as the first comprehensive geodesic study in the Portuguese colonies.
The lighthouse on the islet was constructed in 1929 and remains a significant navigational aid.
Guía del lugar
Equator Line Marker
A marked line on the islet where the Equator passes, allowing visitors to stand with one foot in the northern hemisphere and the other in the southern hemisphere. This unique geographical feature draws many tourists interested in geography and natural wonders.
Ilhéu das Rolas Lighthouse1929
Constructed in 1929, this lighthouse stands 106 meters above sea level and provides a navigational range of 12 nautical miles. It is an important maritime landmark for vessels navigating the surrounding waters.
Pestana Equador Resort
A small resort located on the islet that offers accommodation and amenities for visitors looking to experience the island’s natural beauty and proximity to the Equator.
