You have the questions, we have the answers
We want your travel planning to run as smoothly as possible. Please find comprehensive information below about everything from visas to the islands’ weather, as well as some of the most frequently asked questions.
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About us
Príncipe Collection is the hospitality branch of HBD Prìncipe, operating four sustainable hotels on the islands of São Tomé and Príncipe.
HBD Príncipe is an ecotourism and agriculture business based in Príncipe, an island off the west coast of Africa, with a vision of the sustainable social and economic development in Príncipe and conservation of the island’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Príncipe’s nature and communities make it different; and we have a differentiated commitment to protecting them. HBD Príncipe believes that we have the opportunity and responsibility to disrupt the status quo: our mission is to become a global inspiration through sustainable integrated ecotourism, agroforestry, support services, and social initiatives.
Moreover, how we operate – by striving to minimise negative effects and increase positive contributions – is essential. In essence, this is sustainability; the HBD Príncipe team considers the direct impact and ramifications that our actions and decisions have on our vision, our operations, and the Biosphere Reserve – today and in the future.
One thing we know for certain is that this work takes time. While the HBD Príncipe team is hard at work and making progress, we still have more to do to achieve our goals.
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.
Accommodation and Amenities
While we love animals, pets are not allowed in the Prìncipe Collection hotels to ensure the comfort of all our guests.
Standard check-out time at all our hotels is 11:00 AM. For late check-out at Sundy Praia, it will depend on availability. At Omaly, Roça Sundy, and Bom Bom, late check-out is subject to availability and price. Please contact our guest service desk the day before your departure, and we will be happy to assist you with your request if possible.
Yes, our cancellation policy varies by booking type. Please refer to your booking confirmation for specific details or contact our reservations team for assistance at reservations [at] principecollection.com.
We accept various payment methods, including major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, and AMEX) and cash in both local currency and Euro.
Yes, complimentary WiFi is available throughout all hotel premises, ensuring you stay connected during your visit.
Yes, we have on-site restaurants offering a variety of local and international cuisine, as well as bars where guests can unwind.
Yes, a complimentary breakfast is always included.
Príncipe Collection offers a range of accommodations, including luxury villas (Sundy Praia), beachfront bungalows (Bom Bom), and comfortable hotel rooms (Roça Sundy and Omali Sāo Tomé), each designed to provide a relaxing and enjoyable stay.
Sundy Praia
Roça Sundy and Sundy Praia are about 2 kilometres apart, linked by a beautiful walking trail that takes about 30 minutes to complete. If you would like to walk only one way, you can enquire at reception about free transfers and availability.
Our guest services desk will be pleased to confirm your late checkout, depending on availability. Kindly reach out to us the day before your departure.
One-bedroom tented villas have an indoor lounge area, as well as a wraparound deck outside. The indoor space is 70m2 and the outdoor areas are 50m2.
Two-bedroom villas are ideal for families and friends staying together and are comprised of two one-bedroom villas with a bedroom and lounge area, that share a large outdoor deck. Indoor space is 110m2 and the outdoor areas are 100m2.
Three-bedroom villas comprise three, one-bedroom villas (bedroom and lounge area), that share a large outdoor deck. Three-bed villas come with their own private pools (10m x 4.5m) and indoor space is 150m2 and the outdoor areas are 140m2.
All master bedrooms at Sundy Praia have King-size beds and are not able to be made into Twins. In the two- and three-bed villas, the secondary bedrooms may have Queen-size or Twin-size beds; please enquire for details.
Bom Bom
Yes, in a pool view or beachfront bungalow.
You may request a road transfer to Roça Sundy (30 min) and Sundy Praia (45 min).
Subject to availability and cost. Standard check-out at Bom Bom is 11:00 AM.
Roça Sundy
Roça Sundy and Sundy Praia are about 2 kilometres apart, linked by a beautiful walking trail that takes about 20 minutes to complete. If you would like to walk only one way, you can enquire at reception about free transfers and availability.
