Where are sao tome principe located. The African island state of Sao Tome and Principe. Entertainment and attractions Sao Tome and Principe

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SAO TOME AND PRINCIPE, Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, an island nation in western Africa. Capital - Sao Tome (60 thousand people - 2009). Territory - 1,001 thousand square meters. km. Administrative-territorial division - 7 districts. Population - 183.2 thousand people. (2012). Official language - Portuguese. Religion - Christianity. The monetary unit is good. National holiday - July 12 - Independence Day (1975). Sao Tome and Principe has been a member of the UN since 1975, the Non-Aligned Movement, the Organization of African Unity (OAU) since 1975, the African Union (AU) since 2002 and the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

Geographic location and boundaries.

Located in the Gulf of Guinea of ​​the Atlantic Ocean off the western coast of Central Africa (300 km from the coast of Gabon and 400 km from Nigeria). Includes the islands: Sao Tome (836 sq. km), Principe (128 sq. km), located at a distance of about 150 km from one another, and the small islands of Rolas and Pedras Tignosas.

State flag.

A four-color panel of alternating horizontal stripes of the same size - two green and one yellow (in the center) color. The yellow stripe features two black five-pointed stars. On the left, a red triangle is depicted along the entire height of the cloth.

Nature.

The islands are of volcanic origin. The relief is mountainous, volcanic cones stand out. Mountains occupy 2/3 of the territory of the island of Sao Tome, and on Principe they are located in the southern part. The coastal plains are located in the west of Sao Tome and in the north of Principe. The highest point of the island of Sao Tome is Pico de Sao Tome (2024 m), the island of Principe is the peak of Principe (948 m). There are many shallow bays on the coast, inaccessible to the entry of large ocean-going ships. The length of the coastline is 209 km.

The climate is tropical maritime. Its formation is influenced by the air masses of the Atlantic Ocean, mountains and marshes of coastal regions. The average annual air temperature on the plains is +26° (Celsius), at an altitude of 700 m above sea level - +20° High peaks are covered with snow. In the hottest month (January), the air temperature on the plains can rise to +30°C, and in the coldest month (July) it can drop to +20°C. Rainy season - October-May, dry (gravana) - June-September. The greatest amount of precipitation falls in the southwest and in the central mountainous regions of Sao Tome (3500–5000 mm). Developed river network. The major rivers of Sao Tome Island are the Agua Grande and Io Grande, the Principe Islands are Agulhas, Banzu and Papagayu. The rivers are fast and rapids. The population is provided with fresh drinking water.

Forests occupy 32% of the territory (2001). The flora of the islands has about 560 plant species, but 19.4% of the species are endemic on Sao Tome, and 12.7% on Principe. Tropical forests are preserved only on mountain slopes at an altitude above 900 m above sea level. Peach and citrus trees also grow on the slopes of the mountains covered with thick thickets of tall grass. On the coasts, in the mouths of the rivers - mangrove forests. Banana, mango, almond, cocoa tree, coconut tree, oba (tropical giant tree), papaya (melon tree), cinchona and breadfruit trees grow in coastal areas. Since 1990, an EU-funded forest conservation program has been implemented on the island of Sao Tome. The animal world is not rich. African civet (a spotted-striped animal), wild boars, weasels, bats, flying dogs and macaque monkeys live in the forest. Of the reptiles, there are black cobra, many species of lizards, chameleons. The avifauna is diverse: sunbirds, many species of parrots, turacos, hawks, etc. Mosquitoes and mosquitoes are widespread throughout the territory. Coastal waters are rich in fish (shark, barracuda, flying fish, sea bass, needlefish, tuna). There are a lot of shrimps, lobsters, land and sea crabs, as well as oysters.

Population.

Most of the population is concentrated on the island of Sao Tome. The population density is approx. 183 people per 1 sq. km (2012).

The average annual population growth is 1.996%.

Birth rate - 37.02 per 1000 people, mortality - 7.93 per 1000 people.

Child mortality - 51.83 per 1000 newborns.

The average life expectancy is 63.49 years (62.27 for men and 64.74 for women). (All figures are current as of 2012).

It was formed from Bantu-speaking Africans, Forrush mestizos (descendants from mixed marriages of Portuguese and African colonists), Angolarish (descendants of Angolan slaves), as well as contract workers from Angola, Cape Verde and Mozambique and their descendants. 1.5% of the population are Europeans, mostly Portuguese. In addition to Portuguese, the Forro language (local Portuguese-based Creole) and several dialects are common. Large cities: Neves, Santana, Santo Amaru and Trindade (Sao Tome Island), Santo Antonio (Principe Island).

Religion.

Christianity is practiced by 90% of the population (the majority are Catholics - 83% of the population) - 2002. The spread of Christianity began in the middle of the 16th century. Part of the indigenous population adheres to traditional African beliefs.

State device.

