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Ultimate 2025 Cheat Sheet for Sao Tome and Principe: An Insider’s Guide to Africa’s Island Paradise

The ultimate 2025 cheat sheet for Sao Tome and Principe with insider tips on getting around, budget accommodations, hidden beaches, and local cuisine. Learn from my mistakes and discover this African paradise like a seasoned traveler.

Introduction: Why Sao Tome and Principe Should Be Your Next Adventure

The first time I stepped off the plane at São Tomé International Airport (TMS), I was overwhelmed by the humidity that instantly clung to my skin. I remember thinking, “What have I gotten myself into?” But that apprehension quickly dissolved when I caught my first glimpse of the lush volcanic peaks rising from the Atlantic Ocean. Four visits later, I’m still discovering hidden corners of this magical two-island nation, Africa’s second-smallest country. I’ve made plenty of mistakes (like the time I tried to pay for everything with euros, only to find myself stranded without dobras at a remote beach), but these missteps have made me fall even deeper in love with São Tomé and Príncipe.

This guide isn’t your typical tourist pamphlet. It’s the cheat sheet I wish someone had handed me before my first visit—filled with hard-earned wisdom about navigating local customs, finding the best beaches that don’t appear on Instagram, and eating like a local for a fraction of resort prices. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, nature enthusiast, or simply looking to disconnect from the digital world, São Tomé and Príncipe offers an authenticity that’s increasingly rare in our heavily-touristed world.

Essential Travel Information for 2025

Getting There and Entry Requirements

Flying into São Tomé International Airport (TMS) has become slightly easier in 2025, with new connections through Lisbon (TAP Air Portugal), Accra (Ghana Airways), and Libreville (Afrijet). I’ve found the Lisbon route most reliable, though it’s typically the most expensive. A lesser-known option is flying through Gabon on Afrijet, which can save you upwards of €200 if you’re flexible with dates.

As of 2025, most nationalities need a visa to enter, which can be obtained in advance through the Embassy of São Tomé and Príncipe or through the new e-visa system (launched in late 2024). The e-visa costs 30€ and takes about 3-5 business days to process. You’ll also need:

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Return/onward ticket
  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate (strictly enforced since 2023)

Money-saving tip: If you’re staying longer than two weeks, consider getting a multiple-entry visa (50€) rather than a single-entry (30€), as it allows for potential side trips to nearby countries and is valid for 90 days.

Currency and Money Matters

The local currency is the dobra (STD), and the exchange rate as of early 2025 is approximately 1 EUR = 24 STD. Unlike my first disastrous trip, I now always exchange some money at the airport upon arrival. While major hotels and upscale restaurants accept credit cards (with a 3-5% surcharge), most of the island operates on cash.

ATMs are available in São Tomé city, but they’re often empty or offline. I’ve learned to bring euros in small denominations (€5, €10, €20) to exchange at banks or authorized exchange offices. Never exchange money with street vendors, no matter how attractive their rates seem—I lost nearly €100 this way on my second trip.

Expense Budget Option (STD) Mid-range Option (STD) Luxury Option (STD)
Accommodation (per night) 300-700 1,000-2,500 3,000-8,000
Meal 100-200 300-500 800+
Local transport (taxi) 50-100 150-250 300-500 (private hire)
Boat to Príncipe (one way) 1,200 (ferry) N/A 2,500 (flight)

Best Time to Visit

São Tomé and Príncipe has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons:

  • Dry season (June to September): Less rain, lower humidity, ideal for hiking and beach activities
  • Rainy season (October to May): Frequent short downpours, lush landscapes, fewer tourists

I’ve visited during both seasons, and honestly, I prefer the shoulder months of May and October. You’ll catch some rain, but the tourist numbers are lower, prices drop by 15-20%, and the islands are at their most vibrant green. If you’re set on perfect beach weather, July and August are your best bet, though be prepared to book accommodations 3-4 months in advance as this is peak season.

For wildlife enthusiasts, turtle nesting season runs from November to February, while whale watching is best from July to October. Bird watching is excellent year-round, with over 140 species including 28 endemic ones.

Navigation and Transportation Guide

Getting Around São Tomé Island

The main island is only about 50km long and 30km wide, but getting around can be challenging due to limited public transportation and sometimes poor road conditions. Here are your options:

Renting a Car

Renting a car gives you the most freedom to explore. Rates start around 40€/day for a basic vehicle. I recommend Roca Rent-a-Car for their well-maintained vehicles and roadside assistance. An International Driving Permit is technically required, but I’ve never been asked to show one.

