Sao Tome and Principe
Central Africa • STP
Last updated: May 26, 2026
Sao Tome and Principe is an idyllic island nation located in the Gulf of Guinea known for its lush tropical rainforests, pristine beaches, and rich volcanic landscapes. It offers a tranquil escape for travelers looking to experience authentic African culture, world-class birdwatching, and incredible cocoa plantations.
Visa Requirements
Citizens of the EU, US, and many other nations can travel visa-free for tourism stays of up to 15 days.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport valid for at least six months
- Return or onward flight ticket
- Proof of accommodation
- International Certificate of Vaccination for Yellow Fever if arriving from an endemic area
Popular Attractions
Pico Cao Grande: This iconic, needle-shaped volcanic plug towers dramatically over the rainforest landscape of Obo National Park.
Boca do Inferno: A spectacular blowhole where ocean waves crash against volcanic cliffs, creating an impressive and powerful display of nature.
Banana Beach: Located on Principe, this picture-perfect stretch of sand is surrounded by jungle and famous for its stunning turquoise waters.
Roça São João: A historic plantation house that has been converted into a cultural hub where visitors can enjoy traditional cuisine and local history.
Ilhéu das Rolas: A small, beautiful island sitting directly on the Equator, offering a unique opportunity to stand in both the northern and southern hemispheres.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Greetings are essential, so always offer a friendly 'bom dia' or 'boa tarde' when entering shops or speaking to locals.
Dress modestly when away from the beach, as locals appreciate respectful attire in villages and towns.
Ask for permission before taking photographs of locals, especially children or people working, as it is considered polite.
Patience is valued in the local culture, so expect a slower pace of life where things may not always run exactly on time.
Tipping is not strictly mandatory, but it is appreciated for good service in restaurants and for tour guides.
Support the local economy by purchasing handmade crafts or locally produced chocolate directly from community markets.
Safety Tips
Drink only bottled or treated water to avoid waterborne illnesses that can disrupt your travel plans.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites by using insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved clothing during dawn and dusk.
Consult a doctor about malaria prophylaxis, as Sao Tome is in a malaria-endemic region.
Avoid walking alone on isolated beaches after dark, as security is limited in remote coastal areas.
Keep your valuables, such as passports and large amounts of cash, locked in a hotel safe whenever possible.
Only use reputable tour operators and guides when hiking in Obo National Park to ensure you do not get lost.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Yellow Fever
Source: CDC
Not required when traveling directly from non-risk countries.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travelers over 9 months of age arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
View sourceMalaria Chemoprophylaxis
Source: CDC
CDC recommends that travelers going to São Tomé and Príncipe take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to São Tomé and Príncipe.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to São Tomé and Príncipe. Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.
View sourceCore Vaccines
Routine vaccinations (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
To prevent mosquito bites, use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants, especially during dusk and dawn.
View sourceMeningococcal vaccination
Source: CDC
Consider vaccination against meningococcal disease especially if visiting crowded places.
View sourceMeasles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) Vaccine
Source: CDC
All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the MMR vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel.
Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
To prevent diseases transmitted by insects, such as malaria and dengue fever.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Staying up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations helps reduce the risk of severe illness during travel.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
To reduce the risk of foodborne and waterborne illnesses.
View sourceMMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
Source: CDC
Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date before travel.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended due to potential exposure through contaminated food or water.
View sourceTdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis)
Source: CDC
Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date before travel.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Hepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers to protect against hepatitis A.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers with potential exposure to contaminated food or water.
View sourcePractice food and water safety
Source: CDC
To avoid gastrointestinal illnesses when consuming local foods and drinks.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
To prevent malaria and dengue fever, which are transmitted through insect bites.
View sourceDengue vaccine
Source: CDC
If you have had dengue in the past, vaccination can help prevent future infections, especially if traveling to areas with a high risk of dengue.
View sourceUpdate routine vaccines
Source: CDC
Ensure you are protected against diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, and diphtheria, especially in areas with outbreaks.
View sourceInsect bite prevention (DEET), including malaria prevention measures
Source: CDC
Recommended to reduce risk of insect-borne diseases.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Malaria prophylaxis (Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline or mefloquine)
Source: CDC
Malaria is a risk in certain areas, especially during the rainy season; prophylaxis is recommended for most travelers.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
Be cautious with food and water to reduce the risk of illness during travel.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Consider if you will be in contact with animals or in areas without quick access to medical care.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
To protect against COVID-19, which remains a health risk.
View sourceVaccines for other diseases as advised by health professionals
Source: CDC
Consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice depending on travel itineraries.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Consider vaccination for travelers who may have sexual contact, be exposed to blood, or need medical treatment.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccines
Source: CDC
Recommended for all eligible travelers to protect against COVID-19.
View sourceRisk Area: No malaria risk
View sourceRisk Area: Entire country
Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloquine
Seasonality: June to October
View sourceRisk Area: All areas of São Tomé and Príncipe
Chemoprophylaxis: Atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline, mefloquine, tafenoquine
Seasonality: Year-round
View source