São Tomé and Príncipe, the Island with Soul, and the Best Time to Visit, According to Local Guide Anderson Martins

São Tomé and Príncipe is one of the least-visited countries in the world and the second-smallest country in Africa. In 2025, UNESCO designated São Tomé and Príncipe as a World Biosphere Reserve — making it the first country in the world to have its entire territory granted this natural status.

Anderson Martins has been a tour guide on the islands for five years, three of them as a professional guide leading visitors from Portugal, England, France and beyond through beaches, waterfalls, tropical forests, historic cocoa and coffee plantations, and the local communities that carry the island’s soul.

Based in Água Izé on the eastern coast of São Tomé, he designs personalized itineraries in what São Toméans call “the land of Leve-Leve” — a phrase that translates loosely as “take it easy,” and captures the pace of the place.

For LocalsInsider, Anderson wrote about how he became a guide, who’s actually visiting São Tomé, why Príncipe is worth the extra journey, and the cool, authentic places to go and eat at across the island where he sends every visitor for the local flavors.

Follow him at @anderson.tours on Instagram.

How I became a tour guide in São Tomé

My name is Anderson Martins, and I’m a tour guide in São Tomé. My connection to tourism stems from the deep love I have for my homeland and my desire to share the beauty, history, and culture of this unique archipelago with visitors.

I started working in the tourism industry about five years ago, and I have three years of experience as a professional tour guide. During this time, I’ve had the opportunity to guide visitors from different countries, showing them not only the island’s most beautiful places but also the stories, traditions, and way of life of our people.

For me, being a guide isn’t just about accompanying tourists; it’s about creating experiences, conveying emotions, and ensuring that each person takes home a special memory of São Tomé.

Why tourism in São Tomé is growing — and who’s coming to see it

Tourism in São Tomé has shown very positive growth. Our country has been attracting increasing international interest due to its unspoiled nature, its beaches, its cultural richness, and the authenticity it still maintains.

In 2023, São Tomé welcomed about 35,000 visitors, and we believe this number will continue to rise, as more and more people seek out peaceful, safe destinations with a strong connection to nature.

The visitors we welcome — from Portugal to England, France, and beyond

São Tomé welcomes visitors from various parts of the world. Most tourists come from Portugal, due to the historical and cultural ties, but we also welcome people from England, France, and many other countries.

Our visitors span a range of ages. We welcome young adventurers, families, couples, and more experienced travelers seeking tranquility, contact with nature, and an experience different from traditional destinations.

São Tomé is a destination for anyone looking to discover an island with soul.

“São Tomé is a destination for anyone looking to discover an island with soul.”

Why São Tomé feels safe — and what makes it so welcoming

São Tomé is considered a safe country and is known above all for the friendliness and hospitality of its people.

Visitors can explore many places at their own pace and feel welcomed by the local population. As with any tourist destination, it’s always important to be mindful and respect the country’s customs and culture.

Safety, along with the simplicity and friendliness of the people of São Tomé, is one of the characteristics that makes the experience in São Tomé so special.

The tours I offer — from single days to multi-day itineraries across the whole island

I offer customized tours based on each visitor’s available time and interests.

We can organize day trips or multi-day tours, exploring different parts of the island: the north, the center, and the south.

Visitors can explore beaches, waterfalls, tropical forests, historic plantations, cocoa and coffee plantations, local communities, and many other sites that showcase the true essence of São Tomé.

The cost of the guided tour depends on the duration of the itinerary, the number of people, and the experiences chosen, as each trip is tailored to your specific needs.

My favorite places on the islands — the southern coast and the historic plantations

It’s hard to choose just one place, because São Tomé has so many extraordinary spots.

I have a special connection to the southern part of the island, where you’ll find some of the most beautiful beaches, breathtaking natural landscapes, and a unique sense of tranquility.

I also greatly appreciate the historic plantations, because they represent our memory and our identity. Cocoa and coffee are part of São Tomé’s history and demonstrate the importance our land has held over the years.

Why Príncipe is worth visiting — and how it differs from São Tomé

Yes, Príncipe is definitely worth visiting.

Príncipe is a magical place—smaller, more peaceful, and with even more unspoiled nature. It’s ideal for those seeking rest, exclusivity, and a deep connection with the natural environment.

São Tomé, on the other hand, offers a greater diversity of experiences, with more history, culture, beaches, mountains, and interaction with local communities.

The two islands are different, but they complement each other perfectly.

“Príncipe is a magical place—smaller, more peaceful, and with even more unspoiled nature.”

Where to base yourself — north, center, or south

I recommend that visitors explore the entire island, because each region has its own special character.

The north offers beautiful landscapes and beaches.

The central region stands out for its history, plantations, forest, and mountains.

The south is known for its incredible beaches, untamed nature, and some of the island’s most beautiful landscapes.

The best area to stay depends on the kind of experience the visitor is looking for, but ideally, you should explore São Tomé in its entirety.

The best places to experience local cuisine and vibes in São Toméan

São Tomé has several restaurants where you can eat very well and sample our traditional cuisine.

My recommendation is that every visitor try the local flavors, especially the fresh fish, traditional dishes, local produce, and São Tomé cocoa and coffee.

Rather than choosing just one restaurant, I believe that every place has its own history and charm. But here few my favorite places:

• Paga-Figo (Avenida das Nações Unidas, São Tomé)
• Vilma Casa de Petiscos (São Tomé)
• Sabor Divino – Comida Africana (Avenida Kwame N’kruma, São Tomé)
• Miónga (Angolares)
• O Pirata (Estr. de Pantufo, São Tomé) — place with a good view
• Salutar (Porto Alegre) — this place is on the South coast
• Mucumbli (Close to Neves) — this is the North part of the island
• Santola (Neves) — for fresh fish and seafood
• 7 Ondas / Coconuts Bar (Ribeira Afonso)
• Dona Teté (Avenida Marginal 12 Julho, São Tomé)
• Salama – Snack Bar (São Tomé)

What São Tomé’s nightlife is really like

Yes, there are venues where visitors can experience the music, dance, and joy of the São Toméan people.

Nightlife in São Tomé is simpler compared to big cities, but it has something very special: the opportunity to mingle with the local population and feel the island’s true energy.

When to visit São Tomé — every season has its beauty

São Tomé can be visited year-round, thanks to its tropical climate.

Every season has its own beauty. There are times that are better suited for those looking to make the most of the beaches and outdoor activities, but the island’s natural beauty is always vibrant and enchanting.

The best time is whenever you decide to discover São Tomé and let yourself be surprised by its beauty.

“The best time is whenever you decide to discover São Tomé and let yourself be surprised by its beauty.”

Why São Tomé is more than a destination

São Tomé is not just a tourist destination. It is an experience, a history, a culture, and an encounter with people who welcome every visitor with open arms.

Those who visit our island don’t just take home photographs; they take home memories, emotions, and a special connection to this little paradise in the heart of the Gulf of Guinea.

“Those who visit our island don’t just take home photographs; they take home memories, emotions, and a special connection to this little paradise in the heart of the Gulf of Guinea.”

There are also lots of great islands to explore in Europe. See our guide to Porto Santo, for example.

See if you need a visa or an e-visa to get to São Tomé and Príncipe.