Introduction: Discovering Africa’s Hidden Paradise
The first time I stepped off the plane in São Tomé, the humid air wrapped around me like a blanket, carrying the scent of cocoa and sea salt. I remember standing there, momentarily stunned by the lush green mountains rising dramatically from the Atlantic Ocean. That was seven years ago, and after multiple visits to this tiny two-island nation off Africa’s west coast, I’m still discovering new wonders. São Tomé and Príncipe remains one of Africa’s least visited countries, which is precisely what makes it so magical.
This enchanting archipelago, a former Portuguese colony and once the world’s largest cocoa producer, offers an intoxicating blend of colonial architecture, pristine beaches, virgin rainforests, and a unique Creole culture that will captivate any traveler seeking authenticity. In 2025, as sustainable tourism slowly grows here, it’s the perfect time to experience this ecological paradise before the secret gets out.
Whether you’re drawn by the promise of deserted beaches, world-class chocolate, exceptional birdwatching, or simply the allure of somewhere genuinely off the beaten path, this guide will help you navigate the islands like a seasoned visitor. I’ve made plenty of mistakes along the way (like the time I tried to hike Pico de São Tomé without a guide—don’t do this!), and I’m sharing everything I’ve learned to make your journey unforgettable.
Boa sorte! (Good luck!) as the locals say—you’re about to discover one of Africa’s most precious hidden gems.
Getting to Know São Tomé and Príncipe: Practical Essentials
Before diving into the activities and attractions, let’s cover some basics that will make your 2025 adventure smoother.
When to Visit
São Tomé and Príncipe has two distinct seasons:
- Dry season (June to September): Ideal for hiking and beach activities with less rainfall and temperatures averaging 24-27°C (75-81°F).
- Rainy season (October to May): Heavier rainfall, especially in March and April. However, this is when the islands are at their most lush.
I personally prefer visiting during May or October—these shoulder months offer a good balance of sunshine with fewer tourists and slightly lower prices.
Visa and Entry Requirements
As of 2025, most visitors need to obtain an e-visa before arrival through the official immigration portal. The process costs around 40€ and takes 3-5 business days. You’ll also need to show your yellow fever vaccination certificate upon arrival.
A new change for 2025: Visitors staying less than 15 days can now get a visa on arrival at São Tomé International Airport (TMS) for 80€, payable in euros only. I learned this the hard way when I arrived with only dollars on my last trip!
Currency and Costs
The local currency is the São Tomé and Príncipe dobra (STD), but euros are widely accepted at most hotels and tourist establishments. As of 2025, 1 euro is approximately 24.5 dobras.
| Expense | Budget Option | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (per night) | 250,000-500,000 STD (€10-20) | 1,000,000-2,500,000 STD (€40-100) | 5,000,000+ STD (€200+) |
| Meals | 50,000-100,000 STD (€2-4) | 200,000-300,000 STD (€8-12) | 500,000+ STD (€20+) |
| Transportation (taxi within São Tomé city) | 50,000-100,000 STD (€2-4) | N/A | N/A |
| Island tour (full day) | 750,000-1,000,000 STD (€30-40) | 1,250,000-2,000,000 STD (€50-80) | 2,500,000+ STD (€100+) |
Money-Saving Tip #1: ATMs can be unreliable and often run out of cash, especially on Príncipe. Bring euros in small denominations and exchange only what you need. I always keep a €100 emergency reserve hidden in my luggage.
Getting Around
Inter-island travel is by small aircraft with Afriqiyah Airways (approximately €150-200 round-trip). Book well in advance for 2025 as flights fill quickly.
On São Tomé, renting a car costs around 750,000-1,000,000 STD (€30-40) per day. I recommend Rotas de África for reliable vehicles. For Príncipe, motorcycle rentals or arranged tours are your best options as the roads are limited.
If you’re on a budget, shared taxis (táxi coletivo) run along main routes for about 25,000 STD (€1) per person. Just flag one down and tell the driver where you’re headed.
Top 25 Things to Do in São Tomé and Príncipe in 2025
1. Explore the Colonial Architecture of São Tomé City
São Tomé city, the nation’s capital, is a charming blend of Portuguese colonial buildings, colorful houses, and bustling markets. Start at Independence Square (Praça da Independência) with its pink presidential palace, then wander to the São Tomé Cathedral, built in the 16th century.
