São Tomé and Príncipe Travel Cheat Sheet 2025: A Local's Guide to Paradise - Xplrverse

Introduction: My São Tomé Love Affair

The first time I stepped off the plane at São Tomé International Airport (TMS), the humid air hit me like a warm embrace. That was six years and seven visits ago, and I’ve been hopelessly enchanted by this tiny two-island nation ever since. I remember sitting at Café e Companhia on my first morning, sipping a cup of local coffee so divine I actually wrote a poem about it in my travel journal (embarrassing but true).

São Tomé and Príncipe remains Africa’s hidden gem—a Portuguese-speaking paradise of pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and colonial architecture that somehow hasn’t been overrun by tourism. This cheat sheet compiles everything I wish I’d known before my first visit, updated for 2025 with the latest prices, tips, and observations.

Essential Planning: What You Must Know Before Booking

Visa Requirements and Entry

São Tomé and Príncipe introduced its e-visa system in late 2023, making arrival much smoother in 2025. Apply online through the official immigration portal at least one week before travel. The fee is currently 20€ for a 15-day tourist visa, and 30€ for a 30-day visa.

Insider Tip: Save the confirmation PDF to your phone—WiFi at the airport is spotty, and immigration officers prefer seeing the document rather than just a confirmation number.

Remember that most nationalities also need a yellow fever certificate when entering from certain African countries. I forgot mine on my second trip and had to pay 40€ for an on-the-spot vaccination—not the most pleasant welcome!

Best Time to Visit

São Tomé has two distinct seasons:

Dry season (June to September): Ideal for hiking, wildlife watching, and beach activities. Temperatures average 24-28°C.
Rainy season (October to May): More humidity and afternoon downpours, but lush landscapes and fewer tourists. Príncipe is particularly magical when misty.

I’ve visited in both seasons and personally prefer May or October—the shoulder months with lower prices and milder weather patterns. The new climate patterns in 2025 have made November surprisingly pleasant as well.

Getting There

Direct flights to São Tomé International Airport (TMS) now operate from:

Lisbon (TAP Portugal) – 4x weekly
Accra (TAAG) – 3x weekly
Luanda (TAAG) – 2x weekly
Lagos (ASKY) – 1x weekly (new for 2025)

Flight prices fluctuate wildly but generally range from €500-900 return from Europe. I’ve found booking 3-4 months in advance through Skyscanner yields the best deals.

Money Matters: Currency and Costs

The Dobra and Payment Options

The local currency is the São Tomé and Príncipe dobra (STD), which was redenominated in 2018 (1 new dobra = 1,000 old dobras). As of early 2025, €1 equals approximately 25 STD.

Cash is still king here, though this is slowly changing. In 2025, the capital city of São Tomé has several ATMs that accept international cards, but they frequently run out of cash or suffer network issues. The most reliable ones are at:

Banco Internacional de São Tomé e Príncipe (BISTP) on Praça da Independência
Afriland First Bank near the central market
The new Ecobank branch on Avenida Marginal (opened late 2024)

Money-Saving Tip #1: Bring euros in small denominations. Many hotels and upscale restaurants accept euros directly, often at better rates than official exchanges. I typically bring €300 in small bills for a week-long stay.

Daily Budget Breakdown (2025 Prices)

Budget Level	Accommodation	Meals	Transport	Daily Total
Backpacker	250-500 STD	150-250 STD	50-100 STD	450-850 STD
Mid-range	800-1500 STD	300-600 STD	200-400 STD	1300-2500 STD
Luxury	2500+ STD	800+ STD	500+ STD	3800+ STD

On my last trip, I averaged 1800 STD (about €72) per day traveling mid-range, including occasional splurges on diving and a chocolate tasting experience.

Tipping Culture

Tipping isn’t traditionally expected in São Tomé, but the influx of tourism is slowly changing this. My approach:

Restaurants: 5-10% for good service (just round up the bill for casual places)
Guides: 200-500 STD for a full-day tour
Hotel staff: 50-100 STD for exceptional service

Using the phrase “Muito obrigado/a pelo serviço excelente” (Thank you very much for the excellent service) while tipping goes a long way!

Getting Around: Transportation Guide

Inter-Island Travel

Getting between São Tomé and Príncipe has become more reliable in 2025, with these options:

Flights: STP Airways operates daily 35-minute flights (1500 STD one-way). Book through your hotel or directly at their office in São Tomé city—online booking rarely works properly.
Ferry Service: The weekly ferry service (Wednesdays only) takes 6-8 hours and costs 800 STD. It’s much cheaper but frequently canceled due to weather conditions.

