Things To Do
in Santana
Santana is a small village located in Sao Tome and Principe, a small island nation off the coast of Central Africa. It is known for its lush greenery, pristine beaches, and welcoming locals. The village offers a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and connecting with nature.
Visitors to Santana can also enjoy hiking trails, birdwatching, and exploring the rich cultural heritage of the island.
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Desculpe" - Sorry
- "Como estás?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful beaches of Santana. Enjoy a serene morning walk by the shoreline, soaking in the fresh ocean breeze.
Head to the vibrant local market for lunch, sampling traditional dishes and fresh produce. Wander through the colorful stalls and experience the local culture.
End the day with a sunset view from the cliffs overlooking the ocean. Enjoy a peaceful dinner at a nearby restaurant with fresh seafood.
Set off early for a hike in the nearby mountains. Experience the lush landscapes and diverse wildlife as you trek along the scenic trails.
Visit a local waterfall for a refreshing swim and picnic lunch amidst nature. Take some time to relax and enjoy the sounds of the forest.
Return to Santana and unwind at your accommodation. Share stories of your day over a simple dinner under the stars.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural landscapes and biodiversity, including beaches and rainforests.
- Rich cultural heritage with a unique blend of African and Portuguese influences.
- Friendly and welcoming local population.
- Low levels of tourism compared to other destinations, allowing for a more authentic experience.
- Opportunities for ecotourism, including hiking, birdwatching, and marine activities.
- Limited infrastructure and services, which may pose challenges for travelers.
- Higher costs for imported goods and services due to remote location.
- Healthcare services may not be as advanced as in other countries.
- Transportation options can be limited and require careful planning.
- Seasonal rainfall can affect travel plans and outdoor activities.
Best Activities in Santana
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Challenge yourself with a hike to the highest peak in São Tomé, offering breathtaking views of the island and its lush landscape.
Explore the diverse flora and fauna of Obo National Park, ideal for trekking and experiencing the local wildlife.
Engage in birdwatching in the forests and coastline of Santana, where you can see various endemic bird species.
Relax and unwind at Praia Piscina, known for its clear waters and natural swimming pools, perfect for a day of sunbathing.
Rent a kayak and navigate the serene waters along the coast, enjoying the stunning coastal scenery and marine life.
Take part in cultural tours to learn about the local way of life, including visiting traditional markets and local farms.
Tours
Uncover the best of Santana with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Santana
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning volcanic plug standing 663 meters high, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and ocean.
A beautiful beach known for its golden sands and clear waters, perfect for sunset photography.
A national park with lush rainforests, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, ideal for nature photography.
An immersive experience in a working cocoa plantation, offering unique photographic opportunities among the lush cocoa trees.
A picturesque river valley offering stunning views and vibrant greenery, perfect for capturing the essence of São Tomé.
A enchanting waterfall surrounded by rich foliage, providing a perfect backdrop for stunning nature shots.
A historic fort with panoramic views of the coastline and the town, great for both history and photography enthusiasts.
A serene blue lagoon ideal for capturing striking ocean views, particularly at sunrise and sunset.
A scenic viewpoint offering sweeping vistas of the coastline, city and beyond, perfect for landscape photography.
Known for its stunning bay views and tranquil atmosphere, ideal for peaceful beach photography.
Food in Santana
Santana Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional dish featuring fish or chicken, cooked with palm oil, vegetables, and okra. Best experienced at local home-style restaurants.
Must-Try!
A delectable shrimp dish cooked in coconut milk, garlic, and palm oil. Found in various seaside eateries and restaurants.
A spicy fish stew flavored with local herbs and served with funje, a maize-based porridge. Available at traditional eateries across Santana.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Santana better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market offers a wide array of fresh produce, seafood, and local snacks like pastéis de banana (banana fritters) and pão de queijo (cheese bread).
