São Tomé and Príncipe - at the centre of the world
With an address at 1°N, 7°E, the striking islands of São Tomé and Príncipe are about as close to the centre of the world as it gets.
People here have a close connection to the environment, and these days, the islands are more commonly known as ‘Africa’s Galapagos’ due to their remarkable, endemic flora and fauna, particularly on UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Príncipe Island. As well as untouched swathes of secondary rainforest, many of its beaches are focal points for sea turtle conservation, and offshore migrating whales and dolphins can be seen cutting through the waves.
Africa’s second smallest country at a glance
Official language: Portuguese
Capital city: São Tomé
Coin: Nova Dobra (STN) 1€ ± 24.5 STN
Driving side: Right
Weather: Tropical with average yearly temperatures of about 27 °C (80.6 °F) and little daily variation
Country code: +239
Population: 201,800 (2018 Official Estimate)
Time zone: UTC (GMT)
How to get to São Tomé and Príncipe
All international flights land on São Tomé Island, at São Tomé International Airport (TMS). From there, you will fly to Príncipe Island, the smaller of the two, and land at Príncipe Airport (PCP).
Getting here
At Príncipe Collection Hotels, we are dedicated to providing a stress-free experience from the moment you land. We understand that travel can be exhausting, so we make it easier for you by including all transfers to and from the airports in both São Tomé and Príncipe Islands, ensuring a smooth journey throughout your stay.
Inclusive Airport Transfers
Whether you are arriving at São Tomé International Airport (TMS) or Príncipe Airport (PCP), our reliable shuttle services will be waiting for you. No need to worry about transportation logistics or haggling with taxis – we’ve got it all covered.
- A domestic flight from São Tomé International Airport to Príncipe Island currently runs on a daily basis (except on Tuesdays);
- The maximum baggage allowance on the domestic flight is 15kg (33 lbs) per person.
- These flights must be booked directly on the Afriject or STP Airways website.
São Tomé benefits from good international connections:
- From Lisbon, Portugal: TAP Portugal or STP Airways.
- From Accra, Ghana: TAP Portugal. This connects with several flights from the USA, Dubai and other European and African hubs.
- From Libreville, Gabon: Afrijet. This connects with the Air France flight from Paris.
- Other connections may also be available through Angola, Luanda on TAAG Airlines (with connections to South Africa and Windhoek, Namibia).
Travel Information
The Tourism Levy and the Conservation and Communities Contribution (CCC) are charged per person per night (13+ years). The CCC supports local projects directly: 50% to our conservation NGO partner Fundação Príncipe and 50% to educational, environmental and social initiatives. Learn more here.
The Tourism Levy is a mandatory tax implemented by the government of São Tomé and Príncipe, with proceeds going towards the development of the islands.
During all times of year, loose, light-fitting clothing in natural fibres (cotton and linen) or synthetic fabrics that breathe are recommended. In the evening, a sweatshirt or cover-up may be useful and we advise wearing long sleeved items to combat mosquitoes. A light raincoat or jacket is suggested for all times of year. We also recommend bringing a reusable water bottle to cut down on plastic waste.
- Beach days: Swimming costume/suit and beach wear. A good sunscreen, sun hat and sunglasses.
- Forest days: Comfortable walking shoes (e.g., sneakers, trail running sneakers, sturdy hiking sandals) that can get wet. Comfortable walking clothes, including long hiking/walking trousers and a small day backpack.
- Walking in the rainforest: Make sure you are wearing covered footwear with a good grip, especially following wet weather, as trails can become slippery. Keep your shoes on and skin covered to avoid unwanted bites.
The official currency is the São Tomé and Príncipe Dobra (STN), but you can also use the Euro. Only Visa credit cards are widely accepted, although Mastercard and American Express can be used at HBD Príncipe hotels. It’s recommended to carry cash if you venture outside the hotels.
São Tomé e Príncipe is a year-round travel destination. The dry season, occurring from June to September, offers more favorable temperatures and reduced rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the islands, particularly for hiking on drier paths. For those seeking a beach holiday, the best times to visit are from December to March and in May. The green season is divided into two periods: April and October through November.
Visa requirements are not the same for all travellers so please read the below information carefully.
- Visas are not required for travellers from UK, USA, Canada, the EU and CPLP (Community of Portuguese Speaking Countries) if staying in the country for fewer than 15 days.
- A valid Schengen visa or a valid visa for the USA (that is present in the passport) also entitles the holder to the visa waiving program.
- All other nationalities currently require a visa.
- Visas must be obtained before arrival in São Tomé and Príncipe, through the online visa portal.
If the online service is used, documents should be printed and presented at the border. Please note there is a € 20 fee on arrival at São Tomé airport, payable in cash, for everyone who requires a visa, whether or not an online application has been completed.
