Why visit
São Tomé and Príncipe, Africa's second-smallest country, is two volcanic islands of cocoa plantations, empty beaches, and rainforest peaks. Príncipe is a UNESCO biosphere with a single small town.
Country - Africa
São Tomé & Príncipe
culturenatureadventure
How to use this result
Use it as a country shortlist
São Tomé & Príncipe works best as a first-pass travel idea. Start with the region, season, and themes on this page, then compare flights, entry rules, safety guidance, and local transport before treating it as a real option.
Compare the capital and side trips
Use São Tomé as the administrative starting point, then check whether the strongest trip idea is actually the capital, a coastal area, a nature route, or another city in São Tomé & Príncipe.
At a glance
Location
1.0°, 7.0°
Coast
Has coastline
Country area
964 km²
372 mi²
Subregion
Middle Africa
Currency
São Tomé and Príncipe dobra (Db)
STN
Dial
+239
Language
Portuguese
Demonym
Sao Tomean
Internet
.st
UN
Member state
ISO code
ST / STP
Where in the world
1.0° - 7.0°
São Tomé & Príncipe
Open in Google Maps
Click the map to open in Google Maps. Outline via svg-maps/world - CC BY 4.0
Did you know
- São Tomé and Príncipe is Africa's second-smallest country after Seychelles.
- The islands lie almost exactly on the equator and were uninhabited until the Portuguese arrived in the 1470s.
- The country is one of the world's biggest cocoa producers per capita, with some of the finest single-origin cacao.
Traveler notes
- Pico Cão Grande is a 370 m volcanic spire rising from jungle
- Old cocoa roças now host atmospheric guesthouses
- Equatorial position means warm sea and green landscapes year-round
Plan checks
- Start research with the capital São Tomé, then compare two or three other regions.
- Check passport validity, visa rules, health requirements, and travel insurance for current conditions.
- Bring layered clothing and verify trail/park access before arrival.
Explore more
Facts last reviewed June 2026 against GeoNames and national statistics sources. See the editorial policy for how destination data is maintained.
Frequently asked about São Tomé & Príncipe
What is the capital of São Tomé & Príncipe?
São Tomé is the capital of São Tomé & Príncipe.
What currency does São Tomé & Príncipe use?
São Tomé & Príncipe uses the São Tomé and Príncipe dobra (Db), ISO code STN.
What languages are spoken in São Tomé & Príncipe?
The primary language is Portuguese.
Is São Tomé & Príncipe landlocked?
No, São Tomé & Príncipe has a coastline.
What is the international calling code for São Tomé & Príncipe?
The calling code is +239.
When is the best time to visit São Tomé & Príncipe?
Jun–Sep, Dec–Feb. Check current weather and local events before booking.
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