My favorite discovery is the tiny blue and white São João dos Angolares church, hidden on a side street near the central market. The local caretaker often lets visitors climb the bell tower for a panoramic view of the city and bay—just offer a small donation of 50,000 STD (€2).
2. Relax at Praia Jalé (Jalé Beach)
Located at the southern tip of São Tomé, Praia Jalé is one of my absolute favorite beaches in the world. The contrast between the dense jungle and pristine sandy shores creates a truly magical setting. Between November and February, you might witness marine turtles nesting—a breathtaking experience.
Stay overnight at the Jalé Ecolodge, where simple palm-thatched bungalows start at 1,500,000 STD (€60) per night including meals. The sound of waves crashing will lull you to sleep, and there’s no electricity after 10 pm—perfect for stargazing.
During my last visit, I spotted four different turtle species nesting in a single night with the help of a local guide (arrange through the ecolodge for 250,000 STD/€10).
Insider Tip: The road to Jalé is rough—arrange transportation through your hotel or a tour operator unless you’re comfortable with challenging driving conditions. The journey takes about 2.5 hours from São Tomé city.
3. Visit a Historic Cocoa Plantation (Roça)
The islands’ colonial history comes alive at the historic cocoa plantations known as roças. These once-grand estates are now atmospheric ruins being slowly reclaimed by jungle or thoughtfully restored as tourist accommodations.
My top recommendations:
- Roça São João – A functioning plantation where you can tour the drying houses and sample fresh cocoa. The on-site restaurant serves traditional cuisine using plantation ingredients.
- Roça Água Izé – Once the world’s largest cocoa plantation, now a haunting collection of colonial buildings being swallowed by jungle.
- Roça Sundy (Príncipe) – Beautifully restored as a luxury hotel where Einstein’s Theory of Relativity was proven during the 1919 solar eclipse.
On my second visit, I spent a night at Roça Monte Forte, sleeping in what was once the plantation owner’s house. Waking up to mist rising over the cocoa trees while sipping coffee grown just steps away was an experience I’ll never forget.
4. Hike Pico de São Tomé
Rising 2,024 meters above sea level, Pico de São Tomé is the highest point in the country. The challenging hike takes you through different ecological zones, from humid rainforest to misty cloud forest.
This is one activity where I made a critical mistake on my first visit—attempting it without a guide. After getting thoroughly lost and spending an uncomfortable night in the forest, I learned my lesson. Always hire a local guide through your hotel or an agency like Navetur-Equatour. The standard rate in 2025 is around 1,500,000 STD (€60).
The hike typically takes 6-8 hours round trip. Start early (around 5:30 am) to maximize your chances of clear views from the summit. Pack warm clothing as temperatures at the peak can drop to 15°C (59°F).
5. Sample World-Class Chocolate
São Tomé and Príncipe grows some of the finest cocoa in the world, and several excellent chocolate makers now operate on the islands. Don’t miss Claudio Corallo, an Italian master chocolatier who creates bean-to-bar chocolate that’s exported globally. His factory in São Tomé city offers tours (300,000 STD/€12) with extensive tastings.
During the tour, you’ll learn about the complete chocolate-making process and sample unusual varieties like chocolate with bits of cocoa pulp or infused with local coffee. I still dream about his 100% cocoa chocolate with no added sugar—surprisingly not bitter but complex and fruity.
For a more local experience, visit the women’s cooperative at Diogo Vaz plantation, where you can see traditional chocolate-making methods using simple equipment.
6. Snorkel Around Ilhéu das Rolas
This tiny islet off the southern tip of São Tomé straddles the equator and offers some of the archipelago’s best snorkeling opportunities. The crystal-clear waters are teeming with colorful fish, and visibility often exceeds 20 meters.
The Pestana Equador resort dominates the island, but day visitors can access the beaches and snorkeling spots for a small fee (250,000 STD/€10). Bring your own equipment or rent a set for 350,000 STD (€14).
Don’t miss the chance to stand with one foot in the northern hemisphere and one in the southern at the equator marker. Yes, it’s touristy, but I still find it thrilling every time!
7. Discover the Hidden Beaches of Príncipe
Príncipe Island feels like stepping back in time—a place where pristine beaches remain genuinely undiscovered. Reaching this smaller island requires a 35-minute flight from São Tomé, but the extra effort is richly rewarded.