Insider tip: Gas stations outside the capital can run dry unexpectedly. I always fill up in São Tomé city even if my tank is half-full, and I carry a small emergency container with 5 liters in the trunk.

Taxis and Motorcycle Taxis

Taxis in São Tomé city are relatively inexpensive—a ride across town costs about 50-100 STD (2-4€). For shorter distances, motorcycle taxis (“motoqueiros”) are ubiquitous and cost around 25-50 STD. Always negotiate the price before getting in, and don’t be afraid to walk away if the price seems inflated for tourists. My go-to phrase is “Isso é muito caro, amigo” (That’s too expensive, friend) which usually leads to a more reasonable rate.

Public Transportation

Collective taxis and minibuses (“colectivos”) run along main routes and are extremely budget-friendly at 10-30 STD per ride. They don’t leave until full, so prepare for a potentially long wait and cramped quarters. This is where you’ll have the most authentic local interactions—like when an elderly woman insisted on sharing her jackfruit with me during a particularly delayed journey to Santana.

Inter-Island Travel to Príncipe

Príncipe is the smaller, more remote island, and absolutely worth the journey. You have two options:

  1. Flight: STP Airways operates daily flights (approximately 35 minutes) between São Tomé and Príncipe for around 2,500 STD (100€) each way. Book at least a month in advance during high season.
  2. Ferry: The ferry Príncipe operates twice weekly (Wednesday and Saturday) and takes 6-8 hours depending on sea conditions. At 1,200 STD (50€) each way, it’s the budget option, but be prepared for potentially rough seas. I took the ferry on my third visit and was seasick for most of the journey despite taking medication!

Accommodation Insights: Where to Stay in 2025

São Tomé City and Surroundings

Most visitors base themselves in or near the capital for at least part of their stay. Here are my tried-and-tested recommendations:

Budget Options (Under 700 STD/30€ per night)

  • Residencial Avenida: Simple but clean rooms in the heart of the city. The owner, Dona Maria, has become a friend over my repeated stays and offers invaluable local advice. She’ll even prepare breakfast with fresh tropical fruits from her garden if you ask nicely.
  • Pensão Residential Santo António: Located near the central market, this family-run guesthouse offers basic rooms with fans (no AC) but makes up for it with incredibly friendly service and home-cooked meals available on request.

Mid-range Options (1,000-2,500 STD/40-100€ per night)

  • Omali Lodge: A quiet oasis just 10 minutes from the airport with a lovely pool, restaurant, and comfortable rooms with AC. Their breakfast buffet featuring local jams and tropical fruits is worth the stay alone.
  • Hotel Praia: Located on a small beach just outside the city center, this hotel offers good value with sea view rooms, a restaurant, and friendly service.

Luxury Options (3,000+ STD/120€+ per night)

  • Pestana São Tomé: The island’s premier hotel with all the expected amenities: pool, spa, restaurant, and bar. Rooms have stunning ocean views, though I find the atmosphere a bit impersonal compared to smaller properties.
  • Ilhéu das Rolas Resort: Located on a tiny island off the southern tip of São Tomé, this resort sits directly on the equator. It’s remote and requires a boat transfer, but the location is unbeatable for those seeking isolation.

Money-saving hack: Many guesthouses offer significant discounts (20-30% off) for stays of a week or longer. On my last trip, I negotiated a 25% discount at Residencial Avenida simply by booking directly and paying in cash upfront.

Príncipe Island Accommodation

Príncipe has fewer options but some truly special places to stay:

  • Sundy Praia: Luxury tented villas on a pristine beach. Astronomically expensive but utterly magical.
  • Roça Belo Monte: A restored colonial plantation house with stunning views and a sense of history.
  • Pensão Residential D. Telésia: The most affordable option on Príncipe, offering simple rooms and authentic local hospitality in Santo António, the island’s only town.

