Sao Tome Principe 2 Day Itinerary

São Tomé & Príncipe: A 2-Day Itinerary

This itinerary focuses on exploring the island of São Tomé, assuming you’re starting in and around the capital city, São Tomé.

Things to know:

  • São Tomé & Príncipe is a Portuguese-speaking island nation off the coast of Central Africa.
  • While Portuguese is the official language, many locals speak creole languages, so knowing basic phrases like “hello” (olá) and “thank you” (obrigado/a) can be helpful.
  • The islands are known for their lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and unique biodiversity.

Day 1: Colonial History & City Life

  • Morning: Start your day with a visit to the São Tomé City Center. Explore the charming colonial architecture of the Cathedral of São Tomé, the Fort São Sebastião, and the historical Sao Tome Museum.

    • Things to remember:

      • Currency: The official currency is the Dobra (STN), but the Euro (EUR) is widely accepted.
      • Food: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant like “Restaurante Mar Azul” for fresh seafood and traditional cuisine. For a sweet treat, try the “bolo de coco” (coconut cake) – a local delicacy.

  • Afternoon: Head to the beach! São Tomé boasts beautiful beaches with calm waters.

    • Option 1: Relax on Praia Grande
      • This beach is perfect for swimming and sunbathing due to its gentle waves and soft sand.
      • Transportation: Taxi or taxi-bus (shared taxis) are readily available to take you to the beaches around São Tomé City.

  • Evening: Explore the vibrant nightlife of São Tomé & Príncipe.

    • Activity: Enjoy a traditional dinner and live music at “Restaurante Papagaio” in the city, followed by a night of dancing and drinks.
    • Things to know: Many restaurants have live music options on weekends.

  • Things to see & do:

Food & Drink:

  • Dinner:

Coffee:

  • Experience a coffee plantation tour at “Roca Cacao Plantation** and learn about the process of growing and harvesting this island’s famous commodity.

Things to consider:

  • Time: Allow ample time for travel as transportation can be unreliable and distances are often longer than expected.
  • Weather: Check the weather forecast before you go, as São Tomé & Príncipe has a tropical climate with rainy seasons that can impact travel plans.

Other activities:

  • Visit the Museum of the Sao Tome Coffee Plantation (Plantation Museum):

Enjoy a scenic drive to the Sao Tome Airport:

  • Transportation:
    • Getting Around:
      • Taxis are readily available in São Tomé & Príncipe, but negotiate prices beforehand as they are not metered.
      • Taxi-buses (shared taxis) are a popular and affordable way to get around.
    • Accommodation:
      • Consider staying in the charming and historic city center of São Tomé City.

Things to do:

  • Explore the Natural Beauty: * Visit the Sao Tome Botanical Gardens: Discover unique flora and fauna, including a variety of exotic plants and flowers.
  • Relax at a local “Casa de Chá” (tea house): Enjoy the fresh air and admire the lush greenery surrounding you.
  • Take a dip in the ocean:

Accommodation:

  • Stay near the beach: This will allow you to enjoy the island’s natural beauty.

  • Food & Drink:

    • Enjoy a local “Barbecue” experience: Many restaurants and street vendors offer delicious barbecue dishes, a must-try for the authentic taste of São Tomé.

Things to do:

  • Visit the National Museum of Sao Tome: Explore the history of the island nation through artifacts and exhibits.
  • Explore the natural beauty: Take a hike through the rainforest, swim in the turquoise waters, or relax on the pristine beaches.

Food & Drink:

  • Sample local delicacies:

Things to know:

  • Transportation:

    • Taxi-buses: The most common form of public transportation.

  • Accommodation:

  • Catch a ferry to the other islands:

Day 1:

  • Morning: Explore the tranquil beaches and soak up the sun at Praia Jardim, a beautiful beach with calm waters, ideal for swimming and relaxing.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy a delicious traditional meal in a charming “Casa de Chá” (traditional restaurant) in a local village.

Other things to do:

  • Visit the Plantation of São Tomé: Learn about the history of cocoa cultivation and experience the unique charm of a historical cocoa plantation.

  • Explore the island’s colonial past:

  • Discover the diverse wildlife:

Things to know:

  • Transportation: Get around by local bus or hiring a taxi.
  • Accommodation: Find a restaurant with a traditional ambiance and enjoy local dishes while immersing yourself in the culture of the islands.

Day 2:

  • Morning: Explore the island’s diverse wildlife at the São Tomé National Park.

  • Things to do:

  • Enjoy nature walks: Discover the beauty of the rainforest and its waterfalls.

  • Other things to do:

  • Visit the Pico Cão Grande: Hike to the top of this majestic peak for stunning views.

Remember:

  • Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites.

  • Ask permission before taking photos of people:

  • Learn a few basic phrases in Portuguese:

  • “Take a hike” through the streets and markets:

  • Things to see:

  • Visit local markets: Experience the vibrant culture and sample the unique flavors of São Tomé.

Other things to do:

  • Explore local villages: Experience the authentic charm and culture of the island, interact with locals and learn about their way of life.

Day 2:

  • Things to see and do:
    • Visit the Mercado Central (central market) in São Tomé: Immerse yourself in the local market scene.
    • Experience the local cuisine: Try “bolo de milho” (cornbread), “cabrilla” (a type of fish) grilled over charcoal, or enjoy a traditional “cafézinho” (strong coffee) experience.

Things to know:

  • Be aware of your surroundings: Keep in mind that São Tomé & Príncipe is a developing country and exercise caution in crowded areas and at night.
  • Negotiate prices for goods and services: Bargaining is common practice in local markets.

Other things to do:

  • Take a boat trip: Explore the stunning coastline and see dolphins, whales (in season) and other marine life.
  • Enjoy a “café de manhã” (breakfast):
  • Experience the nightlife:

Day 2:

  • Go on a guided tour: Visit a local plantation for a glimpse into São Tomé & Príncipe’s history of coffee, cocoa, and coffee production.

  • Enjoy a traditional “churrasco” (barbecue) with locals.

  • Currency:

  • Safety:

Remember:

  • Respect the local currency:

  • Be mindful of cultural sensitivities: Avoid wearing revealing clothing when visiting churches or religious sites.

Transportation:

  • Transportation:

  • Public transportation: Remember to be patient and respectful, as public transport on São Tomé can be unreliable.

Other considerations:

  • Respect the local culture:

  • Learn a few basic phrases in Portuguese:

  • Ask permission before taking photos of any historical sites or landmarks: Be aware that some places may have restrictions on photography.

Things to know:

  • Transportation:

    • Prices vary depending on the distance and destination:

  • Distance:

  • Respect the local “Casa de Chá” (traditional restaurant):

Remember:

  • Public transportation:

  • Currency:

  • Enjoy a “Moqueca” (fish stew) in season: This is a great way to experience the local cuisine and meet other people who enjoy it.