Travel Safety in Sao Tome and Principe
Overview
Sao Tome and Principe is generally safe. The country is made up of two main islands and a few smaller islets.
The security risk most likely to be encountered by travellers to Sao Tome and Principe is petty street crime. There have been reports of pickpocketing and theft from hotel rooms in Sao Tome city and, less regularly, in rural areas and resorts. Violent crime is rare.
Demonstrations do take place on Sao Tome island, usually linked to service delivery grievances. These can involve some disruptions and even violence.
Currently, there are no major concerns of terrorism, kidnapping or conflict in Sao Tome and Principe.
Medical care is considered to be very limited, particularly outside Sao Tome city.
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Basic information
Medical:
112 (fire); 22 22 22 2 (police); +239 22 21 22 2 (ambulance). Operators may not speak English. Response times and services are likely to be poor.
Money:
The currency is the Sao Tome and Principe dobra (STD).
ATMs that accept foreign bank cards are not available.
Credit cards are only accepted in some international hotels.
Language:
The country’s main language is Portuguese. English is not widely spoken.
Water:
Tap water is generally not safe to consume.
Connectivity:
3G and 4G available.