Rainforest, shrouded mountains and turquoise shores welcome travellers to São Tomé and Príncipe, a tiny two-island nation and a true lost world. Almost untouched by tourism, those who do reach these West African islands find a warm welcome, thriving natural wonders, and adventure on tap.
Capital city
São Tomé
Currency
Saotomese Dobra (some larger hotels may accept Euros or US Dollars).
Cuisine
The surrounding tropical waters mean fresh seafood is top of most menus across both islands, with stews, curries and Portuguese inspired piri-piri bringing the flavour. A must-try is the local chocolate, produced from delicious world-class cacao.
Tipping etiquette
Not always expected, tips are nonetheless often appreciated in São Tomé.
Saying hello
Portuguese is the official language of São Tomé, so hello becomes a simple ‘Olá’.
Skirting both the equator and the Greenwich Meridian, São Tomé is as central as it gets – which means warm, tropical weather all year round. The driest months are June to September, with rainy season coming twice a year; February to May, and October to December. Keen divers will find the best visibility between December and March.
Once you’ve explored the colourful cultural of São Tomé, take a propeller plane across to smaller Príncipe – the entire island is a UNESCO biosphere, bursting with life.
