Getting around in São Tomé and Príncipe
Rent a Car in São Tomé
This is one of the most flexible and convenient ways to explore São Tomé, especially if you want to visit remote areas or travel on your own schedule. There are a few car rental agencies in the country, often located in the capital city or at the airport. Be sure to check if you need an international driving permit.
If you plan to rent a car and drive in São Tomé and Príncipe, you will typically need two things:
- Your Home Country Driving License: You should carry your valid driving license issued by your home country. Make sure that the license is not expired and is in good condition so that details are legible.
- International Driving Permit (IDP): In addition to your regular driving license, an International Driving Permit may be required. An IDP is a document that translates your national driving license into several languages and allows you to drive in many countries worldwide. It is recognized internationally and is typically required or recommended when renting a vehicle abroad. Check this with the car rental agency
Local car rentals in São Tome
Prestige - Rent-a-car
Rua Padre Martinho Pinto da Rocha,
Telefone: (+239) 222 77 79
Telemóvel: (+239) 991 69 40
Avis Rent-a-car
(representante CFAO STP MOTORS)
Praia Emília, São Tomé
Telef: (+239) 222 69 92; (+239) 991 10 80
e-mail: avis.stp@hotmail.com
Hanna & Silva Lda.
Lucumi- Riboque
Hannaesilva_rent@hotmail.com
Contacts: 00239.2226282/9839188/9066466
Turiart - Turismo Artesanato, Lda
TURIART LDA- TURISMO E ARTESANATO, LIMITADA- RENT A CAR
AV.MARGINAL 12 DE JULHO-ÁGUA-GRANDE-S.TOMÉ-
IMPERIAL STP, Lda
Rua Viriato da Cruz - S. Tome
Sao Tome and Principe
+239 9907964 / +239 9806367
Email: services@imperial-stp.st facebook.com/imperial.stp.lda
imperial-stp.blogspot.com/
Hire a Taxi or Private Driver
Taxis are readily available in the capital, São Tomé city, and can also be arranged for day trips or longer excursions around the island. Hiring a private driver can be beneficial as they often provide valuable local knowledge and insights.
Motorbikes or Scooters
These can be rented and are a good way to navigate the island, suitable for more adventurous travellers, adventurous riding on sometimes rough and winding roads.
Guided Tours
There are local tour operators that offer guided tours around the island. This can include cultural tours, bird watching, hiking, and visits to coffee and cocoa plantations. A guide can enhance your experience and provide access to areas you may not discover on your own.
Public Transportation
Mini-buses, known locally as 'Hiaces', are the main form of public transport. They operate on fixed routes and are an affordable way to get around, although they can be crowded and may not cover all areas you wish to visit.
Road conditions & Risks
Note: Roads in both islands are in poor condition, limiting accessibility to locations of interest including a lack of road maintenance, leading to near impassability during rainy season. Obsolete road signals.
Exploring São Tomé requires a sense of adventure, and while the transport options may not be as extensive as in more developed tourist destinations, they provide a closer connection to the island's natural beauty and culture.
Regardless of your mode of transportation, keep the following in mind:
- Road Conditions: The road infrastructure in São Tomé is limited, with many secondary roads in poor condition, especially during the rainy season.
- Navigation: GPS and mobile apps may not always be reliable due to limited coverage, so having a paper map as a backup is advisable.
- Safety: Always take local advice on road safety and avoid driving after dark due to limited street lighting and potential road hazards.
