Sao Tome Principe 6 Day Itinerary

Sao Tome & Principe 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Sao Tome City

  • Arrival: Fly into São Tomé International Airport (TMS) via Lisbon or Accra. No visa is required for US citizens, but a valid passport and proof of onward travel are necessary.
  • Accommodation: Check-in to a hotel in the city center, such as Hotel Pousada Boa Vista or Hotel Avenida.
  • Explore Sao Tome City:
    • Visit the Fortaleza de São Sebastião, a historic fort that now houses the National Museum.
    • Walk along the waterfront and admire the colonial architecture.
    • Try some local cuisine at one of the many restaurants in the city.

Day 2: Beaches and Waterfalls

  • Morning: Head to Praia Micondo, a stunning beach with crystal-clear waters. Relax and enjoy the sun, sea, and sand.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Cascada Sao Nicolau, a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation.
  • Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood at a local restaurant.

Day 3: Roça São João and Monte Café

  • Morning: Drive to Roça São João, a former coffee plantation that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Afternoon: Visit Monte Café, another historic coffee plantation with beautiful gardens and a museum.
  • Evening: Return to Sao Tome City and enjoy a relaxing evening.

Day 4: Principe Island

  • Morning: Take a ferry or flight to Principe Island (approximately 1-hour journey).
  • Explore Principe:
    • Visit the Santo António, the capital of Principe.
    • Explore the island’s beautiful beaches, such as Praia Banana and Praia Macaco.
    • Enjoy snorkeling or diving to see the incredible marine life.

Day 5: Bom Bom Island

  • Morning: Take a boat trip to Bom Bom Island, known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters.
  • Relax on the beach: Spend the day relaxing and enjoying water activities, such as kayaking or paddleboarding.
  • Evening: Return to Principe Island and enjoy a seafood dinner.

Day 6: Departure

  • Morning: Return to Sao Tome City by ferry or flight (approximately 1-hour journey).
  • Departure: Fly back home from São Tomé International Airport (TMS).

Things to Know

  • The official language is Portuguese, but many locals also speak Forro and French.
  • The local currency is the Dobra (STD), although Euros are widely accepted.
  • Sao Tome & Principe is a tropical country with high temperatures and humidity year-round. Pack light, breathable clothing and sunscreen.

Transportation

  • Taxis are widely available in Sao Tome City and Principe Island.
  • Renting a car or scooter can be arranged through local tour operators.
  • Ferries and flights connect Sao Tome City to Principe Island.

Tips and Essentials

  • Bring insect repellent, sunscreen, and light, breathable clothing.
  • Try local dishes, such as calulu, a stew made with fish or meat, and arroz de peixe, a rice dish with fish.
  • Respect the local environment and culture by not littering and removing any coral or shells from the beaches.

This itinerary provides a mix of culture, history, nature, and relaxation, giving you a well-rounded experience of Sao Tome & Principe.