Things To Do
in Santo António
Santo António is the capital of Principe, a tiny, emerald-green island that feels worlds away from the mainland. Its coastal charm, cocoa-fueled history, and laid-back rhythm create a welcoming, intimate atmosphere for travelers. Colorful streets, friendly locals, and pristine beaches sit just a short walk from the town center.
The surrounding Atlantic waters offer reliable opportunities for snorkeling, light hiking, and sunset moments with a tropical backdrop.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at São Tomé International Airport and take a picturesque drive to your accommodation in Santo António, where you'll be greeted with the warm hospitality of the locals. After settling in, enjoy a refreshing breakfast that features traditional São Toméan fare at a nearby café. Spend the morning exploring your surroundings and getting acquainted with the vibrant culture of this charming town.
In the afternoon, embark on a guided walking tour to discover Santo António's landmarks, such as the stunning Church of Nossa Senhora da Graça and local artisan shops. Stop for lunch at a local eatery, where you can savor local dishes made from fresh ingredients sourced from the island's lush surroundings. Continue your explorations at the beach, soaking in the sun and enjoying the pristine coastline.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a beachside restaurant, savoring freshly caught seafood while listening to the gentle waves lapping the shore. After dinner, consider joining a local dance event to immerse yourself in the vibrant music and lively rhythms that São Tomé is known for. Wind down your day with a stroll along the waterfront, soaking in the beautiful tropical night.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on an exciting trip to the Obo National Park, where you can delve into the stunning biodiversity of São Tomé. Hire a local guide for the morning hike through lush rainforest trails, admiring the unique flora and fauna that call this preserved area home. Keep your camera ready to capture breathtaking views and potential wildlife sightings as you delve deeper into the park.
After the hike, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, taking in the serenity of the park before continuing your adventure. Spend the afternoon visiting the historic Roca Agua Ize, a former cocoa plantation, and learn about the island's fascinating agricultural history. Take the time to stroll through the plantation grounds and perhaps sample some local chocolate treats made from the island's famous cacao.
Return to Santo António to relax and refresh before heading out for dinner. Choose from one of the local restaurants that serve traditional São Toméan cuisine, allowing your taste buds to experience the flavors of the island. End your day with a quiet evening walk through town, exploring the beautiful colonial architecture illuminated under the night sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (0.5L) | $1-2 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $3-8 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room per night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Unspoiled nature and lush landscapes to explore
- Warm, friendly locals and a relaxed pace
- Compact town center easy to walk and explore on foot
- Accessible snorkeling and light hiking nearby
- Remoteness means longer travel times and limited services
- Nightlife is low-key and not tourist-focused
- Limited healthcare facilities and few direct international connections
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Onde fica o mercado?" - Where is the market?
Places to Visit in Santo António
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic coastal views from the castle ruins, ideal for sunrise light and quiet harbor scenes.
Historic cocoa/coffee estate with colonial architecture and lush surroundings perfect for atmospheric photography.
Tiny island near Santo António with turquoise water, white sand, and dramatic sea cliffs—great for snorkeling and landscape shots.
Golden sands and gentle waves framed by palm trees, ideal for golden-hour beach photography.
Rainforest vistas and misty ridge lines offering dramatic nature photography opportunities.
Food in Santo António
Santo António Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fish or chicken stew cooked with vegetables, palm oil, and peppers, typically served with funge (a cassava-based accompaniment) or rice.
Must-Try!
Rice with fish and spices, a comforting seafood staple found in many coastal eateries.
A coconut- and palm oil–based preparation featuring greens and protein, common in island cooking and available in some local kitchens.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market where residents buy fresh fish, fruits, vegetables, and local staples; great for sampling everyday foods and observing local life.
Casual bites along the harbor offering grilled fish, plantains, fresh coconuts, and tropical fruits.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings (bom dia, boa tarde) are important. Handshakes are common; one may greet with a friendly nod or small talk. Dress modestly in town and respect local customs when visiting villages.
Ask permission before photographing people or private spaces; a courteous approach goes a long way. In markets or family settings, people are generally welcoming if approached politely.
Safety
Tipping in Santo António
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. In restaurants, leave a small amount (around 5-10%) if service is good and not included. For smaller establishments, cash tips directly to service staff are common.
Cash in local currency is widely used; some places take euros. Credit/debit cards are slowly becoming available in larger hotels or tourist-friendly spots; ATMs are limited on Principe, so bring cash for most purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry, sunny days with lower humidity and calm seas; ideal for outdoor activities, beach days, and easy coastal walks.
Wet season with higher humidity and frequent showers; lush, vibrant landscapes but be prepared for rain and occasional travel delays.
Santo António at Night
Hiking in Santo António
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails that traverse endemic flora and offer birdwatching and summit views; guided tours help visitors navigate the terrain.
Gentle coastal walks with sea views and opportunities to spot seabirds and marine life.
Airports
How to reach Santo António by plane.
Small island airport near Santo António with regional flights to São Tomé and occasional international connections; essential for arrivals and departures on Príncipe.
Main international gateway to the country, located on São Tomé; connects to Portugal, other African and European hubs; travelers typically transfer here to reach Príncipe.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The island population is a mix of Creole communities with ties to African and Portuguese heritage. Portuguese is the official language, while local creoles such as Forro and Angolar are spoken among communities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, played informally on beaches and in towns.
Traditional fishing is common among locals and recreational visitors alike.
Played in community spaces and schools; occasional local matches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santo António.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Explain choices with beans, cassava, corn, and vegetables; ask for sauces made without palm oil if avoiding animal fats; many dishes can be adapted with local plant-based ingredients.