Subject to availability and cost. Standard check-out at is 11:00 AM.
Eclipse House is the main building at Roça Sundy, in which the restaurant and lobby are located. The house has three rooms with panoramic views on the first floor, all with their own private balconies. Two of these rooms are interconnecting. On the ground floor, there are a further three rooms: one master suite, and two rooms with garden views.
In Cacao House, the adjacent building, there are nine rooms and a conference room. These rooms are slightly smaller than those in Eclipse House and there are four Yard rooms, four Panoramic rooms with a balcony and view of the landscape, and one Cacao Suite.
All rooms at Roça Sundy have Queen-size beds and Twins are not available. In some room types, an additional single bed may be added. There are also two interconnecting rooms available.
Omali
Standard check-out at all hotels is 11:00 AM. At Omali, late check-outs and day-use of the room can be arranged subject to availability and cost.
There are 10 Classic Rooms, which are 20m2, and 10 Premier Rooms, which have an added living room and balcony, with 45m2 of space. Suites also have 45m2 of space and have a small seating area, whilst the Family Suites are the largest, with 55m2 of space and accommodation for four people in a double bed and two single beds.
All Classic Rooms have Queen-size beds. Premier and Family Rooms have King-size beds or Twins. All Suites have King-size beds. Unfortunately, these configurations cannot be changed.
Activities and Services
Transportation options include rental cars, taxis, and local motorcycles, with the latter being a budget-friendly and common choice for locals. STP Airways and Afrijet provide flight services between the islands.
There are several delicious options for lunch on Príncipe Island, serving a variety of cuisines. In Santo António, try Romar for its traditional flavours with a modern touch, Juditinha Restaurant (owned by the wonderful Juditinha) for specialties from the sea, or Barbosa, serving traditional dishes cooked on a wooden stove.
We provide a range of activities at our hotels, such as guided nature hikes, snorkelling, and cultural excursions that showcase the vibrant heritage of São Tomé and Príncipe.
Check out our packages for Bom Bom, Sundy Praia, and Roça Sundy, which include daily experiences.
São Tomé and Príncipe offer several must-see attractions, including:
- Obo National Park: Breathtaking rainforests and diverse wildlife.
- São Sebastião Fortress: A historic site in São Tomé.
- Local Market: Experience the vibrant local culture.
- Príncipe Island Beaches: Stunning beaches like Praia Boi and Bom Bom Resort.
- Pico de São Tomé: A majestic hike for panoramic views.
- São Tomé City: Discover charming colonial architecture.
- Coffee and Cocoa Plantations: A treat for those interested in the islands’ agricultural heritage.
Safety and Communication
Our staff is multilingual, with English, Portuguese, and French spoken to ensure effective communication with all guests.
Portuguese is the official language, while some people in tourist areas speak English and French.
Yes, it is generally considered safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken regarding personal belongings.
Health and Environmental Awareness
A nurse is available at our hotels should any medical assistance be required.
Yellow Fever
If you have visited or traveled through any other African country (Excluding connecting flights, without disembarking ) in the three months prior to your arrival in São Tomé and Príncipe, you must present a valid "International Certificate of Vaccination" against yellow fever at the São Tomé airport.
Malária
There have been no recorded deaths from malaria in São Tomé and Príncipe since 2014. However, a portion of the population lives with malaria, and the country is considered a malaria zone by most health authorities. It is advisable to consult your doctor about the possibility of taking anti-malarial treatment before traveling.
Always apply insect repellent, preferably one that contains 50% DEET, and wear long-sleeved clothing at dawn and dusk to avoid mosquito bites.
No other vaccines are required.
However, it is recommended to consult a travel medicine specialist before arrival, especially for guidance on malaria.
While the islands are largely pristine, visitors should practise sustainable tourism by minimising waste and avoiding disturbance to local wildlife and ecosystems.
Basic healthcare services are available, but it's recommended to have travel insurance and carry any essential medications, as advanced medical facilities are limited.