My favorite beaches on Príncipe:
- Praia Banana – This crescent-shaped beach framed by palm trees became famous after featuring in a Bacardi commercial. Visit early morning for your own private paradise.
- Praia Boi – Accessible only by boat or a challenging hike, this secluded beach often has excellent snorkeling conditions.
- Praia Abade – A fishing village beach where you can watch colorful wooden boats being built using traditional methods.
On my last visit, I hired a local fisherman from Santo António (Príncipe’s only town) to take me on a beach-hopping tour for 1,000,000 STD (€40) for half a day. We stopped at five different beaches, and I didn’t see another tourist the entire time.
8. Visit Obo Natural Park
Covering approximately 30% of São Tomé and 85% of Príncipe, Obo Natural Park protects the islands’ remarkable biodiversity. The park is home to at least 28 endemic bird species, countless plants found nowhere else on Earth, and unusual amphibians like the giant sungazer frog.
Several trails offer different experiences:
- Lagoa Amelia Trail (3-4 hours round trip) – Takes you to a volcanic crater lake surrounded by primeval forest.
- Bombaim Trail (4-5 hours) – Features spectacular waterfalls and good birdwatching opportunities.
- Rio Malanza Mangrove Walk (2 hours) – An easier option with boardwalks through coastal wetlands.
Guides are mandatory in the park and can be arranged through your accommodation or the park office in São Tomé city for 750,000-1,000,000 STD (€30-40). During my hike to Lagoa Amelia, our guide pointed out medicinal plants used by locals and spotted a rare São Tomé ibis that I would have completely missed.
Money-Saving Tip #2: Join other travelers to share guide costs. Many hotels maintain a whiteboard where visitors can coordinate group excursions, cutting the price by half or more.
9. Experience Birdwatching Paradise
For birdwatchers, São Tomé and Príncipe is nothing short of paradise. With dozens of endemic species in a relatively small area, the islands offer some of the most rewarding birdwatching in Africa.
Must-see species include:
- São Tomé giant sunbird (Dreptes thomensis)
- São Tomé fiscal (Lanius newtoni) – extremely rare
- Príncipe kingfisher (Corythornis cristatus principalis)
- São Tomé shorttail (Amaurocichla bocagii)
I’m not an expert birder, but I was able to spot 15 endemic species in just three days with the help of Antonio, a knowledgeable local guide who specializes in birdwatching tours (book through STP Birding, 2,000,000 STD/€80 per day).
The best locations include the forests around Monte Café plantation, Bombaim in Obo National Park, and for serious birders, the remote forests of southwestern São Tomé where the critically endangered São Tomé grosbeak may still exist.
10. Tour the São Tomé Market
The central market in São Tomé city (Mercado Municipal) offers a vibrant immersion into local culture. The market is busiest in the morning, when fishermen bring in their overnight catch and farmers arrive with tropical fruits and vegetables.
Unlike many tourist destinations, vendors here are relaxed and won’t hassle you—perfect for photography and casual browsing. Look for unusual fruits like jackfruit, breadfruit, and the intensely fragrant jaca (a local variety of soursop).
I’ve made it a tradition to buy fresh passion fruit from a woman named Dona Maria who has had the same stall for over 30 years. She always insists on giving me an extra one “for good health” (“para boa saúde”).
At the fish section, don’t miss the peixe voador (flying fish)—a local delicacy often served grilled with a spicy sauce.
11. Learn Local Dance and Music
São Tomean music and dance reflect the islands’ unique cultural fusion of Portuguese, African, and Creole influences. The most famous style is socopé, a rhythmic dance accompanied by percussion and singing.
Tchiloli is another cultural treasure—a unique theatrical tradition blending European medieval drama with African music and dance, performed by local groups on special occasions.
For a hands-on experience, the cultural center Casa das Culturas Nicole Reis in São Tomé city offers workshops in traditional dance and drumming every Thursday evening for 350,000 STD (€14). I learned the basic steps of puíta dance there—and discovered I have absolutely no rhythm, much to the amusement of the local instructors!
If you’re lucky, your visit might coincide with the annual Auto de Floripes festival on August 10th in the town of Príncipe, a colorful celebration dating back centuries.
12. Take a Coffee Plantation Tour
While cocoa gets most of the attention, São Tomé also produces exceptional coffee. The volcanic soil and microclimate of the mountain regions create ideal growing conditions.
