What you will see
Much of the main island is made up of steamy jungle with areas of original rainforest particularly in the south of the island. Although showers can be common, they tend be very localised and for short periods of the day. The north side of the island is effectively savannah with a drier climate. The influence of the Portuguese is clear to see, with many former coffee and cocoa plantations. Visitors now have the opportunity to stay on the plantations, or
‘Roças’ as some have started to work with rural tourism. Some Rocas are located near beaches, offering wonderful sea views, in a perfect tranquil setting. All offer excellent trekking opportunities in the surrounding areas, or why not consider trekking between two plantations.
Throughout the country visitors will see many fine examples of colonial architecture, although often in a crumbling state, only adding to the laid back feel of São Tomé and Príncipe. Many travellers simply enjoy a stroll through the towns in search of the colourful markets Others will want to visit . Others will want to visit during August to October, when whales and dolphins can be spotted off the northeast coast. Then each year between November and early February turtles, who come to lay their eggs, visit the country’s beaches.
Practical Information
Visas - < Back to top
At the time of writing of writing a visa is required by most nationals, including British and other European citizens. These can be obtained through a Sãotoméan embassy (few and far between) or in certain cases on arrival. Cost is usually in region of Euro 50. Contact us for further information.
Getting to São Tomé - < Back to top
The only link from Europe is unsurprisingly from Lisbon, Portugal. At the time of writing two airlines serve the route, TAP Air Portugal and Air Luxor, both with a weekly service.
An alternative option is to travel via Gabon, from where there are up to four flights a week between Libreville and São Tomé and v.v. The final option is TAAG Angolan Airlines weekly flight from Luanda, which continues, to Accra, Ghana and Cape Verde.
As we are a small, specialist agency, we are unable to secure the best airfares available. Increasingly the airlines are seeking the majority of their bookings, direct through their own websites, or only offer the best deals to a handful of selected, large agencies such as Trailfinders. We can highly recommend Trailfinders, as they are generally very competitive in price and consistently offer the highest levels of choice and expertise. See our Frequently Asked Questions section for more information.
Immunisations - < Back to top
As with travel to most parts of West Africa, we strongly recommend that you contact your Doctor’s surgery or a specialist travel clinic for up-to-date information, advice and the necessary vaccinations. We can recommend the Trailfinders Travel Clinic.
For a visit of less than one month, almost certainly you will be advised to have immunisations against the following: Diphtheria and Tetanus, Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Meningitis and Yellow Fever. Anti-malaria medication will also be required and the use of a DEET-containing insect repellent is highly recommended.
Travel Insurance - < Back to top
We have a legal obligation to stress the absolute need to have adequate travel insurance, which should be taken at the time your trip is confirmed. These days there’s a huge range of options available and premiums have never been more competitive. Increasingly annual multi-trip policies offer good value for money, but you should compare the level of cover and the activities included with each policy. Please contact us for further details.
Foreign Office Advice - < Back to top
We constantly monitor the advice posted by the British Foreign Office. Currently the Foreign Office has no warnings in respect of travel to São Tomé and Príncipe. Should this position ever change we would of course advise all effected clients. Furthermore, we will always be as flexible as possible and do our best to waive normal cancellation fees (subject to the agreement of local suppliers), should we need to cancel a trip due to the advice issued by the Foreign Office.
Nonetheless, we strongly recommend that insurance be taken out at the time of booking, which may offer some protection should your plans later change as a result of such advice.
