Things To Do
in São Tomé
São Tomé is a small coastal town located in the state of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil. It is known for its beautiful beaches with clear blue waters and golden sand. The town has a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, making it a popular destination for tourists looking to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.
São Tomé also offers a variety of water sports and activities for visitors to enjoy, such as surfing, snorkeling, and beach volleyball.
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Desculpe" - Sorry
- "Tudo bem?" - Are you okay?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Praia dos Tamancos, enjoying the soft sand and clear waters. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach to soak in the breathtaking scenery.
Grab lunch at a beachside restaurant, savoring local seafood dishes. Spend the afternoon lounging under the sun or swimming in the ocean.
As the sun sets, head to a nearby bar for some refreshing drinks. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and listen to live music as you unwind.
Begin with a guided hike in Obo National Park to explore its lush flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for exotic birds and unique plant species along the way.
After the hike, enjoy a picnic lunch in a designated area within the park. Spend the afternoon observing nature and taking photos of the stunning landscape.
Return to your accommodation and freshen up. Enjoy a traditional dinner in the main town, experiencing local cuisine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with lush rainforests and beautiful beaches.
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant local traditions.
- Low levels of tourism compared to other destinations, providing a more authentic experience.
- Biodiversity hotspot with unique wildlife and endemic species.
- Limited infrastructure and services, which may not meet the expectations of all travelers.
- Isolated location can make reaching the islands more challenging and time-consuming.
- Economic challenges and lower standards of living can impact availability of modern amenities.
- Healthcare facilities may be limited, especially in remote areas.
Best Activities in São Tomé
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes of Obo National Park. Trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes will immerse you in the island's natural beauty.
Discover the vibrant marine life around the island through snorkeling and diving excursions. Sites like Praia das Conchas and the nearby reefs offer stunning underwater views.
Visit the historic cocoa plantations, known as Roças, to learn about Sao Tome's agricultural heritage and enjoy the beautiful scenery while hiking through the plantations.
São Tomé is home to many endemic bird species. Join a birdwatching tour to spot the unique avifauna while enjoying the lush surroundings.
Relax at one of the beautiful beaches like Praia José Gomes, where you can sunbathe, swim, and enjoy the scenic coastline.
Engage in kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding in the calm waters around the island, offering a unique perspective of the coastline and the opportunity to explore hidden coves.
Participate in cultural tours to experience local traditions, cuisine, and music, providing an enriching outdoor experience with the local community.
Tours
Uncover the best of São Tomé with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in São Tomé
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning volcanic plug that rises dramatically from the landscape, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding rainforest and coastline.
A beautiful beach known for its vibrant sunsets and pristine waters, perfect for stunning seaside photos.
An observation point that provides sweeping views of the island, ideal for capturing the lush greenery and diverse terrain.
A small island located south of São Tomé, famous for its beautiful beaches and scenic viewpoints, perfect for photography.
A serene garden with a variety of plants and trees, offering a tranquil setting for nature photography and close-ups of exotic flora.
An old coffee plantation with stunning architecture and lush surroundings, providing a glimpse into the island's history alongside great photo opportunities.
This charming village features colorful houses and a picturesque beach, perfect for capturing the essence of local life and beauty.
A stunning waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation, ideal for dynamic nature photography.
The highest point on the island providing incredible views of the entire region, perfect for landscape photography.
A viewpoint that offers a unique perspective of the coastline and surrounding landscapes, great for capturing sunset or sunrise moments.
Food in São Tomé
São Tomé Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Brazilian fish stew made with coconut milk, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and coriander, served with rice. It can be found at many beachside restaurants and local eateries.
Must-Try!
A hearty stew of black beans, pork, and smoked meats, often served with rice, collard greens, and farofa (toasted cassava flour). Try this dish at traditional Brazilian restaurants like Casa da Feijoada.
Deep-fried balls of crushed black-eyed peas filled with vatapá (spicy paste made from shrimp, coconut milk, and ground peanuts), caruru (okra stew), and dried shrimp. Look for street vendors in the Mercado Modelo area for an authentic taste.
