Sao Tome Taxi

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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 (Sammeltaxis)

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

1. 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.

1. 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.

1. 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.

Conclusion

Taxis in São Tomé offer a convenient way to explore the island. Whether you choose an individual taxi or a shared one depends on your needs and budget. With a little planning and information, you can easily reach the sights and cultural highlights of this beautiful island.