My Journey to São Tomé and Príncipe Islands – June 2024
The islands of São Tomé and Príncipe, located on the equator, are a former Portuguese colony where Portuguese remains the official language. I had the pleasure of spending two incredible weeks there in June 2024. My husband went to the local university to help students studying nutrition, while I focused on getting to know the local community and their customs.
How to Get There?
We opted for a direct TAP Portugal flight from Lisbon (there are also flights from Porto). The flight to São Tomé takes about 7 hours and cost us 700 euros for a round trip. To reach Príncipe Island, we took a local flight with STP Airways, which cost an additional 200 euros. Flights between the islands are rare and quite rapidly sold out (just 16 seats), so it’s a good idea to book in advance.
Discover the Local Community
The islands of São Tomé and Príncipe are characterized by a noticeable level of poverty, visible at every turn. Walking through the villages, one can’t help but notice children running barefoot, which was a difficult sight to witness. However, despite these hardships, the people of the islands seem happy.
The approach of the locals to tourists, especially white visitors, is often influenced by the association of tourists with wealth. Children frequently shout “doce, doce,” which translates to “sweet” in Portuguese, asking for candies. Yet, they are not overly persistent or rude. Even after politely declining, they remain friendly, which stands in contrast to some other places in the world. Street vendors invite you to their shops or stalls to buy local crafts, and even if you don’t purchase anything, they thank you for visiting.
The Weather and Best Time to Visit
The climate in São Tomé and Príncipe is tropical, with consistent temperatures throughout the year, typically ranging between 25°C and 30°C. The best time to visit the islands is during the dry season, which runs from June to September. This period offers pleasant weather with minimal rainfall, ideal for exploring the islands, relaxing on the beaches, or venturing into the jungle.
Vaccinations and Health Preparations
Before traveling to São Tomé and Príncipe, it is highly recommended to consult with a healthcare professional regarding necessary vaccinations. In Portugal, I had a “consulta da viagem” (travel consultation), where the doctor provided a detailed list of recommended vaccines and medications, particularly to protect against malaria. I was given a prescription for antimalarial medications and other essentials, which I used sparingly during the trip. On the last day, we had to take something for stomach issues, but otherwise, we didn’t need to rely heavily on these medications.
It is also essential to bring strong insect repellents, as mosquitoes are prevalent and can transmit malaria. We used MUGG, which worked effectively.
Accommodations
During our stay on the islands, we stayed in various guesthouses and hotels that provided excellent service.
São Pedro Guesthouse on São Tomé Island was our main base. I highly recommend it for its helpful staff and the option to rent a car directly from the guesthouse.
We also stayed at Casa Luis, a bit further from the city center but equally charming.
For our adventure in the south of São Tomé, we stayed at Hotel Praia Inhame Ecolodge, which offered a unique, eco-friendly experience.
On Príncipe Island, we stayed at Casa Rio, a breathtaking place with delicious breakfasts.
Healthcare Situation
One aspect that deeply touched us was the poor state of healthcare on the islands. My husband, who visited a local hospital, was shocked by the conditions. Without going into specific stories, one issue stood out: the hospital hadn’t received fish for two weeks, meaning patients were deprived of any protein. It seems someone had been stealing the hospital’s fish supply, which led to a significant impact on the patients’ diet. While the issue was under investigation, this stark example illustrates the challenges faced by the local healthcare system.
Practical Tips Before Traveling
- Power outages: Frequent power cuts are common on both islands, often leading to no internet access. It’s a good idea to purchase a local SIM card, especially if you want to make reservations at restaurants. Many restaurants work on a reservation-only basis, offering only one or two dishes per day.
- Mosquito repellent: Don’t forget to bring a good mosquito repellent.
- Doctor consultation: Make sure to consult with your doctor or research the recommended vaccines before traveling.Whether you’re visiting as a family, a couple, or on your own, the sense of community and fun that radiates from this event is contagious. From the sunset parties on the beach to the laughter-filled parades, you’ll experience a side of Nazaré that you won’t find during any other time of the year. And with a camera in hand, you’ll capture memories that will last a lifetime.
Final Thoughts on the Local Community
Although São Tomé and Príncipe is a poor country, its people are rich in happiness and warmth. Everywhere we went, we saw children walking to school, often covering distances of up to 5 kilometers on foot, even at the age of 6 or 7. Older siblings usually take care of the younger ones, which adds to the sense of community.
Children’s Day Celebration
One of the highlights of our trip was being invited to celebrate Children’s Day in the village of Belo Monte on Príncipe Island. The atmosphere was vibrant and full of joy. We watched as mothers and grandmothers dressed the children in their finest clothes and carefully braided their hair. We were also invited to join the local festivities, where children performed dances, sang songs, and proudly showed us their classrooms. It was a day full of laughter and happiness that will stay with me for a long time.
Helping the Local Community
While tourists often bring sweets for the local children, this practice is not ideal. Instead, it’s better to support local organizations that understand the community’s needs. After speaking with locals and seeking advice, I brought along several toothbrushes and toothpaste, which I donated to a local preschool. Additionally, we distributed some of my children’s toys among the kids.
When helping in poorer countries, it’s important to think carefully and avoid doing more harm than good. If you’re considering bringing donations, make sure to consult with local groups or schools to ensure you’re helping in a meaningful way.
Feel free to leave your thoughts or share your experience with helping in impoverished areas. I’d love to hear your perspective.
Snap the Magic of Nazaré! Turn Your Visit into Picture-Perfect Memories!
While you’re visiting Nazaré, why not capture the magic of this beautiful coastal town with a family, couple, or kids photoshoot? Nazaré isn’t just about its breathtaking views and golden beaches—it’s about the memories you create here. Whether it’s a playful family day, a romantic couple’s stroll by the ocean, or your kids running freely through the sand, these moments are priceless.
As a local photographer living in Nazaré, I’m always available to help you freeze these memories in time. With insider knowledge of the best spots, hidden gems, and ideal times for the perfect light, I can ensure that your photos reflect the true beauty of this place and your experience here. No need to plan months in advance—just reach out while you’re in town, and we can create something special together. Let’s turn your time in Nazaré into timeless images you’ll cherish forever!
Feel free to contact me anytime, and let’s make your visit to Nazaré even more unforgettable with a fun and relaxed photoshoot!
Snap the Magic of Nazaré! Turn Your Visit into Picture-Perfect Memories!
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