Monte Café plantation, established in 1858, offers fascinating tours that follow the journey from bean to cup. For 500,000 STD (€20), you’ll see the growing, harvesting, and processing methods, finishing with a tasting session.
The coffee has distinctive floral notes with hints of citrus—I now have beans shipped to me twice a year because I can’t find anything similar elsewhere. During harvest season (October-November), you can try your hand at picking the red coffee cherries alongside local workers.
If you visit during the processing season, the air is filled with the intoxicating aroma of drying coffee beans—an unforgettable sensory experience.
13. Bathe in Porto Alegre’s Thermal Waters
Near the southern town of Porto Alegre, natural hot springs bubble up from the volcanic bedrock. These mineral-rich waters are believed by locals to have healing properties.
The main spring has been developed into a simple bathing area with stone pools of varying temperatures. The setting is rustic but magical, surrounded by jungle with steam rising through the trees.
The caretaker charges 125,000 STD (€5) for entry, and it’s worth bringing a picnic to enjoy after your soak. I’ve found early morning (before 9 am) or late afternoon (after 4 pm) offers the most tranquil experience.
My sore hiking muscles found genuine relief after a 30-minute soak in these 39°C (102°F) waters—whether it’s the minerals or just the heat, it works wonders!
14. Go Whale Watching (July-October)
From July to October, humpback whales migrate through the waters around São Tomé and Príncipe to breed and give birth. This offers one of Africa’s least-known but most spectacular whale watching opportunities.
Boat tours operate from both islands, with higher success rates from Príncipe due to the deeper waters close to shore. A half-day excursion costs around 1,500,000-2,000,000 STD (€60-80) through operators like Club Maxel.
During my September visit, we spotted seven different whales, including a mother with her calf breaching repeatedly just 50 meters from our boat. The lack of commercial whale watching crowds means the animals appear more relaxed and natural in their behavior.
Money-Saving Tip #3: If your budget is tight, head to Praia Lagarto on São Tomé’s west coast during whale season. From the elevated viewpoint, you can often spot whales from shore for free. Bring binoculars if you have them!
15. Climb Pico Papagaio on Príncipe
Príncipe’s distinctive peak, Pico Papagaio (Parrot Peak), offers a more accessible hiking challenge than Pico de São Tomé. The 700-meter tall volcanic formation can be climbed in 3-4 hours round trip and rewards hikers with spectacular 360-degree views of the entire island.
The trail winds through primary rainforest with chances to spot endemic birds and butterflies. Unlike some forest hikes where dense vegetation limits vistas, Pico Papagaio offers continuous panoramic views as you ascend.
A guide is necessary and costs around 750,000 STD (€30). Arrange through your accommodation or the park headquarters in Santo António. Start early (7 am) to avoid the midday heat and afternoon clouds that often obscure the summit.
On my climb, we encountered a troop of mona monkeys—introduced centuries ago but now integrated into the island’s ecosystem—feeding on wild mangoes near the trail.
16. Experience a Traditional Fishing Village
To understand daily life in São Tomé and Príncipe, visit one of the traditional fishing communities that dot the coastlines. Santana on São Tomé’s east coast or Praia Abade on Príncipe offer authentic glimpses into the fishing traditions that sustain many islanders.
In these villages, you’ll see fishermen repairing their colorful wooden boats, mending nets, and bringing in their catches. The traditional canoes (canoas) are carved from a single massive tree trunk, a practice dating back centuries.
In Santana, I befriended a fisherman named João who invited me to join a morning fishing expedition. We set out at 5 am in his hand-carved boat, returning four hours later with a catch of flying fish and red snapper. His wife then showed me how to prepare calulu, a traditional fish stew with palm oil and local vegetables.
When visiting fishing villages, consider purchasing fresh fish directly from the fishermen—you’ll get exceptional seafood at local prices while supporting the community.
17. Savor Local Cuisine
São Tomean cuisine blends Portuguese techniques with African ingredients and flavors, creating distinctive dishes you won’t find elsewhere.
Must-try local specialties include:
- Calulu – A rich stew made with fish, vegetables, and palm oil
- Jogo – Hearty bean stew with plantains and smoked fish
- Fruta-pão – Breadfruit prepared various ways, often fried or in stews
- Banana pão – Plantains cooked with cinnamon, a common breakfast dish
- Grogue – Local sugarcane spirit, often infused with herbs or fruit
For an authentic meal in São Tomé city, I recommend Restaurante Dona Teté, where a generous portion of calulu with rice costs 200,000 STD (€8). The restaurant has no menu—the owner simply tells you what’s fresh that day.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try morcela, a blood sausage with local spices that’s surprisingly delicious despite its intimidating appearance.
