Sao Tome & Principe-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in São Tomé

  • Arrive at São Tomé International Airport (TMS)
  • Visa requirements: Citizens of most countries need a visa to enter São Tomé. You can obtain an e-visa online or purchase one on arrival.
  • Transportation: Taxi from the airport to your accommodation should cost around 10-15 USD
  • Place to go: Check-in at your hotel in the capital city, São Tomé
  • Activity: Explore the city, visit the Fortaleza de São Sebastião and the Museum of São Tomé and Principe

Day 2: Explore the capital

  • Breakfast at a local café (try some fresh fruit and coffee)
  • Visit the Mercado das Pequenas (small market) to see the local produce
  • Walk around the city, visit the Church of São Sebastião and the Cathedral
  • Activity: Take a taxi or walk to the nearby village of Trindade (5-10 minutes)
  • Lunch: Try some traditional São Tomé cuisine at a local restaurant

Day 3: Visit Obo National Park

  • Transportation: Hire a guide and driver for the day (around 50-60 USD per person)
  • Place to go: Explore the stunning beaches, forests and wildlife of Obo National Park
  • Activity: Take a guided hike through the forest, spot some monkeys and birds
  • Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park

Day 4: Visit Principe Island

  • Transportation: Fly from São Tomé to Principe Island (around 1 hour)
  • Place to go: Explore the island’s beautiful beaches and forests
  • Activity: Visit the Santa Luzia Beach, take a hike through the forest and enjoy snorkeling or swimming
  • Lunch: Try some seafood at a local restaurant

Day 5: Explore the island

  • Breakfast at a local café (try some fresh fruit and coffee)
  • Visit the Principe Island Museum to learn about the island’s history and culture
  • Activity: Take a guided tour of the island, visit the waterfalls and explore the surrounding forests
  • Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach

Day 6: Return to São Tomé

  • Transportation: Fly back from Principe Island to São Tomé (around 1 hour)
  • Place to go: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions
  • Activity: Relax at your hotel, enjoy a farewell dinner and prepare for departure

Things to know

  • Language: Portuguese is the official language, but many locals also speak São Toméan Creole.
  • Currency: The São Toméan dobra (STD) is the local currency. However, USD are widely accepted.
  • Weather: The climate is tropical, with high temperatures and humidity levels throughout the year.
  • Safety: São Tomé is generally a safe country to visit, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Additional tips

  • Be prepared for occasional power outages and water shortages.
  • Try some local cuisine, which often features fresh seafood and traditional dishes like calulu (a spicy stew).
  • Don’t miss the opportunity to take a guided tour or rent a car to explore the country’s stunning natural beauty.