Getting Around São Tomé Island

Public Transport

Colorful shared minivans called “taxis coletivos” serve most routes. They leave when full and cost 25-100 STD depending on distance. Find them at the main terminals near the central market and Praça da Independência.

Money-Saving Tip #2: Negotiate motorbike rentals directly with locals outside tourist areas. I rented a decent 125cc bike for 250 STD per day instead of the 600 STD quoted by hotels simply by asking around in Trindade village.

Car Rentals

Hiring a car gives you true freedom to explore. Basic models start at 750 STD/day, with 4WDs around 1200-1500 STD/day. The roads are surprisingly good on the main routes but deteriorate quickly on secondary roads. The newest rental agency, Europcar, opened near the airport in late 2024 and has the most reliable vehicles.

Some local words for directions:

“Frente” = Straight ahead
“Direita” = Right
“Esquerda” = Left

Where to Stay: Accommodation Guide

São Tomé City Options

The capital offers the widest range of stays:

Budget: Residencial Avenida (300 STD/night) – Basic but clean rooms in the city center. The shared courtyard becomes a lively local hangout in evenings.
Mid-range: Sweet Guest House (900 STD/night) – My personal favorite for its homemade breakfasts and helpful owner Maria who knows everything about the island.
Luxury: Pestana São Tomé (3000+ STD/night) – The reliable international option with all amenities and the best WiFi on the island.

Coastal Retreats

The best beach accommodations:

Praia Inhame Eco Lodge (1200 STD/night) – Rustic beachfront bungalows at the southern tip of São Tomé. The sunset views here brought tears to my eyes.
Mucumbli (1500 STD/night) – Perched on cliffs near Neves with stunning views and incredible food. Their cocoa-marinated fish is still the best meal I’ve had on the island.
Roça Relais (1800 STD/night) – A beautifully restored plantation with elegant rooms and a sense of history. The owner Antonio will tell you fascinating stories over evening drinks.

Príncipe Island Stays

Príncipe offers fewer but more exclusive options:

Budget: Residencial Palhota (400 STD/night) – Simple rooms in Santo Antonio, the island’s only town.
Splurge-worthy: Sundy Praia (7500+ STD/night) – Possibly the most beautiful hotel I’ve ever seen, with luxury tented villas on a perfect beach. I saved for months to stay here for two nights, and it was worth every dobra.

Money-Saving Tip #3: Many properties offer significant discounts (20-30% off) for stays of 5+ nights or during the rainy season. Always email directly before booking through platforms. I saved 400 STD per night at Mucumbli by contacting them directly.

Food and Drink: Culinary Adventures

Local Specialties You Must Try

São Tomé’s cuisine blends Portuguese, African, and Brazilian influences. Don’t miss:

Calulu – A rich fish or meat stew with palm oil, vegetables, and okra. Best version is at O Bigodes restaurant in São Tomé city (350 STD).
Jogo – Grilled fish with plantains and a spicy sauce. The beachside version at Praia Piscina is life-changing (250 STD).
Banana prata – A specific type of small banana that’s incredibly sweet. Look for them in any market (25 STD for a bunch).
Local chocolate – Some of the world’s finest, particularly from Claudio Corallo (tasting experience: 150 STD).

My biggest food mistake? Avoiding street food for my first two visits! The grilled corn sold by women near the lighthouse (20 STD) has a smoky, caramelized flavor I’ve been unable to replicate at home.

Drinking Experiences

The national drink is palm wine (“vinho da palma”) which comes in two varieties:

Vinho da palma doce – Sweet, mildly fermented palm sap (morning harvest)
Vinho da palma forte – Stronger, more fermented version (afternoon harvest)

Try it at any local bar for around 30-50 STD per cup. Be warned: quality varies wildly, and the hangovers can be legendary!

Local phrase: When toasting, say “Saúde e muitos anos de vida” (Health and many years of life)

Where to Eat

São Tomé City

Café e Companhia – Modern café with excellent coffee and pastries. Their WiFi is the most reliable in the city.
Papa Figo – Mid-range restaurant with traditional dishes and stunning bay views. The grilled dorado is spectacular.
Central Market food stalls – For the brave and budget-conscious. The fish stew for 75 STD is a steal.

Around the Island

Santana Beach Club – Upscale beachfront dining with fresh seafood.
Roça São João – Farm-to-table meals at this working plantation. Call ahead to reserve: +239 985 1110

Must-See Experiences: Beyond the Tourist Trail

São Tomé’s Hidden Gems

Northern Delights

Lagoa Azul (Blue Lagoon) – Crystal-clear waters for snorkeling. Go early (before 9am) to have it to yourself.
Roça Agostinho Neto – An atmospheric abandoned plantation that shows both the grandeur and dark history of colonial times.
Praia das Conchas – My favorite beach on the island, accessible via a 30-minute forest trail. Bring everything you need as there are no facilities.