Parliamentary republic. According to the current constitution (1990), the head of state and supreme commander of the armed forces is the president, who is elected by parliament for a term of 5 years. Eligible for a second term. The Council of Ministers is appointed by the President on the proposal of the Prime Minister. Deputies of the National Assembly (55-seat parliament) are elected for 4 years.

Head of State: President Manuel Pinto da Costa (since 3 September 2011)
head of government: Prime Minister Patrice Emery Trovoada (since 14 August 2010)

Judicial system.

The judicial system is based on the Portuguese legal system with the application of customary law.

Defense.

Military service (2.5 years) is compulsory. The status of the armed forces was legislated in 1993 (in 1992 the army and the police were reorganized into two police formations: one to maintain public order, the other to investigate crimes). In the late 1990s, Portugal provided active assistance in the technical re-equipment of the army.

Foreign policy.

Diplomatic relations with the USSR were established on August 9, 1975. There are no diplomatic missions on either side.

Economy.

agricultural country. It is one of the poorest countries in Africa, one of the largest consumers of foreign aid per capita.

The republic's economy is directly dependent on foreign aid. Receives financial assistance from the IMF under the HIPC (Heavily Indebted Poor Countries) program, provided to the poorest countries with high external debt. In 2001, international creditors wrote off $200 million (83% of the country's external debt). Despite falling world prices for cocoa beans and rising fuel prices, GDP growth increased by 3% in 2001 (due to a 45% increase in exports of cocoa beans).

The United States and Nigeria are interested in developing deposits of oil found in 2002 (its reserves are estimated at 6-11 billion barrels). The latter has been actively involved in oil exploration and is estimated to receive 60% of oil revenues.

GDP (official rate) in 2011 amounted to 248 million US dollars.

Per capita in 2011 accounted for 2300 US dollars.

Agriculture.

Cultivated land makes up 2% of the territory. Half of the economically active population is employed in agriculture. The basis of agriculture is the cultivation of cocoa beans. Bananas, legumes, cinnamon, coffee, corn, cassava, papayas, peppers and soybeans are also grown. Natural and climatic conditions allow you to collect two or three crops of vegetables per year. Livestock development is hampered by outbreaks of bovine tuberculosis and African swine fever. Poultry farming (breeding of chickens) is developing. Fishing is focused on the domestic market (fish catch in 2001 - 4.02 thousand tons).

Industry.

Processing: textile, forestry, clothing and agricultural processing enterprises (production of palm oil, soap and beer). There is an increase in production in the construction sector.

International trade.

Imports greatly exceed exports. The volume of imports in 2002 amounted to 24.8 million US dollars, exports - 5.5 million US dollars. 80% of exports are cocoa beans, copra (dried coconut kernel), bananas, coffee and palm oil. Export partners are the Netherlands (30.1%), Poland (11.8%), Canada (9.7%), Germany, the Philippines and Spain (each 7.5%), Belgium (6.5%), France and Portugal (4.3% each) - 2002. The basis of imports is oil products, mechanical and electrical equipment, food products. The main exporters are Portugal (51.4%), Germany (10.1%), Great Britain (7.6%) and Belgium (6.3%) - 2003.

Energy.

58.8% of electricity is generated by hydroelectric power plants (Guega, Contador).

Transport.

There is no railroad. The total length of motor roads is 320 km, of which 218 km are paved (2002). There are 3 airports. Regular air links with Portugal, Gabon and Equatorial Guinea. In 1992, the international airport in Sao Tome was modernized. The marine merchant fleet consists of 24 ships. Ports: Neves, Sao Tome, and Santo Antonio.

Finance and credit.

Monetary unit - dobro (STD) = 100 centimos. The exchange rate of the national currency in December 2003 was: 1 USD = 9636.3 STD.

administrative device.

The country is divided into 7 districts (dishtritus).

political organizations.

A multi-party system has developed: "The Movement for the Liberation of Sao Tome and Principe - the Social Democratic Party", MLSTP - SDP (Movimento de Libertação de São Tomé et Príncipe - Partido Social Democrata, MLSTP - PSD), chairman. - Manuel Pinto da Costa (Manuel Pinto da Costa); Independent Democratic Action, ADI (Açcão Democrática Independente, ADI), leader - José Fret Lau Chong; "People's Party of Progress", NPP (Partido Popular do Progresso, PPP), leader - Francisco SILVA (Francisco Silva); “Democratic Unity Party - Reflection Group, PDE-GR (Partido de Convergência Democrática - Grupo de Reflexão, PCD-GR), chairman. - Arzemir dos Prazeres (Arzemir dos Prazeres).

trade union associations.

National Organization of Workers of Sao Tome and Principe (Organizacão Nacional de Trabalhadores de São Tomé e Príncipe, ONTSTP). Founded in 1989. General Secretary - João Tovares.

Education.