18. Photograph Remarkable Colonial Architecture
Beyond the capital city, the islands are dotted with photogenic colonial buildings in various states of romantic decay. For photographers, these structures offer endless creative possibilities.
My favorite architectural spots include:
- São Nicolau Fortress – A 16th-century structure with panoramic views of São Tomé city
- Roça Agostinho Neto – A once-grand estate with an impressive hospital building and symmetrical worker quarters
- Roça Belo Monte (Príncipe) – Atmospheric ruins being slowly reclaimed by jungle
- Igreja da Conceição – A yellow church in São Tomé city with elegant arches
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography. During my visits, I’ve found local people generally don’t mind being photographed, but it’s always respectful to ask permission first—“Posso tirar uma foto?” (Can I take a photo?).
19. Explore Boca de Inferno
The dramatic coastal formation known as Boca de Inferno (Hell’s Mouth) on São Tomé’s west coast is a must-see natural attraction. This series of blowholes and caves has been carved by the relentless Atlantic waves smashing against volcanic rock.
When the tide is high and the sea rough, water erupts spectacularly through the blowholes, creating impressive geysers of spray. The surrounding landscape of jagged black rocks contrasting with turquoise water makes for dramatic photographs.
There’s no entrance fee, and the site is easily accessible by car or taxi, located about 20 minutes north of São Tomé city. Wear sturdy shoes, as the rocks can be slippery, and never turn your back on the ocean—rogue waves occasionally sweep across the seemingly safe areas.
I learned this lesson the hard way when my camera bag got drenched by an unexpected surge. Now I keep valuables in waterproof bags when visiting!
20. Stay in an Eco-lodge on Príncipe
Príncipe island has pioneered sustainable tourism with several remarkable eco-lodges that offer luxury with minimal environmental impact. The island was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2012, and accommodations have been developed with conservation as a priority.
The flagship property is Sundy Praia, where luxury tented villas blend seamlessly into the forest edge. Starting at €500 per night, it’s a splurge but offers an unparalleled experience.
For a more moderate budget, Bom Bom Island Resort offers comfortable bungalows from €200, while Roça Paciência provides a plantation experience from €80.
During my stay at Roça Paciência, I participated in their sea turtle monitoring program, helping staff count tracks and observe nesting females—an unforgettable experience that directly supports conservation work.
Sustainability Tip: Most eco-lodges on Príncipe employ local staff and source food locally, drastically reducing their carbon footprint. By staying at these properties, you’re supporting a genuine model of sustainable tourism that benefits local communities.
21. Celebrate São Tomé and Príncipe Independence Day
If you can time your visit for July 12th, you’ll experience the islands’ biggest annual celebration—Independence Day. The nation gained freedom from Portugal on this date in 1975, and the anniversary is marked with colorful parades, music, dance, and feasting.
The main celebrations take place in São Tomé city, particularly around Independence Square, with military parades in the morning followed by cultural performances throughout the day. In the evening, impromptu street parties spring up around the city, with locals sharing food and drinks with visitors.
During the 2023 celebrations, I was pulled into a dance circle by a group of grandmothers who insisted on teaching me traditional moves. Despite my terrible dancing, they kept cheering “Muito bem, muito bem!” (Very good!) with infectious enthusiasm.
Be aware that many businesses close for the holiday, so plan accordingly for meals and activities.
22. Discover the Blue Lagoon (Lagoa Azul)
On the northern coast of São Tomé, Lagoa Azul (Blue Lagoon) is a sheltered natural pool with crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling. Protected by a coral reef, the lagoon is calm even when the open ocean is rough.
The diversity of marine life here is impressive—colorful parrotfish, moray eels, sea urchins, and occasionally sea turtles. Bring your own snorkeling gear or rent equipment in São Tomé city before heading out.
The adjacent beach, Praia dos Tamarindos, offers shade under enormous tamarind trees, making this a perfect day trip destination. Pack a picnic or purchase grilled fish from local vendors who often set up small stalls on busy days.
To reach Lagoa Azul, take a taxi from São Tomé city (about 750,000 STD/€30 round trip including waiting time) or join an organized north coast tour.
