Attraction in Sao Tome and Principe
Fort Sao Sebastiao and National Museum
Built by the Portuguese in 1566 to protect the port from pirate raids, Fort Sao Sebastiao is one of the oldest European fortifications in sub-Saharan Africa. Since 1976 it has housed the National Museum, whose collections span religious art, colonial-era artefacts, traditional tools, and historical photographs that trace the archipelago from plantation era to independence. The fort occupies a promontory at the southeastern end of Ana Chaves Bay, with views across the water.
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Travel Guide
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Sao Tome and Principe
Entry requirements vary by passport. Check the requirements for your specific passport on the Sao Tome and Principe page at Yoogo.
The official currency is the Dobra (STN), introduced in 2018 to replace the old Dobra at a rate of 1,000:1. Cash is the primary means of payment across the islands, and ATMs in Sao Tome City are the most reliable way to access local currency, as card acceptance outside the capital and larger hotels is limited.
Sao Tome and Principe consistently ranks among the lowest-crime countries in Africa, and violent crime against tourists is rare. Petty theft such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas such as the Mercado Central in the capital, so standard precautions with valuables are advisable.
The main form of local transport on Sao Tome Island is the aluguer, a shared taxi or minibus that follows common routes and picks up passengers along the way. Motorcycle taxis are widely used for shorter distances, and car hire is available in the capital for independent exploration. Principe Island has limited minibus services, and the two islands are connected by domestic flights and an occasional ferry.
The islands have two dry seasons: a shorter one from December to February and a longer one known as the gravana, which runs from June to September. These periods offer lower humidity, more sunshine, and better conditions for hiking, birdwatching, and beach activities. The wetter months between October and May bring heavier rainfall and higher mosquito activity.
Portuguese is the official language and is spoken by virtually the entire population. Forro, Angolar, and Principense Creoles are also spoken as regional languages, reflecting the islands' African heritage. English is not widely spoken outside some tourist-facing businesses and larger hotels, so a basic knowledge of Portuguese is helpful.
Malaria is a high risk throughout Sao Tome and Principe and is chloroquine-resistant, so antimalarial medication (such as atovaquone/proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine) is strongly recommended. Hepatitis A and typhoid vaccinations are advised for all travellers, and it is worth consulting a travel health clinic at least four to six weeks before departure to review your full vaccination needs.
Tipping is not obligatory but is appreciated, particularly in restaurants where a service charge is not included. Leaving around 5 to 10 per cent of a restaurant bill is customary if you are satisfied with the service. Small tips are also welcomed by hotel staff, tour guides, and drivers.