Unforgettable Experiences: What to Do and See

The Best Beaches (Including Hidden Gems)

São Tomé and Príncipe boasts some of Africa’s most pristine beaches, many of which you’ll have entirely to yourself. Here are my favorites after exploring dozens across both islands:

On São Tomé:

  • Praia Jalé: Remote southern beach with turtle nesting sites. Visit between November and February for a chance to see nesting turtles or hatchlings.
  • Praia Piscina: Natural swimming pool protected by volcanic rocks. Best at low tide when the pool is calm and clear.
  • Praia Micondó: My absolute favorite. It requires a 25-minute hike through cocoa plantations, but you’re rewarded with a pristine crescent beach backed by palm trees. I’ve never seen another person here in four visits!
  • Praia dos Tamarindos: Close to the city but often overlooked by tourists. Great for a quick dip if you’re short on time.

On Príncipe:

  • Praia Banana: The poster child of STP’s beaches, famously featured in a Bacardi commercial. The curved golden sand beach backed by palms is as beautiful as the photos suggest.
  • Praia Boi: Accessible only by boat or a challenging hike, this beach often has excellent snorkeling conditions.
  • Hidden gem – Praia Abade: An old whaling station beach with dark volcanic sand and fascinating ruins. The local fishermen might take you out on their boats for a small fee.

Local phrase: When asking a local for directions to a secluded beach, use “Onde fica a praia escondida?” (Where is the hidden beach?) followed by “É seguro para nadar?” (Is it safe for swimming?)

Cultural Experiences and Plantation Tours

The islands’ unique history as Portuguese cocoa and coffee plantations (roças) has left a fascinating cultural legacy that’s well worth exploring.

Must-Visit Roças:

  • Roça São João: A working cocoa plantation where you can see the entire chocolate-making process from tree to bar. The on-site chocolate factory offers tastings and sells excellent single-origin chocolate bars.
  • Roça Água Izé: Once the largest plantation on São Tomé with over 50,000 workers. The grand colonial buildings are now mostly in ruins, creating an eerie but photogenic landscape.
  • Roça Monte Café: High in the mountains, this coffee plantation offers cooler temperatures and stunning views. The small museum explains the history of coffee production on the islands.

To truly understand the cultural significance of these plantations, I recommend hiring a local guide. On my third visit, I hired Gabriel, a former plantation worker’s son, who shared personal family stories that transformed my understanding of the islands’ complex colonial history. You can find guides through your accommodation or at the tourism office in São Tomé city.

Outdoor Adventures and Nature Experiences

The volcanic terrain and biodiversity make STP a paradise for nature lovers. Don’t miss these experiences:

Hiking and Trekking

  1. Pico de São Tomé: The challenging climb to the island’s highest point (2,024m) takes a full day and requires a guide. The panoramic views from the top spanning the entire island are worth every drop of sweat.
  2. Lagoa Amelia: A more accessible half-day hike to a volcanic crater lake surrounded by rainforest.
  3. Príncipe’s Parrot Trail: A gentle forest walk with excellent birdwatching opportunities, especially for spotting the endemic Príncipe Grey Parrot.

Wildlife Encounters

  • Turtle watching: Five of the world’s seven sea turtle species nest on the islands’ beaches between November and February. Join a guided night tour with Programa Tatô, a local conservation organization.
  • Bird watching: With dozens of endemic species, the islands are a birder’s paradise. The São Tomé Ibis and Príncipe Thrush are particularly sought-after sightings.
  • Whale and dolphin watching: Boat tours from July to October offer excellent chances to see humpback whales. Year-round dolphin sightings are common.

Mistake I made: On my first visit, I attempted Pico de São Tomé without a proper guide, only to get thoroughly lost in the cloud forest. I now always use certified guides for serious hikes, usually arranged through Clube de Pescas, which has knowledgeable staff and fair pricing.

Food Guide: Eating Like a Local

Must-Try Local Dishes

São Tomé and Príncipe’s cuisine is a delicious blend of Portuguese colonial influences and African traditions, heavily featuring seafood, tropical fruits, and local plants.

Signature Dishes:

  • Calulu: The national dish—a stew of fish or meat with palm oil, okra, and various greens. Best tried at Restaurante Papa Figo in São Tomé city (around 250 STD).
  • Jogo: Grilled fish marinated with local herbs and lime. The freshest version can be found at beachside restaurants like Praia Inhame, where you can see the day’s catch being brought in.
  • Banana prata frita: Fried plantains, a delicious side dish found everywhere. The roadside stand near Hotel Miramar serves them crispy on the outside and soft inside—perfect!
  • Fruta-pão: Breadfruit prepared in various ways—fried, boiled, or as chips. It becomes a staple of your diet the longer you stay.
  • Chocolate: Single-origin chocolate made from local cocoa. Visit Claudio Corallo in São Tomé city for the ultimate chocolate experience.

