Sao Tome Principe
Entry rules vary by nationality, so verify the specific regulations that concern you well in advance of your travel date. Citizens of many countries, including Schengen Area countries, the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Angola, and Mozambique, typically see visa-free entry for short stays (15-30 days).
For nationalities not covered by visa exemptions, an e-Visa offers the most common and recommended way to gain entry. Apply online through the official SERM portal. The e-Visa process involves submitting a completed form, passport copy, photo, and fee. Upon approval, a pre-authorization letter arrives via email for presentation upon arrival.
No standard entry fees beyond the visa application itself exist. Upon arrival at São Tomé International Airport (TMS), present your documents to immigration. The process unfolds simply with all required documents.
Special permits are not typically a part of standard tourist activities. For e-visas, IVisa and VisaHQ offer consumer services for visa applications.
Yellow Fever
A valid International Certificate for Yellow Fever is an entry document for travelers arriving from or transiting through risk countries. This is also a strong recommendation for all visitors to Sao Tome.
Get this vaccination at least 10 days prior to travel for effectiveness.
Copies & Storage
Keep both physical and digital copies of all important documents: passport, visa, flight details, and vaccination certificate.
Store digital copies on a cloud service and on an encrypted USB drive.
Travel Insurance
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance. Coverage should extend to medical emergencies and evacuation. Explore options from World Nomads, SafetyWing, or Insubuy.
Medical evacuation to another country (often Portugal) commonly becomes necessary for serious medical conditions given limited local facilities.
The official currency is the Sao Tome and Principe Dobra (STN), pegged to the Euro (€1 = 24.5 STN). While some larger hotels may accept Euros, Dobras see use in nearly all transactions. ATMs exist in Sao Tome city but can prove unreliable. Credit cards accept limited use; cash is the preferred payment method.
Tipping is not deeply ingrained, but it merits appreciation, notably in tourist services. For guides and drivers, €5-€10 per day per group shows a good gesture. Eating local at Leca-leca (local eateries) and using Aluguers (shared taxis) significantly lessens costs. Bringing cash and negotiating prices for private services further optimizes your budget.
€30 - €60 per day (basic guesthouse, local food, aluguers)
€60 - €150 per day (comfortable guesthouse, mix of dining, private taxis)
€150+ per day (boutique hotels, fine dining, private drivers, specialized tours)
€15-€30 (basic), €40-€80 (mid-range), €100-€300+ (luxury).
€3-€7 (local), €10-€25 (mid-range), €30-€60+ (fine dining).
Sao Tome offers a spectrum of travel costs. While not notably expensive by Western standards, some goods and services can be costly due to import reliance. Cash remains a main payment method.
Fares for various modes of transport:
Entry fees for various attractions:
Comprehensive travel insurance is a strong recommendation. It should cover medical emergencies, medical evacuation, trip cancellation, lost baggage, and personal liability. Resources like AirHelp can also assist with flight compensation claims.
