Travel advice for Sao Tome and Principe

Hungary advises a high degree of caution for Sao Tome and Principe.

Japan advises a high degree of caution for Sao Tome and Principe.

Exercise caution in Sao Tome and Principe because of robberies and demonstrations that can become violent, and avoid isolated beaches. During elections, avoid gatherings, crowds and demonstrations, follow local instructions and monitor local news. Drugs, including soft drugs, are prohibited and penalties are severe; LGBTQ+ travellers may face discrimination and aggression. Do not photograph government or military buildings or uniformed people, and buy comprehensive travel insurance because healthcare is limited.

For São Tomé and Príncipe, use increased caution because pickpocketing occurs in markets, traffic streets and outside hotels, and terrorism cannot be ruled out. Avoid protests, demonstrations, political rallies and crowds, and follow authorities' advice. Be alert to piracy in the Gulf of Guinea, especially off Nigeria's coast, and to malaria, dengue and HIV/AIDS. Avoid night driving because roads are poor and may become impassable in the rainy season.

Exercise increased caution because medical services are limited and there are no adequate trauma or ambulance services. Even minor health problems may require medical evacuation at the traveler’s expense. U.S. government employees working for the U.S. Mission no longer need special permission to travel because of safety risks.

Exercise normal precautions in São Tomé and Príncipe, where security is good, and monitor local conditions. Hospitals fall below European standards, malaria occurs nationwide, and schistosomiasis is a risk when swimming or wading. Never drink tap water, exercise caution with raw food, use insect protection, and take travel insurance. A yellow fever certificate is required for arrivals via risk countries, including Accra or Addis Ababa, but not direct EU flights.

Travel to São Tomé and Príncipe is generally safe when usual precautions are taken. Access to high-quality healthcare may be limited, so special care is needed.

Exercise normal security precautions in São Tomé and Príncipe. Petty crime, armed robbery, burglaries, discrimination against 2SLGBTQI+ people, frequent power outages, unrest and piracy pose risks, and some countries have imposed entry restrictions and health screening related to Ebola after visits to affected countries. Avoid deserted beaches after dark and public displays of affection. Hazardous roads outside the capital and remote travel require caution, as do diving and motorcycle taxis.

Exercise normal precautions when travelling to São Tomé and Príncipe. Because Estonia has no representation there, seek consular help from Portugal and check other countries' travel information. Estonian citizens do not need a visa for stays of up to 15 days, but must apply for one for longer stays. Entry conditions may change without notice.

Germany advises normal precautions for Sao Tome and Principe.

Hong Kong advises normal precautions for Sao Tome and Principe.

Exercise normal precautions when travelling to São Tomé and Príncipe. Tourists may visit for up to 15 days without a visa, but need a valid passport, pay an entry fee and provide yellow fever proof when arriving from a listed transmission risk country. Medical facilities are limited and many conditions require evacuation, so have insurance and accessible funds for treatment and repatriation.