Local Drinks:

  • Café de São Tomé: Locally grown coffee with a distinct mild flavor.
  • Cacharamba: Potent sugarcane liquor (approach with caution!).
  • Coconut water: Fresh from roadside vendors for about 25 STD.

Local phrase: When ordering at local restaurants, say “Quero comida da terra, por favor” (I want local food, please) to ensure you get authentic dishes rather than tourist-oriented meals.

Where to Eat: From Street Food to Fine Dining

Budget Eats (Under 200 STD/8€)

  • Mercado Municipal (Central Market): Food stalls selling grilled fish, stews, and tropical fruits. My favorite morning ritual is having fresh papaya and pineapple here for breakfast.
  • Dona Tété’s: Not in any guidebook, this home kitchen near the cathedral serves the best calulu in town. Look for the yellow house with plastic chairs out front.
  • Street BBQ: Evening grilled chicken and fish stands appear along Avenida Marginal. Around 100-150 STD for a filling meal.

Mid-range Options (300-500 STD/12-20€)

  • Restaurante Santola: Excellent seafood in a casual setting near the port. Their crab curry is legendary.
  • Café & Companhia: Great for lunch with sandwiches, salads, and pastries. Good Wi-Fi makes it popular with expats.

Special Occasion (800+ STD/35€+)

  • Roça Sundy (on Príncipe): Farm-to-table dining in a colonial mansion. Their tasting menu showcases the island’s finest ingredients.
  • Pestana’s Ocean Restaurant: International cuisine with stunning sunset views over the Atlantic.

Money-saving hack: Most restaurants serve extremely generous portions. My partner and I routinely share a main dish and add an extra side or appetizer, cutting our meal costs by nearly 40% without going hungry.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip

Health and Safety

São Tomé and Príncipe is one of Africa’s safest countries, with minimal violent crime. However, it’s still important to take basic precautions:

Health Considerations:

  • Malaria prevention: Malaria is present year-round. I take atovaquone/proguanil (Malarone) starting two days before arrival and continuing seven days after departure. Also pack DEET insect repellent, lightweight long-sleeved clothing, and a bed net if staying in budget accommodations.
  • Vaccinations: Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory and checked upon arrival. Hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus boosters are also recommended.
  • Medical facilities: Healthcare is extremely limited. The main hospital in São Tomé city handles basic emergencies, but serious conditions require evacuation. Comprehensive travel insurance with evacuation coverage is essential.
  • Water: Tap water is unsafe to drink. Bottled water is widely available (around 50 STD for 1.5 liters), or bring a water purification system to reduce plastic waste.

Safety Tips:

  • Petty theft can occur in crowded areas of São Tomé city. Use a money belt for valuables.
  • Swimming safety: Some beaches have strong currents. Always ask locals before swimming in unfamiliar areas.
  • Road safety: If self-driving, avoid night driving due to poor road conditions and inadequate lighting.

Mistake I made: On my second trip, I ran out of antimalarial pills thinking I could buy more locally. Pharmacies on the island carry limited stock of Western medications, and what they do have is often expired. Always bring enough medication for your entire stay plus a few extra days.

Communication and Connectivity

Staying connected in São Tomé and Príncipe has improved significantly since my first visit but remains challenging outside major towns:

Mobile and Internet:

  • The main mobile provider is CST. SIM cards cost around 100 STD and can be purchased at the airport or in town with your passport.
  • Data packages start at 200 STD for 1GB. Coverage is good in São Tomé city and spotty elsewhere.
  • On Príncipe, expect very limited connectivity outside of Santo António town.
  • Most mid-range and luxury hotels offer Wi-Fi, but it’s often slow and unreliable. Download maps, translation apps, and entertainment before arrival.

Language:

  • Portuguese is the official language. English is spoken in tourist establishments but rarely elsewhere.
  • Local creole languages (Forro, Angolar, and Principense) are widely spoken.
  • Basic Portuguese phrases will greatly enhance your experience. I rely heavily on “Fala devagar, por favor” (Please speak slowly) and “Não entendo” (I don’t understand).

