· ST

São Tomé

Sao Tome, Agua Grande, Sao Tome and Principe

Escape to Paradise: Discover the Untouched Beauty of São Tomé Step onto the shores of São Tomé, the captivating capital of São Tomé and Príncipe, and be transported to a world of untouched beauty and captivating culture.…

#Island#Tropical#Portuguese-speaking#Colonial architecture#Beach destination

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into São Tomé.

Top Hotels in São Tomé

Top Flights to São Tomé

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in São Tomé.

Tours

Explore Obo National Park

Discover the lush biodiversity and stunning landscapes of Obo National Park, a haven for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.

City Tour of São Tomé

A guided tour through the key historic and cultural landmarks of São Tomé city.

Shopping

Visit Mercado Municipal

Experience local culture, food, and crafts at São Tomé’s bustling main market.

Outdoor

Dive at Ilheu das Rolas

Enjoy breathtaking underwater adventures at Ilheu das Rolas with diverse marine life and coral reefs.

Climb Mount São Tomé

Take on an adventurous trek to the highest peak in São Tomé.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in São Tomé.

Currency

Db | STN | São Tomé and Príncipe Dobra

Population

Information not available.

Languages

Portuguese, Portuguese

Average weather

São Tomé

Jan

30°23°

Feb

30°23°

Mar

30°23°

Apr

30°23°

May

29°22°

Jun

28°21°

Jul

27°20°

Aug

27°20°

Sep

28°21°

Oct

29°22°

Nov

29°22°

Dec

30°23°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on São Tomé.

What people love

São Tomé, the capital city of São Tomé and Príncipe, offers a unique and enriching travel experience. Here are some pros of traveling to São Tomé:

Stunning Natural Beauty: São Tomé is known for its lush tropical landscapes, pristine beaches, and volcanic peaks. Travelers can explore beautiful waterfalls, dense rainforests, and picturesque plantations.
Rich Cultural Heritage: The city of São Tomé boasts a blend of Portuguese and African cultures, reflected in its architecture, cuisine, music, and art. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by visiting historical sites, attending festivals, and interacting with friendly locals.
Adventure Opportunities: São Tomé offers a range of outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts, including hiking, birdwatching, diving, and fishing. The island's diverse ecosystems provide ample opportunities for exploration and discovery.
Peaceful Atmosphere: São Tomé is known for its laid-back and peaceful ambiance, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and rejuvenation. Travelers can unwind on the pristine beaches, enjoy fresh seafood, and soak up the tranquil island vibes.
Sustainable Tourism: São Tomé is committed to sustainable tourism practices, with a focus on preserving its natural environment and supporting local communities. Travelers can feel good knowing that their visit contributes to the conservation of this unique destination.

Overall, traveling to São Tomé offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, adventure opportunities, and a peaceful atmosphere, making it a rewarding destination for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to São Tomé in São Tomé and Príncipe include:

Limited infrastructure: São Tomé is a small island nation with limited infrastructure, which can result in challenges with transportation, accommodations, and communication.
Health and safety concerns: São Tomé has a higher risk of diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and other tropical illnesses. It is important to take necessary precautions and vaccinations before traveling.
Language barrier: The official language of São Tomé and Príncipe is Portuguese, and while some locals may speak English or French, communication can still be a challenge for travelers who do not speak Portuguese.
Limited tourist amenities: São Tomé is not as developed for tourism as other destinations, so travelers may find fewer amenities, attractions, and activities compared to more popular tourist destinations.
High cost of living: Prices for goods and services in São Tomé can be relatively high due to its remote location and limited resources, which may impact the overall cost of a trip.
Political instability: São Tomé has experienced political instability and occasional unrest in the past, which can potentially affect travelers' safety and travel plans.

Please note that the situation in São Tomé may change, so it is advisable to check for updated travel advisories and information before planning your trip.

São Tomé, the capital city of São Tomé and Príncipe, is located on the northeastern coast of the island of São Tomé, in the Água Grande district. The city has a rich history that reflects the broader historical context of the islands, which were first discovered and colonized by the Portuguese in the late 15th century.

Early History and Colonial Era:

Discovery and Settlement: São Tomé was discovered by Portuguese explorers João de Santarém and Pêro Escobar around 1470, during their exploration of the West African coast. The island was uninhabited at the time. The Portuguese began to settle São Tomé around 1485, establishing a colonial presence.
Sugar Plantation Era: During the 16th century, the islands became a significant location for sugar plantations, using enslaved Africans as labor. São Tomé was one of the first African territories to engage in this kind of plantation economy, which later influenced other colonies.
Slave Trade: São Tomé played a role in the transatlantic slave trade, both as a site of plantations and as a point of transit for enslaved Africans being sent to the Americas.

19th and 20th Centuries:

Decline of Sugar and Rise of Cocoa and Coffee: By the 19th century, sugar production declined, and cocoa and coffee became the primary exports. São Tomé and Príncipe became one of the world's largest producers of cocoa during this time.
Struggle for Independence: In the mid-20th century, movements for independence from Portuguese colonial rule began to gain momentum. The Movimento de Libertação de São Tomé e Príncipe (MLSTP) was the primary political movement pushing for independence.
Independence: São Tomé and Príncipe gained independence from Portugal on July 12, 1975. Manuel Pinto da Costa became the first president of the new nation.

Significant Events and Figures:

Manuel Pinto da Costa: As the first president, Pinto da Costa played a crucial role in shaping the newly independent country's early years.
Miguel Trovoada: Another significant political figure, who served as Prime Minister and later as President, contributing to the political landscape post-independence.

Landmarks and Cultural Sites in São Tomé:

São Sebastião Museum: Housed in a 16th-century fortress, this museum offers insights into the colonial history of the islands.
Presidential Palace: A historical building and the official residence of the president, located in the city center.
Our Lady of Grace Cathedral (Sé Catedral de Nossa Senhora da Graça): Built in the 16th century, it is one of the oldest cathedrals in Africa, reflecting the colonial architectural style.
Boca do Inferno: A natural blowhole near São Tomé, offering scenic views and a popular tourist attraction.

São Tomé, as the capital city, continues to be the political, cultural, and economic center of São Tomé and Príncipe, maintaining its historical significance while evolving with modern developments.