Sao Tome & Principe 7 Day Itinerary

Sao Tome & Principe 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Sao Tome

  • Arrive at São Tomé International Airport (TMS)
  • Take a taxi or shuttle to your hotel in the capital city, São Tomé
  • Spend the day exploring the city:
    • Visit the Fortaleza de São Sebastião, a historic fort that now serves as a museum
    • Walk through the Mercado Central, a bustling marketplace filled with local produce and handicrafts
    • Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants serving traditional São Toméan cuisine

Day 2: São Tomé Island Exploration

  • Take a guided tour to Pico Cão Grande, a stunning peak with breathtaking views
  • Visit Roça São João, a historic coffee plantation that offers insight into the island’s colonial past
  • Relax on Praia Micoló, one of the island’s most beautiful beaches
  • Try some local fruits, such as bananas and coconuts, at a roadside stall

Day 3: Principe Island Adventure

  • Take a ferry to Principe Island (approximately 2 hours)
  • Visit Santo António, the capital city of Principe, and explore its charming streets
  • Go hiking in Obo National Park, home to lush rainforests and stunning waterfalls
  • Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant serving fresh seafood

Day 4: Principe Island Relaxation

  • Spend the day relaxing on Praia Banana, one of Principe’s most beautiful beaches
  • Take a snorkeling or diving trip to explore the island’s vibrant marine life (optional)
  • Visit Roça Belo Monte, a historic plantation that offers stunning views and insight into the island’s history

Day 5: São Tomé Island Return

  • Return to São Tomé Island by ferry (approximately 2 hours)
  • Visit Monte Café, a scenic viewpoint with stunning views of the surrounding landscape
  • Explore the São Tomé Botanical Garden, home to a variety of tropical plants and flowers

Day 6: Cultural Immersion

  • Attend a traditional São Toméan dance performance (optional)
  • Visit Mercado de Artesanato, a marketplace selling local handicrafts and souvenirs
  • Take a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional São Toméan dishes (optional)

Day 7: Departure

  • Spend the morning shopping for last-minute souvenirs or exploring the city
  • Depart from São Tomé International Airport (TMS)

Things to Know

  • Visa Requirements: Citizens of many countries can obtain a visa on arrival, but it’s recommended to check with the São Toméan embassy or consulate before traveling.
  • Transportation: Taxis and shuttles are widely available, but renting a car or hiring a private driver may be more convenient for exploring the islands.
  • Language: Portuguese is the official language, but many locals also speak French and English.
  • Currency: The São Toméan dobra (STD) is the local currency, but euros and US dollars are widely accepted.

Health and Safety

  • Vaccinations: Consult your doctor or a travel clinic about recommended vaccinations before traveling to São Tomé & Principe.
  • Safety: Take normal precautions to ensure your personal safety, such as avoiding traveling alone at night and keeping valuables secure.

Accommodation

  • Hotels: A range of hotels are available in São Tomé city and on Principe Island, from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts.
  • Guesthouses: Local guesthouses, known as “pensões”, offer a more authentic experience and are often cheaper than hotels.

This itinerary provides a mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation, but feel free to customize it based on your interests and preferences!