Welcome to Sao Tome and Principe 😊

Quick Facts About Sao Tome and Principe

Money and Finances

The official currency of Sao Tome and Principe is the Dobra (STD) which is divided into 100 Cêntimos. Coins come in denominations of 10, 20, 50 Cêntimos and 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 Dobras. Banknotes come in denominations of 100, 200, 500, 1000, 2000, and 5000 Dobras.

ATM Network

ATMs are available in the bigger cities of Sao Tome and Principe, but travelers should not rely on ATMs being widely available in the country. It is recommended to carry enough cash with you before visiting Sao Tome and Principe.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are not widely accepted in Sao Tome and Principe, and it is recommended to carry enough cash with you before visiting. Some hotels may accept Visa and Mastercard, but it is still recommended to confirm with the hotel before arrival. While AMEX is not widely accepted, some larger hotels or restaurants may accept it.

Internet and Phones

Sao Tome and Principe has limited internet infrastructure, with an average download speed of 2.1 Mbps and an upload speed of 1.7 Mbps. There is no government interference in internet use.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

The main telco companies in Sao Tome and Principe are CST and Unitel T+, offering mobile phone plans with average costs of around 50,000 STD (2 USD) per month. There may be sim compatibility issues with some older phones.

Dialling to Sao Tome and Principe

To call Sao Tome and Principe from another country, dial +239 followed by the desired number. Domestic calls within the country should include the two-digit area code.

Transport Around Sao Tome and Principe

Air Travel

São Tomé International Airport is the main airport in São Tomé and Príncipe, located on the island of São Tomé. The airport serves several international destinations, including Lisbon and Luanda.

Train Travel

There is no inter-city train network in São Tomé and Príncipe.

Metro / Local Trains

There is no metro system in São Tomé and Príncipe.

Buses

There are local buses that operate within São Tomé and Príncipe, but there are no long-distance bus services.

Rideshare

There are no rideshare companies operating in São Tomé and Príncipe.

Driving by Car

Driving in São Tomé and Príncipe can be challenging due to poorly maintained roads. The speed limit is generally 40 km/h in urban areas and 80 km/h on highways. The country uses right-hand drive.

Local Customs

In Sao Tome and Principe, tipping is not very common. Locals usually greet each other with a handshake and some may also hug or kiss on the cheek. When speaking with strangers, it is common to use formal titles such as 'Senhor' for men and 'Senhora' for women. Men and women typically address each other by their first name. It's important to be respectful of local customs and traditions while visiting this beautiful country.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

The healthcare system in Sao Tome and Principe is generally underdeveloped, with limited resources and access to medical supplies. Public hospitals and clinics provide basic care, but many locals opt for private medical facilities. It is highly recommended to have travel health insurance before visiting this country. A visit to the doctor can cost approximately $30-50 USD.

COVID Situation

Sao Tome and Principe has had a relatively low number of COVID-19 cases and deaths, with a total of 2,425 cases and 37 deaths as of August 2021. The government has implemented measures such as mandatory mask-wearing in public spaces, restricted international travel, and limited indoor gatherings to control the spread of the virus.

Common Health Risks

Malaria is a common health risk in Sao Tome and Principe, so it is recommended to take antimalarial medication and use mosquito nets. Travelers should also be cautious of food-borne illnesses, such as typhoid and diarrhea, and take precautions such as drinking bottled or boiled water and avoiding street food.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

In Sao Tome and Principe, the legal drinking age is 18 years old. Alcohol consumption is legal and there are no restrictions on the sale or distribution of alcohol. However, public drunkenness is considered a crime and may result in fines or imprisonment.

Recreational Drugs

The use, possession, and sale of recreational drugs in Sao Tome and Principe are illegal and may result in severe penalties, including imprisonment.

Pre-Marital Relationships

There are no laws prohibiting pre-marital relationships in Sao Tome and Principe. However, cohabitation outside of marriage is not widely accepted in the country's predominantly Catholic society.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

Same-sex sexual activity is legal in Sao Tome and Principe, and discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation is prohibited by law. However, LGBTQ rights are not widely recognized or protected in the country, and societal attitudes towards homosexuality remain largely negative.

Firearms / Guns

Sao Tome and Principe has strict gun control laws, and private possession of firearms is generally prohibited. Only authorized individuals, such as police officers and security personnel, are allowed to carry firearms.