23. Visit the São Sebastião Museum
Housed in a 16th-century fortress, the São Sebastião Museum in São Tomé city provides fascinating insights into the islands’ complex history. The collection includes artifacts from the colonial period, the slave trade era, and the independence movement.
The museum is small but well-curated, with exhibitions on traditional fishing techniques, religious practices, and the evolution of the unique Santomean Creole culture. Information is presented in Portuguese and English.
Entrance costs 125,000 STD (€5), and guided tours are available for an additional 125,000 STD. The guide I had, Manuel, shared personal family stories that brought the exhibits to life—his grandfather had worked on one of the major cocoa plantations during the colonial era.
Allow about 1-2 hours for your visit, and don’t miss the rooftop viewpoint for panoramic vistas of the bay and city.
24. Take a Chocolate-Making Workshop
Beyond just tasting chocolate, you can learn to make your own from bean to bar in São Tomé. The CECAQ-11 cocoa cooperative in the town of Guadalupe offers half-day workshops where you’ll roast, shell, grind, and temper chocolate using traditional methods.
The workshop costs 750,000 STD (€30) per person and includes all materials plus chocolate to take home. It’s fascinating to see how much work goes into producing a single bar of chocolate!
What makes this experience special is learning directly from local women who have perfected these techniques over generations. They’ll teach you how to identify high-quality cocoa beans by sight and smell—knowledge I’ve used to impress friends at chocolate tastings back home.
Advance booking is required; contact the cooperative through your hotel or directly via their Facebook page.
25. Witness Baby Turtles Hatching
From December to March, you can witness one of nature’s most heartwarming spectacles—baby sea turtles making their perilous journey from nest to ocean. Several beaches on both islands are important nesting sites for endangered marine turtles.
The best locations to witness hatchings include:
- Praia Jalé (São Tomé)
- Praia Grande (Príncipe)
- Praia Inhame (São Tomé)
Several conservation projects run by NGOs monitor the nests and protect them from poachers. You can join their patrols (usually for a donation of 500,000 STD/€20) to help release hatchlings safely.
During my last visit in February, I helped release over 100 olive ridley turtle hatchlings at Praia Jalé. Watching these tiny creatures scramble determinedly toward the waves while avoiding predatory birds is both nerve-wracking and profoundly moving.
Responsible Tourism Tip: Never use flashlights or camera flashes around nesting turtles or hatchlings, as artificial light disorients them. Only visit nesting beaches with authorized guides who understand how to minimize disturbance.
Conclusion: Making the Most of Your São Tomé and Príncipe Adventure
After seven years and multiple visits to this enchanting archipelago, I’m still discovering new wonders with each trip. São Tomé and Príncipe offers a rare combination of pristine nature, rich culture, and genuine hospitality that becomes more precious as other destinations succumb to overtourism.
As the islands gradually open to more visitors in 2025, they maintain a delicate balance between development and preservation. By traveling responsibly and supporting local businesses, you can help ensure this paradise remains intact for future generations.
5-Step Action Plan for Your 2025 Visit
- Book flights early – The limited flight options to São Tomé fill quickly, especially during European holiday periods. TAP Portugal and STP Airways are your main options, with connections typically through Lisbon or Accra.
- Arrange accommodations strategically – Spend at least 3-4 nights in São Tomé city, 2-3 nights in southern São Tomé (Porto Alegre or Praia Jalé), and if possible, 4-5 nights on Príncipe for a comprehensive experience.
- Pre-book your inter-island flights – The small planes between São Tomé and Príncipe have limited capacity and often sell out weeks in advance, especially during high season.
- Learn basic Portuguese phrases – While many in the tourism industry speak some English or French, a few words in Portuguese go a long way. “Bom dia” (good morning), “obrigado/obrigada” (thank you), and “quanto custa?” (how much?) will serve you well.
- Pack strategically – Bring reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, a good hat, and quick-dry clothing. Consider including some small gifts for local children (educational items like pencils and notebooks are ideal) and any specific medications you might need, as pharmacies have limited supplies.
Most importantly, come with an open heart and a flexible attitude. Like many aspects of life in tropical Africa, things in São Tomé and Príncipe move at their own pace—often referred to as leve-leve (slowly-slowly). Embrace this rhythm rather than fighting it, and you’ll discover the true joy of these islands.
