São Tomé and Príncipe Airport Tips

For most travellers, the main issue on arrival is cash. There is an ATM at the airport, but it is not reliable, and neither Visa nor Mastercard should be treated as dependable. Bring euros in cash. If you want the best value, do not change money at the airport. Wait until you get to town. The best place is outside Zima Bar on Rua Angola, where street money changers give 26 dobra to the euro.

SIM cards are sold at São Tomé Airport, but only if the kiosk is open. Sometimes it is, sometimes it is not, so this is not something to rely on.

Taxis are not usually lined up in a formal rank, although there is generally one around somewhere. If you arrive without local cash, airport staff can usually help arrange a taxi into the city. The standard fare is €20, and if you take this option, you must pay that fare before leaving the country. The journey to town normally takes no more than 20 minutes, even if you are going to one of the furthest city hotels. Drivers have been known to put two couples in one car and charge both separately. Say no.

If you want to avoid that on arrival, we arrange airport transfers to and from São Tomé International Airport for city hotels at €30 for up to 2 people. Each extra person is €5. If you are hiring a car through us, we will meet you outside with a sign and a car ready for you. The handover takes about five minutes.

Baggage is usually straightforward. There is one belt, and because flights are limited, luggage is normally fairly quick.

For departures, the same general rule applies: keep things simple, arrive prepared, and do not assume every service will work exactly as you want on the spot. There is a small coffee bar hidden behind the wall in the departures lounge, and a gift shop selling small souvenirs. Do not expect a duty free shopping experience.