Welcome to São Tomé and Príncipe
Explore São Tomé’s rainforest paths, coastal villages, and daily life at an island pace — real, unfiltered, and far from the usual tourist trail.
Hello,
from São Tomé
da São Tomé
aus São Tomé
de São Tomé
de São Tomé
Where nature sets the pace
Welcome to São Tomé, where things are simple, and time moves slowly. From the moment you arrive, you’ll hear the ocean, feel the heat, and notice life unfolding at its own pace. No rush, no show — just a chance to see, listen, and be part of something real.
“Once the travel bug bites, there is no known antidote, and I know that I shall be happily infected until the end of my life.”
Is São Tomé and Príncipe touristy?
Tourism here is small‑scale. Cruise ships do visit, usually anchoring offshore and tendering passengers for day trips. Most join organised coach tours and leave the same day, which misses much of the island’s soul. There’s no resort strip — just a few high‑end stays and plenty of quiet beaches and local life.
Is it expensive to visit São Tomé and Príncipe?
It depends how you travel. Omali on São Tomé starts from about €170 a night, and Bom Bom on Príncipe can be over €500. That’s at the top end. You can also stay in family-run guesthouses or small lodges for much less, and the money stays here. Car hire is 35–40 € a day, and a moto-taxi ride in town is around 20 dobras. A beer is 35–40 dobras, cocktails in bars can be 200 for a gin and tonic, but a large caipirinha from a street bar near the roulottes is closer to 80.
What is the weather like in São Tomé and Príncipe year-round?
Tropical reality here doesn’t shift by season—it just moves in shade. The air hovers around mid-20s °C by day, dipping just a touch at night. From October through May, rain builds a soft, green skin over the land—March and April bring the heaviest wash. But July and August pull back, offering drier air, rare showers, and drier heat that settles into your bones. Sunshine softens and humidity loosens—every month breathes its own rhythm here.
What’s the visa process for São Tomé and Príncipe?
For most visitors from Europe, the U.S., or Canada, it’s simple — you can arrive and stay for up to 15 days without a visa. The same goes if you already hold a Schengen or U.S. visa or residence permit. If you want to stay longer, you’ll need to get one in advance. The online system’s been broken for months, so your best bet is to check with an embassy before you set foot on the plane.
Do I need vaccinations to visit São Tomé and Príncipe?
Keep your routine vaccinations up to date. Hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid are often recommended, and yellow fever is required if you’re coming from or transiting through a high-risk country. Malaria has been greatly reduced here — the country aims to eliminate it by 2025 — but cases still happen, so speak to a travel clinic about whether prevention is right for you. If you’ll be in rural areas or working with animals, rabies shots may also be advised.
What plug type and voltage are used in São Tomé and Príncipe?
Power is 220 V / 50 Hz, using European-style Type C and Type F plugs. You can find adaptors in local markets, but expect to pay more than you would at home, they’re not always reliable, and you won’t get a receipt. It’s better to bring what you need with you.
Is São Tomé and Príncipe safe?
Petty theft happens but it’s rare — just remember your iPhone could be worth a year’s salary here. Violent crime is very rare. The bigger risks are physical: roads with holes big enough to drown a pig, and open drains you could put a leg into — even in the city. Streets can feel safe to walk at night in terms of crime, but watch where you step.
What’s the food like?
Plenty of range. Higher-end places serve international dishes (you’ll pay for it). Most people eat at roulottes—burger vans doing soups and burgers (roughly 30 dobras for soup, 70–110 dobras for a burger). Some have cocktail stands mixing caipirinhas in front of you. Fruit is sold everywhere; you’ll see street fish/meat too—great if your stomach’s ready, otherwise maybe not on day one.
Everyday moments on São Tomé
No sets, no poses. Kids swim beside fishing boats. Beaches are quiet after rain. Sometimes the kids play where they want to play. This is the place as it is — please take it gently.
Street Flavours & Fresh Drinks
From busy markets to late-night stalls, São Tomé’s street food is full of life. Watch your drink made fresh in front of you, with local fruits and island energy in every pour. Taste the real rhythm of the city.
Lagoa Azul & Warm Seas
Swim in the calm, clear waters of São Tomé’s famous Blue Lagoon. This sheltered cove is perfect for a quiet dip, a snorkel, or simply floating under the tropical sun.
Festivals & Celebrations
At The Chocolate Islands, we know every celebration has its own story. From village feasts to island-wide festivals, São Tomé and Príncipe offer settings that are as unique as the events themselves. Whether it’s a small family gathering or a lively cultural parade, each occasion is shaped by local tradition and the warm spirit of the islands.
Discover São Tomé: Inspiration for Your Next Trip
São Tomé City & Streets
Wander colourful colonial avenues, markets, and waterfront views in the island’s capital.
Whale Watching & Marine Life
Spot humpback whales and other marine life during their seasonal migrations past São Tomé. Join local skippers for an unforgettable trip into the open ocean, where every sighting is unique.
The Story of São Tomé
From early settlement to independence, São Tomé’s past is written in its streets, buildings, and traditions. Step back in time and explore the events that shaped the islands.
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