Explore the bustling street food scene offering grilled fish, prawns, and tropical fruit salads. Don't miss the renowned cachupa, a hearty stew with beans, corn, and fish.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone in Santana, it is customary to greet with a handshake, and it's polite to inquire about the person's health and family. Using local greetings can further show respect and appreciation for the culture.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Wearing conservative clothing demonstrates respect for local customs and traditions.
Participating in community activities and showing interest in local traditions, such as music and food, fosters goodwill. Being open to learning about and respecting local customs indicates a genuine appreciation for the culture.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Santana with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Santana
Ensure a smooth experience
In São Tomé and Príncipe, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory, especially in the hospitality industry. A tip of around 10% is customary for good service in restaurants, although many establishments may include a service charge in the bill. It is also common to round up the fare for taxi drivers or to leave small change as a token of appreciation.
Payment methods in São Tomé and Príncipe predominantly involve cash transactions, with the local currency being the São Tomé and Príncipe dobra (STN). While credit and debit cards are accepted in major hotels and restaurants, they are not widely used elsewhere. Travelers are advised to carry sufficient cash, particularly when visiting rural areas where electronic payment options may be limited.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Santana.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is considered the best time to visit Santana, as you can expect sunny days, lower humidity, and minimal rainfall. Ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, exploring the beaches, and enjoying local festivals.
During this season, expect higher humidity and frequent rain showers, particularly from October to December. This is the time when the rainforest is lush and vibrant. It's perfect for those interested in eco-tourism, but travelers should be prepared for mud and occasional changes in plans due to weather.
This is the peak tourist season due to favorable weather conditions with less rain. Visitors can enjoy various cultural events and vibrant local life, but accommodations may be more crowded and expensive.
This period sees fewer tourists, leading to lower prices and more availability. However, rain can be more frequent, especially in April and May. It's a good time for those seeking solitude and who don’t mind the occasional downpour.
Santana at Night
Hiking in Santana
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking trail with stunning views of the coastline and lush greenery, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
A vast protected area offering various hiking routes through rich biodiversity, including unique flora and fauna.
The highest peak in São Tomé, providing challenging hikes with breathtaking panoramic views from the summit.
A beautiful park featuring waterfalls, lush trails, and opportunities to explore the diverse ecosystem of the region.
An old plantation site with trails that lead through historical sites and vibrant natural surroundings.
Aiports
How to reach Santana by plane.
The main international airport serving São Tomé and Príncipe, located on the island of São Tomé, approximately 4 km from the capital city, São Tomé.
An airport located on the island of Príncipe, serving the island with domestic and limited international flights.
Several nearby international airports are located in neighboring countries such as Angola and Gabon, which provide connections to São Tomé and Príncipe.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous people of Sao Tome and Principe, comprising the majority of the population and primarily speaking Portuguese and Forro.
This group includes individuals of mixed African and European descent, often with Portuguese ancestry due to historical colonization.
Includes expatriates and migrants from various countries, primarily involved in business and development sectors.
A significant portion of the population, focusing on individuals under the age of 18, who are critical for the country's future development.
This group refers to older adults, which represents a smaller percentage but is important for understanding social dynamics.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Santana and throughout São Tomé and Príncipe. It is played at both local and national levels, with passionate support from fans.
Basketball is gaining popularity in Santana, especially among the youth, with various local teams and tournaments being organized.
Volleyball is another sport that is enjoyed in Santana, with local teams competing in regional matches.
Athletics, including running and track events, is practiced in Santana, with local competitions and participation in national events.
Martial arts such as judo and karate are practiced and taught in Santana, attracting individuals interested in self-defense and discipline.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santana.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat and fish are prevalent, many eateries in Santana offer vegetarian options like legume-based stews, fried plantains, and cassava dishes. Some places are also accommodating to vegan requests.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy naturally gluten-free staples such as fresh seafood, tropical fruits, yams, and rice-based dishes. Several establishments also offer gluten-free variations of traditional treats.