Sao Tome Principe
Sao Tome caters to different preferences, with options beyond standard hotels.
Common and family-run, these offer basic to comfortable rooms, good value for budget travelers.
Mainly in Sao Tome city, these have air conditioning, private bathrooms, and sometimes a pool.
Higher-end options, often along the coast or in renovated roças, for unique, secluded stays.
Limited but growing, mostly in Sao Tome city, with self-catering and more space.
Converted colonial plantation houses, providing charm and a link to agricultural heritage.
In remote natural settings, these focus on sustainability and nature immersion.
Less developed but available through local contacts for cultural interaction.
Organized camping facilities are not widely available for tourists. Eco-lodges are the closest option.
Your choice of location shapes your Sao Tome experience, whether urban, coastal, or rural.
Sao Tome is generally safe. Exercise standard precautions. In crowded city market areas, watch personal belongings. At night, a taxi is advisable if returning outside the well-lit city core. Remote roças are typically very safe due to their secluded nature.
The city center has the best proximity to urban attractions, banks, and main transport for aluguers and taxis. Coastal areas and roças are quieter, but distance to amenities varies.
Booking ahead secures your desired accommodation, especially during peak travel times.
Negotiation is not common for established hotels. For basic guesthouses, slight negotiation on walk-in rates might be possible, but it is not a strong cultural custom.
Policies vary. Check deposit requirements and cancellation policies carefully. Smaller properties might ask for a non-refundable deposit.
Information on accessibility features might be limited. Contact properties directly for specific needs.
This guide helps you select accommodation based on your budget and preferences.
Guesthouses (e.g., Residencial Alameda)
Mid-range hotels (e.g., Hotel Residencial Avenida)
Roças (e.g., Roça São João dos Angolares, Roça Monte Café)
Resorts (e.g., Pestana São Tomé, Omali São Tomé)
Sao Tome city. Value, central location, clean, friendly environment.
Sao Tome city. Decent comfort, often includes good breakfast, well-located.
South of Sao Tome island. Famous culinary experience, charming colonial architecture. Book ahead.
Pestana (city) with comprehensive facilities. Omali (near airport) for beach access.
Resorts like Pestana São Tomé have pools and larger grounds. Vacation rentals or apartments offer more space and self-catering.
Guesthouses for meeting people. Smaller boutique hotels for safety and personalized service. A roça stay for a peaceful retreat.
For longer than a week, inquire about weekly or monthly rates at vacation rentals or guesthouses. Dedicated long-stay apartments are rare.
Converted roças (e.g., Roça Monte Café, Roçan Agostinho Neto, Roça São João dos Angolares) for a deep dive into island heritage.
Accommodation options are varied, but not limitless. Prioritize your budget and experience desires.
Location impacts transport. City stays mean easy access to taxis and aluguers. Remote roças often need pre-arranged transport or a rental car.
Many guesthouses are family-run, offering a warm welcome and personal attention. This interaction enriches your stay.
Staying outside the city often connects you directly with Sao Tome's stunning natural environment and tranquility.
Choose a roçan or homestay for a true deep dive into island life and agricultural heritage.