Southern Adventures

Jalé Beach – Remote paradise with turtle watching opportunities (November-February).
Pico Cão Grande – The iconic needle-shaped volcanic peak. Best viewpoint is from Roça Monte Café.
São João dos Angolares – Visit chef João Carlos Silva’s cultural project and restaurant for an unforgettable meal and art experience.

I made the mistake of trying to hike to Pico Cão Grande without a guide—I got thoroughly lost and ended up in a village where no one spoke Portuguese or English. Now I always arrange guides through Navetur-Equatour.

Príncipe Island Must-Dos

Smaller Príncipe is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and even more undeveloped than São Tomé:

Praia Banana – The beach that appeared in a famous Bacardi commercial, shaped like a banana and framed by palms.
Santo António – The world’s smallest city (population: approximately 1,000), with colorful Portuguese colonial architecture.
Hiking to Pico Papagaio – A challenging but rewarding trek through pristine forests.

When I hiked Pico Papagaio, I heard what I thought was a woman screaming—it turned out to be the call of an African grey parrot, which actually originated on these islands!

Cultural Insights and Etiquette

Language Basics

Portuguese is the official language, but many people also speak Forro (a Portuguese-based creole). English is limited to some hotel staff and tour guides.

Useful phrases:

“Bom dia/Boa tarde/Boa noite” – Good morning/afternoon/evening
“Quanto custa?” – How much does it cost?
“Soté” – Local greeting that roughly translates to “I see you” or “I acknowledge you”

Cultural Do’s and Don’ts

Do:

Greet everyone before starting a conversation or transaction
Ask permission before taking photos of people
Dress modestly when visiting communities outside beach areas
Accept offers of food or drink as a sign of hospitality

Don’t:

Rush transactions or conversations—Santomean time is relaxed
Be loud or confrontational—calm discussion is valued
Photograph government buildings or military installations
Expect rigid schedules—flexibility is essential

I learned the importance of greetings when I entered a small shop and immediately asked for water. The shopkeeper ignored me completely until I left and re-entered with a proper “Bom dia” and short chat about the weather!

Practical Tips: Health, Safety, and Connectivity

Health Considerations

São Tomé has minimal health risks compared to mainland Africa, but take these precautions:

Yellow fever vaccination – Required for entry if coming from certain countries.
Malaria – Present but low-risk. I take prophylaxis when visiting during rainy season but not during dry season. Consult your doctor.
Sunscreen and hydration – The equatorial sun is intense even on cloudy days.

The main hospital in São Tomé city is basic. For serious issues, evacuation to Gabon or Portugal would be necessary. Travel insurance is essential.

Sustainability Tip: Instead of buying bottled water, bring a purification system. I use a SteriPEN which has saved me hundreds of dobras while avoiding plastic waste. Nearly all guesthouses now provide filtered water if you ask.

Safety Information

São Tomé is one of Africa’s safest countries. In six years of visits, I’ve never felt threatened. Common sense precautions apply:

Don’t display expensive items, especially in the markets
Avoid isolated beaches after dark
Use official taxis at night rather than walking

The most common issues are petty theft and occasional scams targeting tourists. The new tourist police office near the cathedral can help with any problems.

Connectivity and Electronics

Internet access has improved dramatically in 2025:

SIM cards: CST and Unitel offer tourist SIM packages (250 STD with 5GB data). Purchase at the airport or their offices in São Tomé city with your passport.
WiFi: Available at most hotels in São Tomé city but often slow. Café e Companhia and the new digital nomad café Cacau Hub offer the fastest connections.
Power: 220V with European-style plugs. Power cuts are common—bring a power bank.

A mistake I made repeatedly: assuming I could get work done during my visit. Internet speeds are improving but still unreliable, and the island’s beauty has a way of making work seem very unimportant anyway!

Sustainable and Ethical Travel

Environmental Considerations

São Tomé and Príncipe’s ecosystems are fragile and unique:

Support accommodations with environmental policies like Jalé Ecolodge or Bom Bom Island Resort
Avoid single-use plastics—there’s limited waste management on the islands
Stay on marked trails when hiking to protect endemic plant species
Choose tour operators that follow wildlife viewing guidelines, especially for sea turtles and whales

Sustainability Tip that Saves Money: Eat at places serving local seasonal food rather than imported items. The fish caught that morning at a beach restaurant is not only more sustainable but costs about half what you’d pay for imported frozen options at upscale hotels.