Sustainable Travel Practices

The islands’ ecosystems are fragile and vulnerable to tourism impacts. Here’s how you can travel responsibly:

  • Plastic reduction: Bring a reusable water bottle with a purifier, tote bags for shopping, and reef-safe sunscreen.
  • Wildlife ethics: Maintain distance from nesting turtles and never use flash photography. Only participate in turtle-watching tours with conservation-focused operators like MARAPA.
  • Supporting local economies: Buy directly from artisans at the São Tomé craft market rather than imported souvenirs. My favorite purchases have been hand-carved wooden masks and items made from repurposed cocoa pods.
  • Cultural respect: Ask permission before photographing people, dress modestly when visiting communities (shoulders and knees covered), and remove shoes when entering someone’s home.

Money-saving sustainability tip: Bring a portable water purifier like a SteriPen or LifeStraw. You’ll save approximately 200-300 STD per day on bottled water while preventing dozens of plastic bottles from ending up in the ocean.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Lesser-Known Attractions

These hidden gems rarely appear in guidebooks but offer some of my most cherished memories:

On São Tomé:

  • Cascata São Nicolau: A series of waterfalls and natural pools about an hour’s hike from Roça Monte Café. Go early on weekdays to have this paradise to yourself.
  • Praia Sete Ondas (Seven Waves Beach): Named for the seven waves that continuously roll in, this remote northern beach requires a 4WD vehicle but rewards with dramatic scenery and complete solitude.
  • Ilhéu das Cabras: A tiny uninhabited islet visible from São Tomé city. Local fishermen can take you there for around 300 STD. The snorkeling around the islet is spectacular, with visibility often exceeding 20 meters.

On Príncipe:

  • Abandoned Hospital: Just outside Santo António, this atmospheric colonial-era ruin is slowly being reclaimed by the jungle. Fascinating for photography and history buffs.
  • Ribeira Izé: The site of Portugal’s first settlement in the Gulf of Guinea, now just stone ruins in the jungle. A local guide is essential to find and interpret this historical site.

Local Festivals and Events

Timing your visit to coincide with these celebrations offers a deeper cultural experience:

  • Auto de Floripes (August 10): A fascinating medieval Portuguese drama performed annually in the town of Neves. The entire community participates in this day-long theatrical battle between Christians and Moors.
  • Tchiloli: A unique theatrical tradition blending African and European elements, performed periodically throughout the year. Ask at your accommodation for current performance dates.
  • Independence Day (July 12): Celebrations throughout the islands with music, dance, and special foods.

Insider tip: If you hear drumming while driving through a village, stop and ask if you can watch. I’ve been spontaneously invited to local celebrations this way, including a fascinating Danço Congo performance that wasn’t on any tourist itinerary.

Interacting with Local Communities

Some of my most memorable experiences have come from meaningful connections with Santomeans:

  • Fishing with locals: In coastal villages like Santana, fishermen sometimes welcome visitors to join their morning outings for a small contribution (negotiate beforehand, around 200-300 STD is fair).
  • School visits: Many rural schools welcome respectful visitors. Bring useful donations like notebooks, pencils, or English books rather than candy or money.
  • Homestays: Some families in São João dos Angolares offer basic accommodations with meals included. This immersive experience provides genuine insight into daily life and supports families directly.

The key to meaningful interactions is approaching with respect and genuine interest. Learning just a few phrases in Portuguese goes a long way:

  • “Bom dia, como vai?” (Good day, how are you?)
  • “Muito obrigado/a pela sua hospitalidade” (Thank you very much for your hospitality)
  • “Posso tirar uma foto?” (May I take a photo?)

Conclusion: Your 5-Step Action Plan for 2025

São Tomé and Príncipe remains one of Africa’s most captivating yet least-visited destinations. As tourism slowly grows (visitor numbers have increased about 15% annually since 2023), now is the perfect time to experience these enchanting islands before they change forever.

To help you plan a truly memorable journey, here’s your 5-step action plan:

  1. Book strategically: Secure your flights 3-4 months in advance for the best rates, focusing on TAP Air Portugal’s Tuesday and Saturday departures which tend to be cheapest. Submit your e-visa application no later than two weeks before travel.
  2. Plan a split stay: Divide your time between São Tomé (minimum 5 days) and Príncipe (minimum 3 days) to experience both islands’ distinct characters. Book the inter-island flight the moment your international flights are confirmed.
  3. Prepare for disconnection: Download offline maps, translation apps, e-books, and entertainment before arrival. Notify your bank and family of limited connectivity, especially if visiting Príncipe.
  4. Pack thoughtfully: Beyond the usual tropical essentials, bring a headlamp (power outages are common), a dry bag for boat trips, a reusable water bottle with purifier, and more cash than you think you’ll need (preferably euros in small denominations).
  5. Connect before you go: Join the “Friends of São Tomé and Príncipe” Facebook group to get current information from expats and frequent visitors. Consider arranging a guide in advance through STP Tourism or Mister Birding for a smooth introduction to the islands.