Compulsory primary education (4 years). It is received from the age of six. Secondary education (7 years) consists of two cycles - 5 and 2 years. In 1997, the OPEC Fund for International Development financed the construction of a polytechnic institute. In 2000, 579 teachers taught in 71 primary schools and 20.3 thousand students studied, in 10 secondary schools - 414 teachers and 8.4 thousand students, respectively. In 2001, 93.67 thousand people were literate. (49.19 thousand men and 44.49 thousand women).

Healthcare.

Malaria, tuberculosis and yellow fever are widespread, there are AIDS patients. Personnel of medical institutions are trained abroad.

Press, radio broadcasting, television, Internet.

The government weekly newspaper Diario da República (Diário da República - "The Newspaper of the Republic"), Labor (Labor - "Labor"), Notícias (Notícias - "News") and others are published. Since 1985, the news agency STP- Press (STP-Press), radio (since 1958) and television. In 2002 there were 9 thousand Internet users.

Tourism.

Foreign tourists are attracted by the pristine beauty of nature, volcanoes, original culture and colonial architecture. The tourist season is limited due to prolonged rains, and strong currents make the sea unsafe for swimming. The underdevelopment of tourist services is compensated by low prices. In 1992, the tourist complexes "Bombom" (Principe Island) and "Santana" (Sao Tome Island) were opened. Hotel "Miramar" in 1995 was rented by investors from Germany for a period of 20 years.

In 2000 tourism revenue was US$9.9 million. In 2001, the influx of tourists increased by 25% (7.2 thousand people). 30% of tourists are Portuguese, 15% are French. Visa regime. Most hotels and taxi drivers accept US dollars. Currency is exchanged in banks and large hotels, there is a black currency market. Bargaining in private shops and markets is appropriate. Tipping (10–15%) is accepted in the service sector. The import and export of products made from the skins of wild animals, as well as products made of gold and silver without declarations is prohibited. Attractions: Cathedral of the 16th century. in the city of Sao Tome, the National Museum in Fort San Sebastian on the outskirts of the capital, the former mansion of the first president of Angola A. Neto, Praia das Sete Ondas (“Seven Waves Beach” is the best place for swimming on the island of Sao Tome) , Trindade, the San Nicolaus waterfall and the extinct volcano Pico de Sao Tome.

Architecture, fine arts and crafts.

The architecture of the cities is designed in the Portuguese style. The buildings in the villages and on the outskirts of the city are wooden, built on piles, the roof is laid from boards or palm leaves. The art of wooden round sculpture (carvings of people and animals) has been developed. Coconut shell lamps are original and decorated by local artisans with national ornaments.

Literature.

National literature began to be created in the second half of the 19th century. in Portuguese based on folklore. Later, works in the Forro language appeared. Founder of national poetry - C. da Costa Alegre (first collection Poetry published in 1916). Prose has evolved since the 1930s (collection Mary from the city(1937) F. di Almeida and others). Modern writers and poets: Alda do Espirito Santo (author of the text of the national anthem), Francisco Costa Alegre, Albertina Braganza, Carlos do Espirito Santo (novel Memories of the present, 2001). Olinda Beja and Rafael Branco belong to the younger generation of writers.

Music and theatre.

Traditions of folk dance are preserved: d "jambi, ussua (the dance is similar to the European mazurka), tesha (common on the island of Principe), bliga game dance. For several decades now vocal-instrumental ensembles "Africa Negra", "Sangazusa" and "Untuesh" perform with great success. An indispensable attribute of holidays and celebrations are the traditional theatrical pantomimes of dansu-kongo, puita and sokop (all age groups take part in them, and some of the participants are dressed in ritual costumes), as well as theatrical musical performances of stlev and tlund. The theater is semi-professional. The modern theater group "Pau Pretu" ("Black Stick") is popular. In the folk theater "Chiloli" plays based on medieval European texts are staged, one of them is The Tragedy of the Marquis de Mantua and Emperor Charlemagne. The name of the modern actor and director Miguel Hurst is widely known.

Story.

colonial period.

The history of the settlement of the archipelago has not been fully studied. The first Europeans to land on the islands (1470-1471) were the Portuguese navigators Pedro Escobar and Juan Gomes. The Portuguese exploration of the island of Sao Tome (named after Saint Tome) began in 1493, and the island of Principe (named after one of the heirs to the Portuguese throne) - from 1502. The colonists founded the city of Sao Tome and started growing sugar cane imported from the island of Madeira.