Unique Experiences
Get to know São Tomé better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market in São Tomé offers an array of local street food including acarajé, tapioca crepes, grilled meats, and fresh tropical juices. It's a great place to sample traditional snacks and experience the local food scene.
One of the largest open-air markets in Brazil, Ver-o-Peso is a food lover's paradise with vendors selling exotic fruits, Amazonian fish, spices, and traditional street food. Don't miss the tacacá, a spicy soup made with jambu leaves.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone, a friendly handshake is common. Close friends may greet each other with a hug or kiss on the cheek. Always make eye contact and smile to show respect and warmth.
Dress modestly, especially in more rural areas and when visiting religious sites. Casual attire is suitable for most situations, but be mindful of your appearance as locals appreciate well-dressed individuals.
When invited to a meal, it's polite to bring a small gift, such as dessert or drinks. Wait for the host to start the meal before eating, and compliment the food as a sign of appreciation.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of São Tomé with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in São Tomé
Ensure a smooth experience
In São Tomé, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, it's common to round up the bill or leave a small percentage, typically around 10%. For services such as taxis or hotels, rounding up or leaving extra for exceptional service is also customary.
Payments in São Tomé can be made in cash, predominantly the São Tomé and Príncipe Dobra. Credit and debit cards are accepted in larger establishments, but cash is preferred in smaller shops and markets. It's advisable to carry cash for convenience, especially in rural areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into São Tomé.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time to visit São Tomé, as the weather is cooler and less humid with minimal rainfall. Expect sunny days, making it perfect for exploring beaches and nature trails.
This period experiences higher humidity and frequent rainfall. While you can still enjoy your visit, expect short, heavy downpours, particularly from October to January. It’s a quieter time with fewer tourists.
Throughout the year, temperatures remain fairly consistent, averaging between 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F). However, visiting during the wet season may result in slightly cooler evenings.
Visiting in December offers a chance to experience local cultural festivals, especially around Christmas, where traditional music and dance bring the island’s vibrant culture to life.
São Tomé at Night
Hiking in São Tomé
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A picturesque trail that offers stunning views of the ocean and lush greenery, perfect for both beginners and experienced hikers.
The highest point on the island, the hike to Pico de São Tomé provides breathtaking panoramic views and a chance to see unique flora and fauna.
This trail features a beautiful crater lake surrounded by rich vegetation, providing a serene hiking experience.
A challenging hike through a scenic river valley, known for its waterfalls and diverse wildlife.
This trail takes you through an old plantation area, showcasing the island's agricultural history and scenic landscapes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into São Tomé through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach São Tomé by plane.
The main international airport serving São Tomé and Príncipe, located on the island of São Tomé.
An international airport located in Catamarca, Argentina, which serves as a major hub for flights in the southern regions of South America.
An airport located in Cabo Frio, Brazil, serving the southern regions of the state of Rio de Janeiro.
The main international airport in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, facilitating connections to various international destinations.
The largest international airport in Brazil, located in São Paulo, serves numerous international flights.
An international airport located in Brasília, Brazil, serving as a major air travel hub in the country.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population, consisting of individuals of mixed European, African, and Indigenous ancestry.
A large demographic group, primarily descendants of enslaved Africans brought to work on plantations.
Individuals of European descent, including Portuguese and other European immigrants.
A small population of Indigenous groups, though largely assimilated into other demographics.
The Soul of São Tomé
Discover the essence of São Tomé through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in São Tomé, with a passionate following and numerous local clubs and competitions.
Volleyball enjoys great popularity in São Tomé, both in schools and communities, with many players participating in local leagues.
Basketball is growing in popularity in São Tomé, with various teams and outdoor courts available for enthusiasts.
Athletics, including running and jumping events, has a presence in São Tomé, with local competitions promoting fitness and sportsmanship.
Handball is also played in São Tomé, with a moderate following and participation in school sports programs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting São Tomé.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Brazilian cuisine often features meat and seafood, many restaurants in São Tomé offer vegetarian and vegan options such as heart of palm stroganoff, grilled vegetable skewers, and tropical fruit salads.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy tapioca crepes, fresh seafood, and tropical fruits, as well as gluten-free menus at some restaurants that cater to dietary restrictions.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of São Tomé with these cultural adventures.
