Sao Tome and Principe Visa Requirements
For 🇪🇸 Spain passport holders
Great news! Spain passport holders can enter Sao Tome and Principe without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 15 days within any 180-day period.
Spanish citizens can enter São Tomé and Príncipe without a visa for stays up to 15 days. For longer stays, a visa can be obtained on arrival or online. The country is a small island nation in the Gulf of Guinea.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond stay
Blank Pages
1 page(s) required
Multiple Entry
Allowed
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Entry Conditions
Valid passport with at least 6 months validity, return ticket, and proof of accommodation.
Fines and potential complications.
Travel Essentials
Health & Safety
Safety Rating
Vaccinations
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Malaria prophylaxis
Tap Water
Bottled water recommended
Safety Tips
São Tomé and Príncipe is one of Africa's safest countries with very low crime rates. The people are friendly and welcoming. Normal travel precautions apply. The islands are remote but that contributes to their tranquil atmosphere. Healthcare facilities are limited.
Money & Costs
Currency
Db São Tomé and Príncipe Dobra (STN)
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget: $60 · Mid: $120 · Luxury: $300+
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. 10% in restaurants is generous.
Practical Info
Power
Type C, F, 220V 50Hz
Driving
Right side
Emergency
112 (Emergency), 222 (Police)
Getting There
Main Airports
Príncipe (PCP) · São Tomé (TMS)
Culture & Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit São Tomé is during the dry season from June to September (gravana). January and February are also relatively dry. The wet seasons (October-November and March-May) bring heavy rainfall. The climate is tropical year-round.
Cultural Notes
São Tomé and Príncipe was uninhabited until Portuguese colonization in the 15th century. The population descends from African slaves brought to work cacao plantations and Portuguese settlers. The culture blends African and Portuguese elements. Music, especially the ússua and socopé rhythms, is vibrant.
Insider Tips
Portuguese is the official language. The Dobra is the currency. The islands are small and can be explored in a week. Chocolate production from local cacao is famous. Beaches are beautiful and often empty. Tourism infrastructure is developing but still basic. Bring cash.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Spanish citizens need a visa for São Tomé?
Spanish citizens can visit São Tomé and Príncipe visa-free for up to 15 days. For longer stays, a visa can be obtained on arrival for approximately €20-40 or applied for online in advance. The process is straightforward. Bring proof of accommodation and return ticket.
What is special about São Tomé chocolate?
São Tomé is famous for high-quality cacao grown since colonial times. The volcanic soil and climate produce excellent beans. Several roças (former plantations) now produce artisanal chocolate, some recognized internationally. Visitors can tour plantations like Terreiro Velho and sample bean-to-bar chocolate. It's a unique agrotourism experience.
What can I do in São Tomé and Príncipe?
Activities include: visiting former colonial roças (plantations) now producing chocolate, hiking to Pico de São Tomé, relaxing on pristine beaches like Praia Jalé and Praia Banana, snorkeling and diving, whale watching (July-October), exploring colonial architecture in São Tomé city, and visiting Príncipe's UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The pace is slow and relaxing.
How do I get to Príncipe Island?
Príncipe is reached by short flight (35 minutes) from São Tomé with local airlines. There's also a ferry but it's less reliable and takes much longer. Príncipe is smaller, more remote, and has fewer facilities than São Tomé but offers a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and some of Africa's most pristine landscapes.
Is São Tomé expensive?
São Tomé is moderately priced for Africa. Budget travelers can find guesthouses for €30-50/night. Mid-range hotels cost €80-150. Luxury roça hotels charge €200-400+. Food is reasonable at local restaurants. The limited competition means prices are higher than mainland Africa but lower than other island destinations.