—Valid Spanish Passport (must be valid for at least 1 year beyond the date of entry)
—Confirmed return or onward flight ticket
—Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate (mandatory for all travelers over 1 year old)
—Proof of accommodation (hotel reservation)

Important Tips

•The local currency is the Dobra (STN). Euros (EUR) are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas, and the Dobra is pegged to the Euro. Cash is king; credit cards are rarely accepted.
•Bring all the cash you need in Euros. ATMs are scarce and may only work with local bank cards or Visa, not Mastercard.
•Portuguese is the official language. Spanish is often understood due to similarities, but learning a few basic Portuguese phrases is helpful.
•A flight is the only practical way to travel between the two islands of São Tomé and Príncipe.
•Take precautions against malaria; consult your doctor regarding antimalarial medication before traveling.

Easiest Way to Get It

Fly into TMS via Lisbon, present your passport and Yellow Fever certificate, get your 15-day stamp, and bring plenty of Euros in cash.

Visa rules can change. Always verify with the official embassy.

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Discover São Tomé & Príncipe

Sao Tome and Principe is a tropical paradise lost in time, located in the Gulf of Guinea on the Equator. Known as the 'Center of the World', these volcanic islands offer lush primary rainforests, dramatic rock spires like Cão Grande, and historic cocoa and coffee plantations known as 'Roças'. The islands are a haven for biodiversity and a testament to the peaceful 'Leve-Leve' (easy-easy) way of life.

Sao Tome

The seaside capital, famous for its Portuguese colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and the historic Fort São Sebastião.

Pico Cão GrandeObo National ParkRoça Agostinho NetoCalulu (Smoked fish stew)Arroz Doce (Sweet rice)

Best Time: June to September (Gravana - the long dry season with cooler temperatures)

Currency: Sao Tome and Principe Dobra (STN)

Daily Budget: $70-150/day

Safety & Scams

Generally very safe for tourists; violent crime is rare; exercise standard precautions with cash and electronics in markets; malaria is a risk—consult a doctor for prophylactics; healthcare is basic in Sao Tome and very limited in Principe; tap water is not safe—filtered or bottled water is essential.

Getting Around

Shared taxis (amarelos) are the main way to travel locally; motorcycle taxis are common for short trips; 4x4 rentals are highly recommended for exploring the rugged interior; small planes and a weekly ferry connect the two islands.

Cultural Etiquette

Greetings are essential; respect the 'Leve Leve' pace of life; dress modestly when away from the beach; ask for permission before photographing individuals; Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated (5-10%).

Internet & Connectivity

Digital infrastructure is developing; 3G/4G is available in Sao Tome and Santo Antonio; Wi-Fi is standard in upscale hotels and some Roças, but can be slow or intermittent.

Explore São Tomé & Príncipe travel guide →