As they say in São Tomé, “A pressa é inimiga da perfeição”—haste is the enemy of perfection. Take your time, savor each experience, and allow yourself to be transformed by this extraordinary corner of our world.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting São Tomé and Príncipe
Is São Tomé and Príncipe safe for tourists?
Yes, São Tomé and Príncipe is one of Africa’s safest destinations with very low crime rates. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare. As anywhere, take common-sense precautions with valuables, especially in São Tomé city’s market areas. The greatest risks are environmental—strong ocean currents, slippery hiking trails, and occasional tropical diseases like malaria.
Do I need a visa to visit São Tomé and Príncipe?
Most nationalities require a visa to visit. As of 2025, e-visas can be obtained online through the official immigration portal for approximately 40€. The process takes 3-5 business days. Alternatively, visitors staying less than 15 days can now get a visa on arrival at São Tomé International Airport for 80€, payable in euros only.
What health precautions should I take?
Malaria is present on both islands, so consult your doctor about antimalarial medication. Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for entry. I also recommend vaccinations for hepatitis A and typhoid, plus bringing a basic medical kit including diarrhea medication, antihistamines, and plenty of insect repellent. Travel insurance with good medical coverage and evacuation is essential, as local healthcare facilities are limited.
What’s the best time of year to visit?
The dry season (June to September) offers the most reliable weather for outdoor activities. For turtle watching, visit between November and February. Whale watching is best from July to October. I particularly recommend May and October as ideal months that balance good weather with fewer tourists and slightly lower prices.
How do I get between São Tomé and Príncipe islands?
The only practical way to travel between the islands is by air. Afriqiyah Airways operates daily flights (35 minutes) costing approximately €150-200 round-trip. Flights should be booked well in advance as they frequently sell out, especially during high season.
Is São Tomé and Príncipe expensive?
By African standards, yes. Limited transportation options and the need to import many goods make this a relatively expensive destination. Budget travelers can manage on €70-100 per day with basic accommodation and local food. Mid-range travelers should budget €150-250 daily, while luxury experiences can exceed €500 per day, especially on Príncipe.
What languages are spoken?
Portuguese is the official language. Many locals also speak Forro, Angolar, or Principense—Creole languages that developed during the colonial period. In tourist areas, you’ll find some English and French speakers, but learning basic Portuguese phrases is highly recommended.
Can I use credit cards?
Credit card acceptance is limited to major hotels and some restaurants in São Tomé city. For most transactions, you’ll need cash. ATMs are available in São Tomé city but can be unreliable and often run out of money. Bring euros in small denominations, which are widely accepted and easily exchanged.
Is there good internet connectivity?
Internet access has improved significantly since 2023 when a new undersea cable reached the islands. Most hotels and guesthouses now offer WiFi, though speeds are modest. For mobile connectivity, purchase a local SIM card from CST or UNITEL upon arrival (approximately 250,000 STD/€10 with some data included).
What should I pack that I might not think of?
Bring a good headlamp or flashlight (power outages are common), reef-safe sunscreen (difficult to find locally), a dry bag for boat trips, binoculars for wildlife watching, and a Portuguese phrasebook. I also recommend bringing any specific foods or snacks you can’t live without, as options are limited outside major hotels.
References and Further Reading
- Lonely Planet: São Tomé & Príncipe – Comprehensive travel information and practical tips
- Official São Tomé and Príncipe Tourism Website – Latest information on entry requirements and attractions
- World Bank: São Tomé and Príncipe Economic Overview – Background on the country’s development and challenges
- BirdLife International: São Tomé and Príncipe – Information on endemic bird species and conservation efforts
- HBD Príncipe Conservation Projects – Details on ecotourism and sustainability initiatives on Príncipe
- IUCN Report on São Tomé and Príncipe Biodiversity – Academic resource on the islands’ unique ecosystems
- Atlas Obscura: Roça Sundy – Historical background on Einstein’s Theory of Relativity expedition
- Sea Turtle Conservation in São Tomé and Príncipe – Information on nesting sites and protection programs
- Condé Nast Traveler: São Tomé and Príncipe’s Sustainable Tourism Model – Feature article on eco-friendly development
- BBC Travel: Príncipe’s Conservation Vision – In-depth look at the island’s environmental initiatives
- Claudio Corallo Chocolate Blog – Stories and information about São Tomé’s chocolate production
- Wildlife Guide to São Tomé and Príncipe – Comprehensive overview of the islands’ fauna and flora