Useful Information

It has never been easier to travel to São Tomé and Príncipe, located just 35 minutes from the west coast of Africa and 1 hour and 45 minutes from the Angolan capital. Some countries have visa waiver agreements for visiting our islands, such as those in the European Union and Angola. 

For countries where a visa is required, it’s easy to obtain: you can visit one of our consulates or apply for a visa online. As you can see, there are no more excuses for not visiting the wonderful islands of São Tomé and Príncipe.

In order for a foreign national to be granted entry into São Tomé and Príncipe, they must have:

• A round-trip ticket

• Proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses of €100 per day For more information, visit the following website: http://www.smf.st/http://www.smf.st/http://www.smf.st/

A valid visa is not required if you plan to stay for less than 15 days. All European and Angolan citizens wishing to stay in the country for up to 15 days are exempt from visa requirements; however, the yellow fever vaccine is mandatory.

In accordance with the decision by the government of São Tomé and Príncipe to waive visa requirements, citizens of the Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries (CPLP), the European Union (EU), the United States of America (USA), and Canada, who hold a valid passport, may enter and stay in São Tomé and Príncipe without a visa for a period not exceeding 15 (fifteen) days.

The same exemption from entry and stay visas, for the same period, is granted to citizens of any other country, provided they meet all of the following conditions:

• Hold a passport valid for more than 3 (three) months;

• Hold a Schengen visa or a visa from the United States of America (USA).

If your stay exceeds 15 days, you can obtain a visa from the embassies and consulates of São Tomé and Príncipe.

To apply for a visa online, you can contact the São Tomé and Príncipe Migration and Border Service via:

• http://www.smf.st/

• http://www.smf.st/virtualvisa/ 

If you are unable to obtain the visa online, you can do so at the Migration and Border Service at the São Tomé airport (upon arrival).

The yellow fever vaccine is required if you have transited through or are coming from an affected country.
Please note: There is no yellow fever in São Tomé and Príncipe.

If you have visited other African countries within the last 3 months, you must present a valid international yellow fever vaccination certificate. 

Consult your doctor. No other vaccinations are required.

The local currency is the Dobra. It is available in 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, and 5 notes, as well as in 2, 1, and 0.50 coins (smaller-denomination coins are less common).

• Currency Exchange: It is recommended that you travel with euros or dollars to exchange for the Dobra (STN). You can exchange currency at hotels or banks. The exchange rate is fixed: 1 € equals 24.50 STN.

• Banks: You’ll find banks in cities in the northern and southern parts of the island.

• Payment Methods: Cash is preferred, but cards are accepted at major hotels, restaurants, and supermarkets.

• Credit cards: In some hotels (such as those in the HBD and Pestana groups), you can pay with Visa, Mastercard, and AMEX. At other establishments, you’ll need to have the amount in cash.

Important note: The original text refers to the old exchange rate (24,500 STD). Since the 2018 currency reform, the new Dobra (STN) has been in use at a fixed rate of 1 € = 24.50 STN.

Located in downtown São Tomé (Avenida Marginal, near the People's Palace and the Central Post Office).

• Hours: 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

• Saturday: 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

• Address: Avenida Marginal 12 de Julho, 1st floor, left side.

• Phone: +239 2221542

Located at the São Tomé and Príncipe International Airport.

• Hours: Always open when an international flight arrives.

São Tomé and Príncipe is renowned for its peaceful natural environment and hospitality. However, as everywhere else, laws apply and must be followed, including those governing the tourism industry. 

When planning your trip, you have a wide selection of licensed accommodations in various categories: hotels, small tourist villas, or guesthouses. All of these licensed establishments are required to display their operating license to prove their legitimacy.

Be aware that there may be unscrupulous individuals offering illegal services at lower rates. If you choose one of these establishments, you should be aware that your personal safety is not guaranteed.

Here are a few reasons why you should not stay at these places:

• Isolation: The location may be very remote, with no clear directions on how to get there, making it easy to lose your bearings, especially at night.

• Insecurity: No security measures are provided, which could lead to the theft of your personal belongings.

• Hygiene and Maintenance: Maintenance is not guaranteed; a lack of adequate sanitation and poor hygiene are common. Fire safety may also be lacking.

• Discomfort: Rooms are generally cramped, and amenities are very limited.

• Hidden Costs: The initial rate may seem attractive, but you may be overcharged for other products and services.

• Inspection upon Arrival: At the International Airport, if an immigration officer determines that your reservation is for an illegal establishment, they will require you to make a new reservation at your own expense at a legal establishment.

Practical Tips:

• Don’t hesitate to ask for a copy of the operating license when making your reservation.

• To verify whether an establishment is properly licensed, visit the official website: www.visitsaotomeprincipe.st

By making the right choice, you’ll ensure you enjoy your vacation to the fullest in a truly peaceful destination.

The voltage is 220 volts.

Tap water is treated, but it is recommended that you drink bottled water.

The international dialing code for São Tomé and Príncipe is +239.

Local carriers CST and Unitel offer mobile phone and internet plans (the 3G network is available throughout the country).

These companies have several retail locations throughout the islands.

São Tomé and Príncipe has a summer-like climate (humid equatorial) that varies little throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C.

It’s the perfect setting to enjoy fantastic beaches, fringed by lush vegetation, with water temperatures around 24°C. Among these magnificent stretches of sand are the beaches of Piscina, Jalé, Cabana, and Inhame on the island of São Tomé, as well as the famous Praia Banana on the island of Príncipe.

Heritage and Flavors

• The Roças: Discover these historic structures with colonial architecture, which evoke a unique sense of adventure and curiosity.
• Cuisine: São Toméan cuisine is rich in authentic aromas and flavors.
• Chocolate: For cocoa lovers, there’s nothing quite like visiting the chocolate shops on the island of São Tomé to sample the delicious chocolates from Diogo Vaz, Cláudio Corallo, and CECAB.

An Unforgettable
Experience Whether you want to relax by the sea or hike through a virgin forest where green reigns supreme, only in São Tomé and Príncipe will you find the vacation you’ve always dreamed of!

As for the country’s three largest supermarkets, we have:

• Super CKDO: Located in the city of São Tomé (Av. 12 de Julho, Passadeira do Hospital 753). It offers Portuguese and local products.

• Intermar: Also located in São Tomé (Rua Patrice Lumumba 865), it also carries Portuguese products.

• Coconote: Located in the capital (Av. Água Grande), it offers French products as well as local products.

• For sports enthusiasts, the National Stadium welcomes you in the evening to enjoy your favorite activities, such as walking or soccer.

• Hydration: We recommend drinking bottled water, even though the tap water is treated.

• Beauty: For those who’d like to try the famous traditional braids, there are many hair salons throughout the city.