Sao Tome City Guide

Must-try local dishes include 'calulu' (fish and vegetable stew), 'feijoada' (bean stew), and fresh seafood. Vegetarian-friendly options are limited but possible, especially with fresh produce from markets. Late-night food culture is not prominent.

Nightlife exists but is generally low-key, centered around a few bars, hotel lounges, and occasional live music events.

Sao Tome, a coffee-producing nation, offers fresh, local coffee. However, modern café culture is not developed.

Tipping is not deeply ingrained but appreciated for good service. Rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount is common in restaurants.

SIM cards can be purchased on arrival at the airport or from official stores of mobile providers in Sao Tome city. Best providers are Unitel STP and CST.

Street cleanliness varies; main areas are maintained but side streets can be less clean. Waste collection exists but recycling is limited.

24/7 services are limited. Late pharmacies, minimarts, and night clinics are generally unavailable. After-hours food is limited to hotels.

International product availability is limited but improving, with some imported goods found in larger supermarkets. Main supermarkets include Supermercado Nacional and Supermercado Padrão. Local fresh markets are abundant for produce, fish, and local goods.

Cash is predominantly used for most transactions, especially outside of major hotels and some larger businesses. Card acceptance is limited.

ATMs are available in Sao Tome city, primarily at banks like Banco Internacional de São Tomé e Príncipe (BISTP) and Caixa Económica de São Tomé e Príncipe (CESTP). Common fees for ATM withdrawals can be high, and it's advisable to withdraw larger amounts to minimize transaction costs.

Notable local schools include various public primary and secondary schools. International schools are very limited.

The digital nomad community is nascent with no established regular meetups or dedicated hubs. Some cafes might offer Wi-Fi, but not specifically catering to nomads.

Major parks include Jardim 5 de Julho. There are shaded walking areas in parks and along tree-lined streets.

Popular routes include the waterfront and quieter roads. Safety is generally good during daylight hours.

Gyms are available, though they might be basic compared to international standards. Some hotels may have fitness facilities.

Court availability is limited, some hotels or private clubs might have tennis courts. Equipment rental is unlikely to be widely available.

Padel courts are unlikely to be available.

Yoga studios and dedicated wellness facilities are very limited. Spa culture is available in some higher-end hotels.

Limited information on dojos, but local clubs for common martial arts might exist.

Not available. São Tomé and Príncipe is a tropical island nation.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing opportunities are available, often through hotels or tour operators. Equipment rental is typically linked to tour operators or resorts.

Surfing is limited but possible, especially on the southern coast. Most surf spots are suitable for experienced surfers due to reef breaks, with limited options for beginners.

Numerous dive sites around the island, known for volcanic formations and diverse marine life. Dive centers offer certifications and equipment rentals.

Public healthcare quality is basic; private clinics offer better, though limited, services. Hospitals like Hospital Dr. Ayres de Menezes are the primary facilities. English-speaking staff may be limited.

Tap water is generally not safe for drinking. It is recommended to drink bottled water.

Playgrounds are present in some public parks, though they may be basic. Kid-friendly cafés are not widely advertised, but local restaurants are generally welcoming to families.

It's a conservative society with no specific legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals. Public displays of affection by same-sex couples may not be widely accepted.

Pet accommodations vary; veterinary services are available but may be basic. It's best to confirm pet policies in advance.