Day 1: Arrival in São Tomé and Explore the City
After arriving in the São Tomé International Airport, you’ll be greeted by the island’s laid-back atmosphere. Take a deep breath—you’ve officially made it to paradise.
Head to your hotel, drop your bags, and start exploring São Tomé city. Start with the National Museum located inside Fort São Sebastião. This is your chance to learn a little bit about the island’s colonial history under the Portuguese. The fort has amazing views of the coastline, so be sure to bring your camera.
After the museum, stroll through the city streets. You’ll come across markets selling local crafts and fresh produce. Stop by the Independence Square, a central spot surrounded by beautiful colonial architecture. Grab a snack at one of the street stalls and enjoy an introduction to the country’s flavors. Don’t miss the fresh coconut water.
In the afternoon, visit the São Tomé Cathedral. It’s a quiet place where you can admire some traditional design elements. Nearby, you’ll find the Presidential Palace. Though you can’t enter, it is one of the city’s most iconic buildings.
Your evening could end with a seafood dinner at a restaurant along the beach. Go with simple grilled fish or octopus, and pair it with a cold local beer. Take your time and enjoy the relaxed vibe.
Day 2: Discover Northern São Tomé
On day two, head north. Rent a car or arrange for a guide to help you explore the less-traveled areas outside the city.
First, make your way to Lagoa Azul. It’s a quiet bay with clear blue waters and plenty of spots to swim or just rest on the rocks. The place feels untouched by tourism and is perfect for a quiet morning.
From there, continue toward Neves, a small fishing town. You can’t miss the local fish market. Watch the fishermen as they haul in their catch, and if you’re feeling brave, sample some fresh, grilled fish from a stall.
After lunch, drive to the Monte Café Coffee Plantation for an afternoon of history and agriculture. Take a guided tour and learn about São Tomé’s deep coffee culture. The guides here are excellent, and the tasting at the end of the tour is always a highlight.
End the day with a visit to Cascata São Nicolau, a beautiful waterfall that’s fairly easy to reach. It’s a good spot to cool down and relax before heading back to São Tomé city.
Day 3: Head South to São João dos Angolares
Wake up early and head south along the coastline to São João dos Angolares, one of the prettiest regions of the island.
On your way, make a quick stop at Boca do Inferno. This is a natural blowhole in the coastal cliffs where waves crash into the rocks. It makes for some great photos but also serves as a reminder of the island’s wild nature.
Next, continue to São João dos Angolares. It’s a tiny village, but it’s well-known for its art and community projects. Make your way to Roca São João—an eco-lodge and art space where you can see works from local artists. Afterward, indulge in a farm-to-table lunch prepared by renowned chef João Carlos Silva. Every dish is made with local ingredients, and it’s one of the best meals you’ll have on the island.
After lunch, you have options. You could wander into the village and chat with locals or head to Praia das Sete Ondas (Seven Waves Beach). This beach isn’t for swimming, but the views are stunning, and it’s the perfect place to walk and unwind.
Return to São Tomé in the evening, and spend a quiet night reflecting on the day. Maybe even sneak in another seafood dinner or simply relax at your hotel.
Day 4: Day Trip to Ilhéu das Rolas
Your fourth day takes you on a day trip to Ilhéu das Rolas, an island located just south of São Tomé, right on the equator.
You can get to the island by driving to the southern tip of São Tomé and hopping on a boat from Porto Alegre. Once you reach Ilhéu das Rolas, spend the day snorkeling, swimming, or just lounging on the pristine beaches. The waters are calm and full of marine life.
Don’t miss the chance to visit the equator line marker. It’s one of those bucket-list things where you can stand in both the northern and southern hemispheres at the same time.
There’s also an option to take a short hike to the island’s highest point, where you can get panoramic views of both the island and the coastline of São Tomé.
Spend the afternoon enjoying a slow lunch at the local restaurant before catching the boat back in the late afternoon. Once back on São Tomé, you’ll probably feel ready for a quiet evening. Grab a light dinner and reflect on the incredible day.
Day 5: Explore the East Coast and Beach Time
Your final day on the island is more laid-back. Head to the east coast and spend the day at some of the island’s best beaches.
Start with Praia Micondó. This is one of those hidden spots that feels like you’ve stumbled upon a secret beach. It’s quiet, with soft sand and shallow waters perfect for swimming.
If you’re preferring something more developed, head to Praia das Conchas. This beach is a bit busier, with local families often setting up for the day. The waters here are also calm, making it great for a swim.
Close to the beach, you’ll find more opportunities to try local food from small vendors. Savor the moment—you’re about to leave, so soak in every last bit of island serenity.
In the later afternoon, as your time in São Tomé comes to an end, make your way back to the city. Spend the evening strolling along the waterfront one last time or find a rooftop bar to watch the sunset.
For dinner, treat yourself to something special—perhaps lobster or shrimp from one of the nicer restaurants in the city. Toast to your adventure before resting up for your flight home tomorrow.
Final Thoughts
São Tomé and Príncipe may be small and often overlooked, but they offer a great mix of culture, nature, and relaxation. With five days, you’ll have time to see a little bit of everything without feeling rushed. From gorgeous beaches to historic towns, each day reveals something new. This itinerary keeps things flexible so you can enjoy the sights at your own pace. You’ll leave feeling refreshed, with a deeper understanding of these islands, and probably already dreaming about returning one day.
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