Roça Sundy

The Sada – as called by the locals – is one of the most beautiful but critically endangered species that calls the beaches of Príncipe home. For years, these turtles were hunted for their meat and their stunning shells, pushing them to the brink of extinction. However, thanks to the work of Fundação Príncipe (supported by HBD Principe), the narrative has flipped from exploitation to protection. Former poachers are often retrained as guardians, patrolling the beaches to ensure safe nesting for the Hawksbill and Green turtles. Today, Príncipe is celebrated as a vital sanctuary, proving that when local communities are empowered, nature bounces back.