Supporting Local Communities

Tourism is becoming increasingly important to the economy:

Buy souvenirs directly from artisans—the woman carving coconut jewelry on Praia Jalé makes beautiful pieces
Take cooking classes—I learned to make traditional calulu at Roça São João
Visit community projects like Carvalho’s Music School in Neves where tourists can attend impromptu concerts

After my third visit, I started bringing basic school supplies to donate to rural schools. The 2024-2025 school year has seen major shortages of notebooks and pencils, which are inexpensive for visitors to bring but make a huge difference.

Conclusion: Your 5-Step Action Plan for São Tomé

São Tomé and Príncipe changed my perspective on travel. In a world of overtourism and Instagram hotspots, these islands remain authentically themselves—unhurried, unpolished, and utterly captivating.

To make the most of your visit in 2025, follow this 5-step action plan:

Book strategically: Aim for shoulder seasons (May or October) for the best weather-to-price ratio, and book flights 3-4 months in advance.
Prepare properly: Apply for e-visa early, bring euros in small denominations, pack a water purification device, and download offline maps.
Split your time wisely: Allow at least 7 days total—3 days in São Tomé city, 2 days in the north/central regions, and 2 days in the south. Add 3-4 days if visiting Príncipe.
Connect meaningfully: Learn 5-10 basic Portuguese phrases, eat where locals eat at least once daily, and participate in a community activity or tour.
Slow down: Build buffer days into your itinerary for unexpected discoveries and accept “island time”—my favorite memories are from unplanned encounters and detours.

My final piece of advice: bring a journal. Something about these islands inspires reflection, and you’ll want to capture the feelings and moments that can’t be photographed. My São Tomé journals are now my most treasured souvenirs.

When you sit at a beachside bar watching the sunset with a cold Rosema beer in hand, listening to local musicians play semba music, you’ll understand why those of us who have discovered São Tomé keep coming back—and why we’re slightly reluctant to tell others about it!

FAQ: Common Questions About São Tomé and Príncipe

Is São Tomé and Príncipe safe for solo travelers?

Yes, extremely safe compared to most destinations. As a solo female traveler on three of my visits, I felt comfortable walking around São Tomé city during daylight hours and arranged tours for more remote areas. Common sense precautions apply, but violent crime is rare. The biggest risks are sunburn and occasional stomach upsets!

How much time do I need to properly see both islands?

I recommend a minimum of 10 days to experience both islands without rushing—7 days for São Tomé and 3 days for Príncipe. If you have limited time, focus on one island rather than rushing both. São Tomé offers more diversity of experiences for first-time visitors, while Príncipe is better for those seeking pristine nature and seclusion.

Can I visit São Tomé on a tight budget?

Yes, with planning. Budget travelers can manage on 800-1000 STD (€32-40) daily by:

Staying in guesthouses like Residencial Avenida or Casa Pastéis de Nata
Eating at local markets and street food stalls
Using shared taxis instead of private transport
Joining group tours rather than private excursions

What souvenirs should I buy?

The best authentic souvenirs include:

Single-origin chocolate from Claudio Corallo or Diogo Vaz
Coffee from Monte Café plantation
Hand-carved coconut jewelry
Local artwork from the national museum gift shop
Artisanal rum infused with local fruits

Is it possible to work remotely from São Tomé?

It’s improving but challenging. As of 2025, internet connectivity is adequate for basic tasks in São Tomé city but still unreliable elsewhere. The new Cacau Hub coworking space offers the most consistent connection. Príncipe remains very disconnected, which is part of its charm! I recommend downloading any essential files before arrival and warning colleagues you may be unreachable at times.

What’s the latest on COVID-19 requirements?

As of early 2025, São Tomé no longer requires COVID testing or vaccination proof for entry. However, requirements can change quickly, so check the US State Department or equivalent travel advisory for your country before departure.

References and Further Reading

São Tomé and Príncipe Official Tourism Website – The government’s tourism portal with event calendars and official information.
World Bank: São Tomé and Príncipe Economic Updates – Helpful for understanding the country’s development context.
Lonely Planet: São Tomé and Príncipe – Regularly updated destination guide.
BirdLife International: Conserving Paradise in Príncipe – Excellent information on conservation efforts.
Claudio Corallo Chocolate – Learn about São Tomé’s world-class chocolate production.
Viator Tours in São Tomé and Príncipe – A good overview of available organized experiences.
Navetur-Equatour – Reliable local tour operator with conservation focus.
Visit São Tomé Instagram – Beautiful photography and current events.
Atlas Obscura: Pico Cão Grande – Fascinating information about the iconic peak.
BBC Travel: The World’s Most Accessible Paradise – Thoughtful piece on tourism development.
CDC Travel Health for São Tomé and Príncipe – Updated health information and recommendations.
The Last Train to Zona Verde by Paul Theroux – Contains insightful chapters on São Tomé.