In 1522 the islands were declared a possession of Portugal. On sugar cane plantations, the labor of slaves, imported mainly from Angola, was widely used. During the 16th and 17th centuries Dutch and French pirates established their control over the islands for a certain period. The performances of the slaves forced many colonists to leave the archipelago. In 1753 the seat of the colonial administration was transferred to Principe. For almost 400 years, Sao Tome and Principe served as a transit base for slave ships on the way from Africa to Brazil (the slaves called them "islands of death") and for merchant ships on the way from Portugal to India. From 1800, coffee began to be grown on the islands, and from 1822, cocoa beans. In 1852, Sao Tome again became the administrative center. Slavery was officially abolished in 1869, but actually existed here until 1875. The authorities began to encourage the influx of new settlers "countertadush" - contract workers from Angola, Cape Verde and Mozambique (100 thousand people arrived in Sao Tome from 1901 to 1928). Living and working conditions equated them with the position of slaves. In 1951, the archipelago was declared an "overseas province" of Portugal. In response to mass refusals of the population in 1952-1953 to work for Europeans, the authorities burned villages and arrested rebels. In 1963, 90% of the workers were on strike. The first political organization, the "Committee for the Liberation of Sao Tome and Principe" (CLSTP), was created in 1960. Since 1972, it advocated independence under the name "Movement for the Liberation of Sao Tome and Principe" (MSTP). In August 1974, Portugal recognized the islands' right to self-government.

Period of independent development.

On July 2, 1975, the independent Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe (DRSTP) was formed. The first president of the country was the leader of the DOSP, Manuel Pinto da Costa. The government took a course on a non-capitalist path of development. The implementation of the economic transformation was complicated by the mass exodus of qualified Portuguese administrators, civil servants and most contract workers. Under pressure from the IMF, in 1987 the country began implementing structural adjustment programs (SAP). On September 10, 1990, a new constitution was adopted, which consolidated the multi-party system and limited the president's tenure to two 5-year terms. In November 1990, the DOSTP was renamed the "Movement for the Liberation of Sao Tome and Principe - Social Democratic Party" (MLSTP - SDP). Miguel Trovoada won the April 1991 multi-party elections. Following the recommendations of the IMF and the World Bank, the government has embarked on a course of austerity. In October 1994, the former ruling party MLSTP, the SDP, won the parliamentary elections. The 1996 presidential elections were held in two rounds, as a result of which M. Trovoada was re-elected for a second term (52.74% of the vote). In 1997-1998, demonstrations and strikes of civil servants took place in the capital, dissatisfied with arrears in wage payments and a 140% increase in fuel prices. In the presidential elections on July 29, 2001, out of five candidates, the candidate from the Independent Democratic Action (IDD) party, 59-year-old businessman Fradique Bandeira Melu de Menezes, won (56.3% of the vote). After the parliamentary elections on March 3, 2002, the National Assembly of the MLSTP-SDP is represented by 24 deputies, the Party of Democratic Unity - the Reflection Group (PDK-GR) - 23, and the Ue-Kedadzhi coalition (block of five parties) - 8.

Sao Tome and Principe in the 21st century

In the March 2006 parliamentary elections, the coalition of the Party of Democratic Unity - the Reflection Group and the Democratic Movement of Forces for Change managed to hold its ground (23 seats). The Movement for the Liberation of Sao Tome and the Social Democratic Party of Principe won 20 seats and the Independent Democratic Action 11. The We Kedaji coalition did not receive enough popular support to take seats in parliament.

In July 2003, an attempted military coup was thwarted.

In the summer of 2006, F. Menezes again took the presidency, having received 60.58% of the vote in the elections.

His main rival Miguel Trovoada of the Principe Social Democratic Party's Movement for the Liberation of Sao Tome received 38.82% of the vote.

In July 2011, Manuel Pinto da Costa took part in the presidential elections for the second time. He ran as an independent candidate and won the largest number of votes in the first round, but failed to win the required majority. In the second round on August 7, he defeated the representative of the ruling party, E. Santo Carvalho.

During the election campaign, Manuel Pinto da Costa focused on the need for political stability and promised to address widespread corruption in the country.

Lyubov Prokopenko

Greener and more untouched by human intervention than even nearby Cape Verde, Sao Tome and Principe islands also safer and more beautiful than most countries on the African continent. The nature of the islands, with the exception of extensive cocoa plantations, has retained the same appearance as before the arrival of man, and the colorful volcanic landscape with an abundance of rocky cliffs and picturesque capes, going into the azure waters of the ocean, resembles blessed canaries or exotic Seychelles. Here, without undue stress from the "hordes" of organized tourists, you can get acquainted with the original culture, which is a "hot" combination of Creole, African and Portuguese roots with a light Latin style and rhythm of life. Snorkeling near pristine shores or climbing ancient, and therefore low, volcanoes or observing the amazing life of birds that are not found anywhere else in the world - the best pastime on this tiny patch of land in the Atlantic Ocean. Lush jungles, clear waters and incredibly natural in its combination with local landscapes colonial architecture of the Portuguese style, make the rest here a real rest for the soul and body, and some underdevelopment of the tourist service only gives the rest a certain advantage and is completely easy due to low prices. North Sao Tome very beautiful and full of strange charm of extinct volcanoes, which resemble huge pillars, some of which exceed 600 m, as if "growing" right out of the jungle. The coasts are lined with white sandy shores and have beautiful and clear waters.

