Sao Tome & Principe-2-day-itinerary

Day 1: Island Hopping and Beach Relaxation

Morning

  • 9:00 AM - Departure from Praia Grande: Start your day with a scenic drive to the eastern part of São Tomé Island. Visit the bustling market in Praia Grande, where you can buy local fruits, vegetables, and handicrafts.
  • 10:30 AM - Santa Ana: Stop by the 16th-century Fortaleza de São João Baptista de Santa Ana (Santa Ana Fortress), which offers stunning views of the island.

Afternoon

  • 12:00 PM - Lunchtime: Enjoy local cuisine at a beachside restaurant in Praia Linda, where you can try fresh seafood and traditional dishes like cachupa.
  • 2:00 PM - Beach Relaxation: Spend the afternoon relaxing on Praia Linda’s stunning beaches or take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters.

Evening

  • 7:00 PM - Dinner: Head to Obo, a charming town with a strong Portuguese influence. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and try some of the island’s unique delicacies.
  • 9:00 PM - Sunset View: End your day by watching the sunset from a hill overlooking Obo.

Things to Know

  • São Tomé & Principe is an archipelago in the Gulf of Guinea, consisting of two main islands (São Tomé and Principe) and several smaller islands.
  • The official language is Portuguese, but many locals speak English, French, or other African languages.
  • The local currency is the Dobra (STD), although US dollars are widely accepted.

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens from most countries, including the United States, Canada, Europe, and Australia, can enter São Tomé & Principe without a visa for tourism purposes. However, it’s recommended to check with your country’s embassy or consulate for the latest requirements.
  • A valid passport with at least six months’ validity is required.

Transportation

  • Rent a 4x4 vehicle in Praia Grande to explore the island’s rugged terrain and scenic routes.
  • Public transportation is limited, but you can hire a private taxi or use local buses for shorter journeys.
  • Be prepared for bumpy roads and occasional road closures due to weather conditions.

Day 2: Principe Island Adventure

Morning

  • 9:00 AM - Departure from São Tomé: Take a ferry or charter a plane to Principe Island, the smaller of the two main islands.
  • 11:00 AM - Roça Sundy: Visit the historic Roça Sundy, a former cocoa plantation that now serves as an eco-resort. Explore the island’s lush rainforest and spot unique wildlife.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 PM - Lunchtime: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant on the island or bring a picnic to enjoy in a scenic spot.
  • 3:00 PM - Waterfalls and Swimming Holes: Visit one of Principe Island’s stunning waterfalls, such as Cascata da Fonte Maria. Take a refreshing swim in the natural swimming holes and enjoy the tranquility of the island.

Evening

  • 6:00 PM - Dinner: Return to São Tomé for dinner at a local restaurant and reflect on your incredible experiences from the past two days.
  • 8:00 PM - Departure: Head back home or continue exploring other destinations in West Africa.