Remember that the islands operate on “leve-leve” time—the local philosophy of taking things slowly and calmly. Embrace this mindset, be flexible with your plans, and savor the unexpected moments that will inevitably become your favorite memories. São Tomé and Príncipe isn’t just a destination; it’s an invitation to rediscover a slower, more meaningful way of experiencing the world.

As they say in São Tomé, “Quem não arrisca, não petisca“—who doesn’t take risks, doesn’t get to taste the good stuff. Take the risk. Visit these extraordinary islands. I promise you won’t regret it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is São Tomé and Príncipe safe for solo travelers?

Yes, São Tomé and Príncipe is generally very safe for solo travelers, including women. Violent crime is rare, and the locals are typically helpful and hospitable. However, take standard precautions: avoid isolated areas after dark, don’t display expensive items, and keep someone informed of your daily plans. As a solo female traveler on my first trip, I felt safer here than in many European cities.

What’s the minimum time needed to visit both islands?

To experience both São Tomé and Príncipe without feeling rushed, I recommend a minimum of 10 days: 6-7 days on São Tomé and 3-4 days on Príncipe. If you’re limited to one week, focus solely on São Tomé as the logistics of reaching Príncipe (and potential weather delays) can consume too much of your precious vacation time.

Do I need a 4WD vehicle to explore São Tomé?

While many of São Tomé’s main roads are paved and accessible with a standard vehicle, a 4WD is strongly recommended if you plan to visit remote beaches, plantations, or interior attractions. During the rainy season (October-May), even some main roads can become challenging without 4WD. If you’re sticking to São Tomé city and nearby attractions, a standard car is sufficient.

What’s the best way to exchange money?

The most favorable exchange rates are typically found at banks in São Tomé city, particularly Banco Internacional de São Tomé e Príncipe (BISTP). Exchange only what you need for a few days at the airport upon arrival (rates are less favorable but convenient), then make a bank visit once in the city. ATMs sometimes work with foreign cards but are unreliable and often empty. Bring euros in cash as your primary currency.

Can I visit São Tomé and Príncipe on a budget?

While not as affordable as some African destinations, budget travel is possible in São Tomé and Príncipe if you’re willing to compromise on comfort. Staying in guesthouses (500-700 STD/night), eating at local restaurants (100-200 STD/meal), and using shared taxis (10-30 STD/ride) can keep daily expenses around 1,000-1,500 STD (40-60€) excluding activities. The most significant expense is typically the flight to get there, so look for TAP Air Portugal promotions or consider multi-country itineraries including Ghana or Gabon to reduce airfare costs.

What souvenirs should I bring home?

The best souvenirs from São Tomé and Príncipe include:

  • Single-origin chocolate from Claudio Corallo or Diogo Vaz (10-20€ per package)
  • Coffee from Monte Café (8-15€ per bag)
  • Local artwork from the National Museum shop or directly from artists
  • Handcrafted items made from coconut shells or repurposed materials
  • Traditional wooden masks and sculptures

Most of these can be purchased at the craft market in São Tomé city or at the airport’s small duty-free shop.

Is English widely spoken?

English is not widely spoken outside of tourist establishments. Hotel staff, tour guides, and some restaurant workers in upscale establishments speak basic to good English, but for meaningful interactions with locals, knowing some Portuguese is invaluable. I recommend learning at least basic greetings, numbers, and food-related phrases. Younger Santomeans are increasingly learning English in school, so you may find English speakers among the under-25 population.

What’s the electricity situation like?

São Tomé and Príncipe uses 220V with European-style Type C and F plugs (two round pins). Power outages are frequent, even in São Tomé city, and can last from minutes to hours. Most mid-range and luxury accommodations have generators, but budget places typically don’t. I always travel with a power bank for electronics, a headlamp, and adapters. If you require electricity for medical devices, choose accommodations with reliable generator backup.

References