Sao Tome is a picturesque small town on the northeast coast of the main island. Lying along the shores of the bay, this city is full of Portuguese colonial buildings and beautifully manicured parks and gardens. The city center is small enough to get around on foot in a couple of hours. Must visit local Cathedral 16th century and National Museum in 400 years Forte San Sebastian on the peninsula 1.2 km. from the city center. You must also not miss Agostinho Neto Estate, with more than 30 colonial-style rooms that carry both the aura of colonial times and the revolutionary spirit of the first president of Angola. old quarter Santo Antonio is a charming place for hiking, and showcases part of the history of the island, captured in the form of buildings and narrow shady streets. To the north of the city lie stunningly beautiful landscapes, but unfortunately there are few beaches suitable for swimming. Civilization seems to dry up around the northern part of the island, where magnificent baobabs grow among picturesque rolling hills and tiny rock masses. Poetically named Praia das Sete Ondes (Seven Waves Beach) 12 km. south of the city - one of the best places for sunbathing and swimming on the island.

Breathtakingly beautiful hole in the rock mass Boca de Inferno ("Mouth of Hell") near the beach is one of the most popular local attractions. You can also make excursions to the many coffee and cocoa plantations near the city, which the locals are very proud of and sincerely claim that they grow the best coffee in the world. Trinidad on the island Sao Tome is also a very pleasant city. Here you can visit the waterfall Cascades San Nicolaus close to the city or use Trinidad as a starting point for hiking around the island. The route to the extinct volcano is especially attractive. Pico de Sao Tome(2024 m.), the highest point on the island, from the top of which a completely amazing view opens up. principe- a very small island. Since visitors are rare on the island, you will attract a lot of attention from the locals, so everyone's adoration and indulgence of the tourist's whims will be guaranteed.

San Antonio- the capital of the island, with colonial architecture similar to Sao Tome, only more modest, and the very size of the buildings here seem to be some kind of toy. This town itself is the size of a large European village, and therefore all the hotels that are here are somewhat reminiscent of village guesthouses, which gives San Antonio a very patriarchal and cozy look. There are no special attractions in the vicinity of the city, but the very nature of this place, almost absolute silence (except for the sounds of the mighty "breathing" of the ocean) and peace, are conducive to a leisurely and unhurried pastime on the beach or in the shade of palm groves, as well as to diving, which, although not provided with a high level of service, are attractive due to the unique underwater world of these places.

I'll start from afar. In 2009, before a trip to Mexico, I purchased a guide to this country from Konstantin Gensha (writer's pseudonym). The guide was not quite ordinary, in some places, one might say, hooligan. Helpful on the road. Which is why I loved it. Upon returning to his homeland, he paid attention to other guidebooks of the author and slowly bought them up. The most interesting for me was the guide to Central Africa from Gensha. I have read it cover to cover, more than once. The countries of the region were one more dangerous than the other (CAR, DRC, Angola). But among this "dense forest" I singled out one "pearl" - the island state of Sao Tome and Principe. It was the safest, quite exotic and inexpensive. As a result, my dream to get (and check everything on the spot) came true in August 2013.

Square in front of the administration building in Sao António, Principe Island

Now for flights: if you have a Schengen visa, it's easier to fly through Lisbon. In addition to the Portuguese TAP (http://www.flytap.com/), the San Tomi company STP (http://www.stpairways.st/) offers favorable prices - 598 € 2 way (I don’t know if all taxes are included in this ). A small plane from STP flies from Sao Tome to Principe: and tickets are bought through the site!

At the same time, we flew in a different way:
1) We bought tickets for Moscow-Casablanca-Praia (round trip) for 579 € from Moroccan Airlines (http://www.royalairmaroc.com/).
2) Then from Praia (capital of Cape Verde) flew Angolan Airlines (http://www.taag.com) to Sao Tome for 300€ (round trip). Aircraft from 2 airlines in excellent condition. There were no delays. Additionally, we got acquainted with the island of Santiago in Cape Verde. A visa is issued at the airport upon arrival for 25 €. Cape Verde also enjoyed it very much. It's more European. But the pearl of the whole trip was undoubtedly Principe - there are very few such corners on our planet! When buying tickets Praia Sao Tome had problems when buying through the airline's website, eventually bought through the aggregator site http://www.onetwotrip.com

