TAP Corporate Homepage
Located in the Gulf of Guinea, two main islands and small islets constitute this insular state. Book a flight to São Tomé and...
Rest on warm crystalline water
Tempting? On São Tomé’s island, there are beaches near the capital, such as São Gabriel. But the best are found up north, in Santana and Das Conchas. And down south, where the beautiful Jalé beach is waiting for you. On Príncipe’s island, the beaches of Bom-Bom, Évora and Banana will guarantee a great time.
Absorb the landscape
Between boat rides, scuba diving and marine observation, there’s plenty to choose from. The Obô National Park is one of the country’s treasures, protecting biodiversity on the two islands. And don’t forget São Sebastião fortress and the city market. Wherever you go, you’ll be welcomed with a smile.
Culture and Business
Before leaving
Make sure you have your passport and boarding pass with you. Depending on your country of origin, arrange your visa or other required documentation well in advance. Go to the traveler's office and take all the necessary vaccinations and prevention medications, if applicable.
Climate
The climate of Sao Tome and Principe is equatorial, with average temperatures between 22ºC and 30ºC. It is an extremely humid climate, with the rainiest time of the year between February and May, and October and December.
Time zone
GMT
Geography and Politics
Sao Tome and Principe is an archipelago composed of two main islands (Sao Tome Island and Principe Island) and several smaller islands. It is located in the Gulf of Guinea and is a representative democratic semi-presidential republic, where the president is head of state and the prime minister is head of government. It has a multi-party system.
Tips and Payment
The currency of the country is the Sao Tome Dobra (STD). It is customary to leave a tip in restaurants, the value depends on the service provided.
Language and expressions to memorize
The official language of Sao Tome and Principe is Portuguese. Some useful phrases in Portuguese are: “olá” = hi, “por favor” = please; “muito obrigado/a” = thank you very much; “desculpe” = sorry.
What to do
Ask openly about family and general life and show genuine interest. It is important to establish a relationship of proximity with whom you are doing business.
What not to do
Do not be intimidated by the physical proximity and effusiveness of communication by people - they are a very open and communicative people.
What to wear
Opt for a formal look for business meetings. Due to the hot and humid weather, you can wear more practical clothes in casual situations, such as a short-sleeved shirt and pants for men and a light dress or skirt and blouse for women.
First contact
The most common form of greeting in business is the handshake. It is customary to greet someone with two kisses when you meet them for the first time in an informal context. The usual greeting between two men is a handshake.