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, renowned for its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and rich volcanic landscapes. It offers a tranquil escape for nature lovers and adventurers seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination with vibrant Creole culture.
Visa Requirements
Citizens of the EU, USA, Canada, and several other countries are exempt from visa requirements for stays of up to 15 days.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport valid for at least six months
- Return or onward flight ticket
- Proof of accommodation
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate if arriving from an endemic area
Popular Attractions
Obo National Park offers incredible biodiversity, trekking trails, and the iconic Pico Cao Grande, a massive volcanic spire rising from the jungle.
Ilheu das Rolas is a tiny equatorial island that features a monument marking the equator and offers stunning snorkeling in crystal-clear waters.
Boca do Inferno is a dramatic coastal site where waves surge through a blowhole, creating a spectacular display of the power of the Atlantic Ocean.
The historical Roça Sundy is a former cocoa plantation that provides a glimpse into the colonial history and agricultural roots of the country.
Praia Banana is frequently cited as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, known for its golden sand and dense, lush vegetation.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Greetings are important, so a polite 'Bom dia' (good morning) or 'Boa tarde' (good afternoon) is expected when entering shops or interacting with locals.
Dress modestly in villages and towns, keeping beachwear strictly to the coastline rather than in urban or religious settings.
Ask for permission before taking photographs of people or local homes, as it is considered respectful and polite.
The pace of life is relaxed, so expect a 'mora' (slow) approach to service in restaurants and shops, requiring patience.
Tipping is not mandatory but is highly appreciated in restaurants and for tour guides as a gesture of gratitude for good service.
Safety Tips
Sao Tome and Principe is generally considered very safe, but it is wise to avoid walking alone on isolated beaches after dark.
Keep your valuables and passport in a hotel safe and carry only small amounts of cash while exploring.
Ensure you have adequate travel insurance that covers emergency medical evacuation, as local healthcare facilities are limited.
Drink only bottled or treated water to avoid waterborne illnesses common in tropical regions.
Take precautions against mosquito bites by wearing long-sleeved clothing and using reliable insect repellent to prevent malaria.
Always use reputable guides when hiking in the rainforest to avoid getting lost in dense, unmarked terrain.
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 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 sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to São Tomé and Príncipe.
View sourceCore Vaccines
Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis)
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 sourceMMR (measles, mumps, rubella)
Source: CDC
Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date before travel.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
To reduce the risk of foodborne and waterborne illnesses.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Staying up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations helps reduce the risk of severe illness during travel.
View sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
To prevent diseases transmitted by insects, such as malaria and dengue fever.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
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 sourceMeningococcal vaccination
Source: CDC
Consider vaccination against meningococcal disease especially if visiting crowded places.
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 sourceRoutine vaccinations (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Insect bite prevention (DEET), including malaria prevention measures
Source: CDC
Recommended to reduce risk of insect-borne diseases.
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 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 sourceInsect bite prevention
Source: CDC
To prevent malaria and dengue fever, which are transmitted through insect bites.
View sourcePractice food and water safety
Source: CDC
To avoid gastrointestinal illnesses when consuming local foods and drinks.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers with potential exposure to contaminated food or water.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers to protect against hepatitis A.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
COVID-19 vaccines
Source: CDC
Recommended for all eligible travelers to protect against COVID-19.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Consider vaccination for travelers who may have sexual contact, be exposed to blood, or need medical treatment.
View sourceVaccines for other diseases as advised by health professionals
Source: CDC
Consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice depending on travel itineraries.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
To protect against COVID-19, which remains a health risk.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Consider if you will be in contact with animals or in areas without quick access to medical care.
View sourceFood and water safety precautions
Source: CDC
Be cautious with food and water to reduce the risk of illness during travel.
View sourceMalaria 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 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