Upon arrival at Sao Tome airport, we were presented with an entry permit sent to us by the migration service and a yellow fever vaccination certificate. No other measures were taken to combat tropical diseases. They took repellents with them, fearing mosquitoes, carriers of malaria. But as it turned out, the risk of contracting malaria from Sao Tome is minimal. We were told about this by Dr. Jose Prazeresh, who received his medical education back in the Soviet Union and spoke excellent Russian. All patients with malaria underwent a full course of treatment at the expense of the state. Plus, visitors are monitored to see if they are sick with malaria. Mosquitoes are only carriers of the disease, in the absence of patients they have nothing to endure. The only danger that I encountered on the trip was that I was bitten by a sand flea on the heel, because I walked everywhere in shales on my bare feet. To prevent such a bite, you need to use socks.
In terms of accommodation, we spent the night in three places:
1) In Sao Tome (capital) at Casa Turistica Elitineide in rooms for 30 and 35 €. Simple yet comfortable accommodation next to the soulful Papa Figo pizzeria.
2) On Principe in Sao Antonio (the capital of the island) at Residencial Palhota for 55-60 €. Accommodation is basic but another alternative is the costly Bom-Bom for 210€.
3) In the south of Sao Tome, they lived in Jalé Ecolodge for 50€. Excellent eco-lodges, I recommend. In addition to your own beach and a walk through the forests, you can take a boat to Rolash Island, through which the equator passes!
Useful link with a list of available accommodation: http://www.saotomeprincipe.eu/stp_info/stp_hotels.htm

Before the trip, we learned Portuguese. Both my wife and I speak basic Spanish, it was interesting to figure out how Portuguese differs from Spanish. We also listened to ten audio lessons from Pimsleur and bought a small grammar book. As a result, we were able to communicate with the locals in Portuguese, sometimes inserting some Spanish or English words. Few understood English. But... we met two Santomians (a doctor and an engineer) and two Angolese (pilots) who studied in the Soviet Union and speak Russian quite well!

And now a few photos to explain what we liked so much about this small island nation:

1. Sleepy streets of the capital at noon:

2. Embankment of the Gulf of Guinea:

3. The building of the former railway station, earlier a narrow gauge railway was laid from here, allowing you to transport goods around the island:

4. Now in the former station building - an art cafe:

5. One of the evenings I was lucky enough to get to a local concert. The girl in the photo sincerely sang the songs of Caesarea Evora:

6. Sao Tome Cathedral:

7. On the embankment of the capital:

8. Center of the capital. Sao Tome was our transit base on a trip around the country, we stayed here three times:

9. Streets of the capital. The sidewalks are falling apart.

10. Gas station in the center of the capital:

11. Old Yellow Taxi:

12. Central market of the country:

13. Freshly Caught Fish:

14. Local vegetables and fruits:

15. After a day in Sao Tome, we board a propeller plane and fly to Principe:

16. Farewell look at Sao Tome:

17. We fly up to Principe. In the photo, the expensive Bom Bom resort for 210 €:

18. Immediately upon arrival in Principe, a colorful view opens up:

19. Sao António - the capital of Principe:

20. Curious girls in San Antonio, Principe Island. They mistook us for the Portuguese because of the color of our skin, they were not even embarrassed by our lack of knowledge of the language:

21. Small Fashion Boutique:

22. People in Principe live in a simple but sincere way:

23. Children in Porto Royal, Principe:

24. Banana Beach, the most famous beach in Principe:

25: Our friend Wonderlei. Was our self-proclaimed guide. He is holding a postcard brought from distant Siberia:

26. Wild forests and beaches of the island of Principe. Great place for ecotourism. We studied on foot. But we were willingly driven by local drivers, we met many good people ...

27. Typical dwelling, Principe:

28. Another house, Principe:

29. Happy wife: These coconuts were given to us by a local farmer. It's like reading our minds! The water ran out and I was very thirsty ...

30. African children grow up quickly, the girl herself is 5-6 years old at the most, and her sister is already behind her:

31. Children on Principe are very friendly, however, like adults:

32. Our "restaurant" in Principe. Temporarily put together structures for a city holiday. Dinner for two cost 5€ and included seafood (fish, octopus), vegetables, local beer or Portuguese wine. What a delicious meal!

33. Hardware store in Principe with everything you need:

34. And a little south of the island of Sao Tome:

35. Old boat near Porto Alegre:

36. Sale of vegetables in the villages:

37. Sao Tome Peak seen on the way:

38. Also on the way to the south we saw many picturesque bays:

39. Jalé Ecolodge area. Our comfortable haven for three nights:

40. Papaya and carambola grew in our garden. We collected the fallen, diversifying our diet:

41. For one day we sailed to the island of Rolash, through which the Equator line passes:

42. Beautiful Rolash Beaches:

43. Island on the horizon - Sao Tome:

44. A memorial place in honor of the Equator line:

45. Another view of Sao Tome from Rolash:

46. ​​Rolas is home to the all-inclusive Pestana Equador Rôlas Island Resort:

47. Well-groomed territory of the hotel:

48. Deserted beaches of Sao Tome. Great opportunity to buy nude:

49. On the last day of my stay in Sao Tome, I also had a chance to go to the Hope festival. Upon learning that we had come from Russia, we were invited to the concert for free. We listened and watched the main creative teams of the country:

Beautiful state - Sao Tom and Principe. We remember him with pleasure... long Siberian evenings!

Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe ( San Tome and Principe listen)) is an island state in Central Africa ( Central Africa). Located in the Gulf of Guinea Guinea Gulf). Consists of the Sao Tome Islands ( San Tome Island), Principe ( Principe Island) and a series of small islands. The capital of the island nation is Sao Tome ( San Tome).

The climate of the island republic is equatorial maritime. The average temperature during the year is +23 °C-+26 °C. The best time to visit the islands is from June to September. This period is relatively dry and is characterized by comfortable air temperature and humidity.

The official language of Sao Tome and Principe is Portuguese. Most of the population speaks Low Guinean Creole as a spoken language. About 80% of the population of Sao Tome and Principe are Catholics. The rest of the believers profess Protestantism or remain adherents of local authentic island beliefs.

Tourists will have a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the pristine island nature and spend their holidays on the beach of Sao Tome and Principe ( San Tome and Principe Beach), untouched by civilization. Fans of active entertainment can frolic in the waters of the Atlantic Ocean ( atlantic ocean), climb mountain routes, go hiking to an extinct volcano and go fishing.

For a variety of impressions, guests of the islands can visit the capital of Sao Tome, where monuments of colonial architecture from the time of Portuguese rule on the islands have been preserved. Vacationers are waiting for exciting excursions to the botanical gardens ( San Tome Botanical Gardens), where travelers can see rainforests.

How to get there

There are no direct flights between the islands of Sao Tome and Principe, the CIS countries and most European countries.

Airplane

TAP Portugal- the only European airline that operates flights to Sao Tome and Principe from Lisbon ( Lisbon).

Passenger liners regularly run from Angola: from Luanda airport ( Luanda) and Gabon ( Gabon).

ferry service

On a trip to the islands of Sao Tome and Principe, you can go with the help. Ferry crossing from the port of Libreville.

Visa

Citizens of the CIS and EU countries need a visa to travel to the islands.

You can get a visa at the consulate, at the border or using the website of the Migration Service ( San Tome and Principe Management Migration Service).

There is no representative office of Sao Tome and Principe in Russia and other CIS countries. The nearest representative office is located in Brussels, so for travelers from the CIS, the best way to apply for a visa is to fill out a form on the website of the Migration Service of the Islands ( Migration Service Islands).

The application for a visa is considered for 7 days, after which the applicant receives an e-mail informing him of the result of the consideration of his application. With a positive decision, tourists planning a trip receive a barcode and an individual number. Their confirmation is printed out and presented during passport control at the Sao Tome and Principe border.

The visa is issued for a period of 1 month.

Customs

According to the current customs legislation of the island republic, when entering the territory of Sao Tome and Principe, tourists must pay an entry tax.

• 20 USD per adult;
• 10 USD for each child up to 12 years old;
• children under 2 years of age are exempt from entry tax.

On the territory of the islands there are no restrictions on the import and export of any currencies (foreign or local) across the border.

Without paying a fee, travelers can take on a trip:

• alcohol and tobacco products;
• food for personal use;
• perfumery;
• personal items;
• Video, audio and photo equipment at the rate of 1 item per adult travel companion.

For the import or export of jewelry, as well as the skins of wild animals, you must obtain a special permit.

Kitchen

The national cuisine of Sao Tome and Principe, of course, can be considered a good reason to travel to the islands for the sake of gastronomic tourism.

The local cuisine is an amazing mix of traditional dishes from Arab countries with local specific island dishes, which are based on fish and seafood, breadfruit and baked bananas.

The most popular meat delicacy that vacationers can order will be Tanjiyu (beef marinated in lemon juice, hot spices and spices). Fans of meat dishes will be attracted by the unusual taste of Amadji meat porridge cooked with couscous and vegetables.

Fish and seafood for the islanders are rightfully considered the "kings" of the table. Tourists, along with fellow travelers, will try flying fish baked on coals, snails marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, coconut milk and fragrant spices. A variety of delicacies from crab meat, lobster, lobster and shellfish will delight gourmets.

Own alcoholic drinks on the islands of Sao Tome and Principe do not produce. In restaurants and the hotel zone, guests of the republic can order European wine, Scotch whiskey, fine brandy and other spirits.

Sao Tome and Principe is jokingly called the chocolate country for the vast cocoa plantations scattered throughout the islands. A chocolate paradise awaits those with a sweet tooth: sweets, cakes, hard and hot chocolate.

Money

The monetary unit of the island republic of Sao Tome and Principe is dobro ( STD).

The National Bank of Sao Tome and Principe accepts notes (5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000 and 100,000 STD) as well as coins (100, 250, 500, 1,000, 2,000 STD).

Many hotels on the islands accept US dollars, euros and West African francs. However, tourists who arrived in Sao Tome and Principe for the sake of relaxation will be able to pay for lunch and purchases in stores only in local banknotes.

