São Tomé Taxi
.
Taxis in São Tomé: A Guide for Visitors
In the capital city of São Tomé, there are numerous yellow taxis that start from various spots in the city center. With these taxis, you can travel in different directions to explore the island. There are two main types of taxis: individual taxis and shared taxis (Sammeltaxis).
Individual Taxis
Individual taxis are private and offer trips based on your preferences. These taxis can be hailed directly on the street or ordered by phone. The prices for a ride are higher compared to shared taxis. For example, a ride from the city to Guadalupe (approximately 10 km) costs about 10 Euros.
Shared Taxis (Hiaces)
Shared taxis are a more economical option. They follow specific routes and can accommodate multiple passengers. A ride from the city to Guadalupe costs only 1 Euro in a shared taxi. These taxis are ideal if you want to save money and do not have a strict schedule.
Shared taxis are also yellow and will stop for you if you signal them anywhere in the city. If you are unsure where shared taxis are located, you can ask locals for assistance—they are usually happy to help. It's advisable to inquire at the market square, the main departure point for shared taxis, about which direction the taxis are heading. Just hop in and wait until the vehicle is full before it departs.
Motorcycle Taxis (Motoqueiros)
Another transportation option is motorcycle taxis, which are offered by many young men across the city. These motoqueiros can take you quickly to your destination and are willing to go almost anywhere.
Tips for Using Taxis
- Gather Information in Advance: If you do not speak Portuguese, it can be helpful to ask early at the central market about which shared taxis go to your desired destinations.
- Keep Track of Departure Times: Shared taxis do not always run regularly. Especially in rural areas, such as the southern part of the island, there may only be two or three taxis available each day. Therefore, plan your return trip in advance, as there are no fixed departure times.
- Nighttime & Weekend Availability: It can be more challenging to find shared taxis on weekends. On Saturdays and Sundays, there are often only a few taxis operating. Therefore, it's advisable to inquire early about available transportation options or consider using an individual taxi.
.
Affordable Island Travel: Making the most of collective Taxis
Collective taxis, known locally as "hiaces," provide a practical way to navigate the scenic landscapes of São Tomé and Príncipe. These shared taxis operate on fixed routes, transporting passengers to popular destinations while keeping costs manageable.
Hiaces are typically colorful, compact vehicles that can accommodate several passengers. They operate on a semi-scheduled basis, departing when they reach full capacity or at regular intervals, depending on the route. Many hiaces often depart from local markets, making them easily accessible and a lively starting point for your journey. This system not only allows for flexible travel without the constraints of strict schedules but also fosters a sense of community among travelers and locals.
Experiencing a ride in a hiace is quite engaging. As you settle in and take in the scenic views, you may find yourself chatting with fellow passengers, sharing stories, and gaining insights into the local culture. This friendly atmosphere enhances your travel experience, making it feel more personal and immersive.
When using hiaces, it's important to know that they primarily serve specific routes, often connecting major towns and popular sites. For instance, you can easily catch a hiace from the capital, São Tomé, to nearby points of interest such as the picturesque town of Neves or the stunning beaches along the northern coast.
Principe