Sao Tome And Principe🇸🇹
Located just north of the equator, off the western coast of Central Africa, Sao Tome and Principe is a breathtaking archipelago known for its lush landscapes and vibrant biodiversity. It is an island nation with no neighboring countries but shares maritime borders with Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, and Nigeria. This small country shines with its immense natural features, boasting lush rainforests, charming colonial towns, and stunning beaches - pristine and untouched by mass tourism. Known for its cocoa production, it is rich in cultural traditions with influences from Portuguese settlers, African slaves, and other groups. The country's uniqueness also lies in its Pico Cão Grande, a stunning needle-shaped volcanic plug peak that attracts climbers around the world. The Obo National Park, encompassing various ecosystems and hosting unique wildlife species, is a must-visit when you find yourself in Sao Tome and Principe.
⚠️Things you should avoid⚠️
- Avoid drinking tap water as it is not safe to consume. Opt for bottled water instead.
- Avoid unprotected sex. The country has a high rate of HIV/AIDS infection.
- Avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach. Hygiene standards can vary.
- Do not ignore the risk of malaria and other diseases. Use appropriate preventative measures.
- Avoid showing ostentatious signs of wealth that might attract the attention of thieves.
- Avoid travelling alone at night and in isolated areas, due to risks of crime.
- Never stray off marked paths or travel independently in Obo National Park due to its dense forest.
- Avoid taking photographs of government buildings without permission.
- Avoid handling animals, whether wild or domestic, to minimize the risk of diseases like rabies.
- Avoid disrespecting local customs. Dress modestly and respect religious and cultural traditions.
Overall
7
Crime 🔫
7
Sao Tome and Principe generally have a low crime rate. However, petty crimes, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, do occur, mainly in urban areas and around popular tourist sites. Occasional incidents of burglary and theft from cars have been reported. The capital city of Sao Tome is relatively safe, but it's always better to stay aware of your surroundings and keep valuable items secure.
Terrorism 💣
10
Sao Tome and Principe have had no recorded incidents of terrorism. The country maintains a peaceful atmosphere despite its geographical proximity to regions with historical issues of terrorism. It's a country generally considered free from any terrorist activity.
War ⚔️
10
Sao Tome and Principe have a history free of war conflicts. The peaceful transition of power has occurred since its independence, maintaining political stability. The nation fosters friendly relations with neighbors contributing to its peaceful environment.
Natural Disasters 🌊
6
The archipelago is vulnerable to natural disasters like floods and landslides due to heavy rains, especially during the rainy season from October to May. Tropical storms may also occur, although these are infrequent. Although earthquakes occasionally occur, they are generally of low to moderate magnitude.
Medical Care 🏥
6
Sao Tome and Principe have basic healthcare facilities but lack specialized and advanced medical care. Emergency services and medical supplies are severely limited. For serious medical conditions, evacuation to a country with better facilities is often required.
Tap Water Quality 💧
5
Tap water in Sao Tome and Principe is not safe to drink due to lack of proper sanitation facilities. Bottled water is widely available and is the safer option for drinking and brushing teeth.
Disease Burden 🤒
5
Malaria, dengue fever, and other vector-borne diseases are common in Sao Tome and Principe. Travellers are advised to take necessary precautions to prevent mosquito bites. Water-borne, food-borne, parasitic and other infectious diseases, including cholera, hepatitis, and rabies, also pose risks.
Corruption 💸
5
Whilst Sao Tome and Principe is taking strides to improve transparency, corruption is still present, particularly within local government, affecting the business and investment climate of the country.
Safety for Women ♀️
7
Although Sao Tome and Principe is known for being quite safe for tourists, including solo female travellers, incidents of harassment can occur. Women should be cautious especially while travelling alone at night and in secluded areas.
Safety for Queer People 👬
7
While homosexuality is legal in Sao Tome and Principe, the country doesn't have a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene and societal attitudes towards homosexuality are often conservative. However, there have been no major incidents of homophobic violence.
Censorship 📺
8
Media in Sao Tome and Principe are free and independent. There are no significant reports of government censorship or restriction on freedom of speech. However, some journalists practice self-censorship, particularly on issues regarding corruption.
Public Transportation 🚌
6
Public transportation in Sao Tome and Principe consists primarily of minibusses. While they are widely used by locals, they are often in poor condition and not always reliable. Road conditions are variable, and during the rainy season, some rural roads may be impassable. No specific incidents or accidents noted in recent history.
Other useful information
🔒 How safe is it?
Sao Tome and Principe is generally safe with a low crime rate, warfare, and terrorism-free. However, minor concerns include potential diseases and healthcare availability. Use necessary precautions against diseases and have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation. Always respect local customs and be aware of your surroundings.
🏰 Embassies in this Country
Sao Tome and Principe have few foreign embassies. However, several countries have honorary consulates, while others handle consular services from embassies in neighboring countries.
💉 Recommended Vaccinations
For travel to Sao Tome and Principe, the CDC recommends vaccinations against Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Yellow Fever, Rabies, Meningitis, and routine vaccines. Malaria prophylaxis is also advised.
🐍 Dangerous Animals
The country has a rich biodiversity, but some animals can pose risks. For example, in the rainforests and national parks, there might be snakes. Mosquitoes can transmit diseases like malaria and dengue fever.
🛂 Visa Requirements
Visitors to Sao Tome and Principe need a visa unless they come from one of the visa-exempt countries. Some nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival.
💲 Currency
The official currency is the Dobra (STD). Foreign currencies can be exchanged in banks and some hotels.
💳 Credit Card Acceptance
Credit card acceptance is low in Sao Tome and Principe. Cash is often preferred, especially outside of hotels and upscale restaurants.
🧑🏭 Is it possible to work and travel in this country?
Options for work and travel are quite limited due to the small size and developing status of the country. However, there are opportunities in fields such as eco-tourism, volunteering, and teaching English.
💵 Cost of Travel and Living
The cost of travel and living in Sao Tome and Principe is moderate compared to other African countries. Accommodation, eating out, and activities can be quite affordable.