Things to Do in São Tomé

São Tomé, São Tomé e Príncipe - Complete Travel Guide

São Tomé, the vibrant capital of São Tomé and Príncipe, is a charming colonial city that serves as the gateway to this fascinating island nation in the Gulf of Guinea. The city blends Portuguese colonial architecture with African influences, creating a unique atmosphere where pastel-colored buildings line palm-fringed streets and bustling markets overflow with tropical fruits and local crafts. As the largest city on the island, São Tomé offers visitors a perfect introduction to Santomean culture, with its relaxed pace of life, friendly locals, and rich history as a former Portuguese colony. The city sits on the northeastern coast of São Tomé Island, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and dramatic volcanic peaks. Beyond its role as the political and economic center, São Tomé serves as an excellent base for exploring the island's pristine beaches, cocoa plantations, and rainforest reserves. The city's waterfront area buzzes with activity as fishing boats return with their daily catch, while the historic center showcases beautiful examples of colonial architecture, including the impressive Cathedral of São Tomé and the Presidential Palace.

Top Things to Do in São Tomé

Explore the Historic City Center

Wander through São Tomé's colonial heart, admiring the Portuguese architecture and visiting landmarks like the Cathedral of São Tomé, built in the 16th century, and the Presidential Palace. The historic center features colorful colonial buildings, charming squares, and important cultural sites that tell the story of the island's colonial past and independence.

Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration is free and best done in the morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat. Consider hiring a local guide for 15-20 euros for deeper historical insights and access to buildings that might otherwise be closed.

Visit Mercado Grande Central Market

Immerse yourself in local life at São Tomé's main market, where vendors sell everything from tropical fruits and vegetables to handmade crafts and traditional textiles. The market offers an authentic glimpse into daily Santomean life and is the best place to sample local produce like breadfruit, jackfruit, and fresh fish.

Booking Tip: Visit early morning (7-9 AM) for the freshest produce and most active atmosphere. Bring small denominations of dobra currency and be prepared to negotiate prices. Budget 10-15 euros for souvenirs and local snacks.

Cocoa Plantation Tour

Discover São Tomé's rich cocoa heritage with visits to historic plantations (roças) around the island, learning about chocolate production from bean to bar. These tours often include colonial-era plantation houses, processing facilities, and opportunities to taste fresh cocoa and locally made chocolate.

Booking Tip: Book through local tour operators for 40-60 euros per person including transportation and guide. Tours run year-round but are most interesting during harvest season (May-September). Choose operators that include multiple plantations for a comprehensive experience.

Lagoa Azul Beach Excursion

Take a day trip to one of São Tomé's most beautiful beaches, known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and pristine white sand. The beach offers excellent swimming, snorkeling opportunities, and stunning views of the surrounding coastline and tropical vegetation.

Booking Tip: Arrange transportation through your hotel or local taxi drivers for 30-40 euros round trip. Bring your own snorkeling gear, sunscreen, and refreshments as facilities are limited. Best visited on weekdays to avoid crowds.

Sunset at Ilhéu das Cabras

Experience breathtaking sunsets from this small rocky islet just off São Tomé's coast, accessible by a short boat ride or during low tide on foot. The location offers panoramic views of the city skyline and surrounding ocean, making it a perfect romantic spot or photography location.

Booking Tip: Local fishermen offer boat transfers for 10-15 euros per person, or walk during low tide (check tide tables). Bring a flashlight for the return journey after dark and wear sturdy shoes for rocky terrain. Best experienced 1 hour before sunset.

Getting There

São Tomé is accessible via São Tomé International Airport (TMS), located about 6 kilometers from the city center. TAP Air Portugal operates regular flights from Lisbon with connections from major European cities, while STP Airways provides regional connections from Libreville, Gabon, and other West African destinations. The flight from Lisbon takes approximately 6 hours. From the airport, taxis charge around 10-15 euros to reach the city center, or you can arrange hotel transfers in advance.

Getting Around

Getting around São Tomé city is relatively easy on foot for the central areas, as most attractions are within walking distance of each other. Taxis are readily available and affordable, with short trips within the city costing 3-5 euros. For longer distances or day trips around the island, negotiate with taxi drivers for full-day rates (40-60 euros) or rent a car, though roads can be challenging outside the city. Local shared taxis (hiaces) connect São Tomé with other parts of the island for budget-friendly travel.

Where to Stay

City Center Historic District

Waterfront Area

Airport Road

Ana Chaves Bay

Quinta Santo António

Pantufo District

Food & Dining

São Tomé's dining scene reflects its Portuguese colonial heritage and African influences, with fresh seafood being the highlight of most menus. Local specialties include calulu (fish stew with vegetables), grilled tuna, and tropical fruits like breadfruit and jackfruit. The city center offers several restaurants serving both local and international cuisine, with prices ranging from 8-15 euros for main courses. Street food vendors sell grilled fish, tropical fruits, and local snacks at very affordable prices. Many restaurants are casual affairs with outdoor seating, and it's common to find live music accompanying dinner.

When to Visit

The best time to visit São Tomé is during the dry season from June to September, when rainfall is minimal and temperatures are more comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The weather remains tropical year-round with temperatures averaging 24-28°C, but the wet season (October to May) brings heavy rainfall and higher humidity. However, the wet season also offers lush green landscapes and is ideal for seeing waterfalls at their most impressive. The cocoa harvest season (May to September) is particularly interesting for plantation visits.

Insider Tips

Exchange money at banks rather than hotels for better rates, and always carry small denominations as change can be difficult to obtain

Learn basic Portuguese phrases as English is not widely spoken outside of hotels and tourist areas

Respect local customs by dressing modestly when visiting religious sites and always ask permission before photographing people