Foreigners can exchange any currency in hotels, banking institutions and exchange offices.

Traveler's checks can only be exchanged at Plaza Independence ( Plaza Independencia) V Banco International SAnTome & Principe. In order to avoid unnecessary additional costs associated with exchange rate costs, we recommend that all vacationers issue traveler's checks either in euros or in US dollars.

The network of ATMs is poorly developed on the territory of the island state.

There can be problems with bank cards on vacation: hotels and some restaurants accept Visa And mastercard.

What you need to know

Customs and Traditions of Sao Tome and Principe

The islanders are distinguished by a delicate and respectful attitude towards tourists. Despite the fact that the republic receives the main income from tourism, the islanders do not seek to lure money out of visitors.

Right on the street, travelers can meet dancers and singers performing fado folk songs. Fado is accompanied by tom-toms and island guitars.

Attractions Sao Tome and Principe

Undoubtedly, the main wealth of the country is the amazing nature and amazing landscapes.

• Going on a trip to the islands, tourists should definitely visit Neto ( Agostinho Neto) is the largest cocoa plantation on the islands. Guests of Sao Tome and Principe can also visit the plantations Agua Ice, Monte Cafe And Ribeira Peixe.
• Tourists will not be indifferent to the trip to the stunning waterfalls of Sao Tome Island. "Mouth of Hell" ( Hell’ s Mouth) is an amazingly beautiful waterfall erupting into the sea. Not far from Pousada Boa Vista vacationers will be able to take pictures of the waterfall "Casada" ( Cascada San Nicholas waterfall), and on the south side of Sao Tome there is a waterfall Turtledove Island.
• On the island of Bom-Bom ( Bom Bom Isla) off the northern coast of Principe Island, vacationers can enjoy deep sea fishing.
• Snorkeling, snorkelling, diving, as well as magnificent beaches with white and black sand will offer travelers and their fellow travelers Laguna Azula ( Lagoa Azul) or "Blue Lagoon" ( blue lagoon) Sao Tome Islands. And in the period from July to October, everyone can watch humpback whales migrating into the waters of Sao Tome and Principe.
• Fans of extreme tourism can climb the fascinating mountain routes of Pico de Principe ( Pico de Principe) and Pico de Sao Tome ( Pico de San Tome).
• During your holidays on the islands, we recommend visiting the ancient fishing town of Sao José dos Angolares ( San Joze dos Angolares) and the fortress of San Sebastian ( San Sebastiao Fortress), whose fortified walls today house the San Sebastian Museum ( San SebastiaoMuseum) with a magnificent display of colonial and religious art.
• Praia das Sete Ondes beach ( Praia das Sete- Ondes beach) near the rock Boca de Inferno ( Boca de Inferno Rock) will amaze guests of the islands with its pristine beauty.

Souvenirs of Sao Tome and Principe

In memory of the vacation spent on the islands of Sao Tome and Principe, tourists can bring magnets with the image of the national flag or the coat of arms of the republic.

Often, miniature sculptures carved from wood, masks, caskets and even statues of idols are brought from the trip.

From the capital of Sao Tome, guests of the islands bring beautiful gift commemorative stamps.

Sao Tome and Principe are two islands in the heart of the Atlantic. This is a real kingdom of nature: pristine beaches, exotic animals and birds, jungles and extinct volcanoes. But there is no entertainment ... you don’t look for them. Beach holidays and diving - all about Sao Tome and Principe.

• Tours for the New Year Worldwide
• Hot tours Worldwide

Details about when is the best time to come here and what to do on the spot are described on the tours page in Sao Tome and Principe.

Time difference with Moscow

− 3 hours

• with Kaliningrad

• with Samara

• with Yekaterinburg

• with Omsk

• with Krasnoyarsk

• with Irkutsk

• with Yakutsk

• with Vladivostok

• with Severo-Kurilsk

• with Kamchatka

How to get to Sao Tome and Principe

The flight to the islands is carried out with two transfers. The most convenient option is on the boards of TAP Portugal, which fly with connections in Lisbon.

Find flights to Sao Tome and Principe

Visa

To visit Sao Tome and Principe, citizens of Russia and the CIS require a visa, which can be obtained online.

Sao Tome and Principe does not have its own diplomatic representation in Russia. The representative functions of this state in our country are performed concurrently by the Russian Embassy in Angola.

Maps of Sao Tome and Principe

Entertainment and attractions Sao Tome and Principe

Attractions. There are many extinct volcanoes in North Sao Tome, some of them exceed 600 m. The coasts are framed by white sandy shores, the coastal waters are very clean and transparent.

One of the best local beaches is located 12 km south of the city. This is Praia das Sete Ondes ("Seven Waves Beach"). A hole in the Boca de Inferno (“Mouth of Hell”) rock mass close to the beach is one of the most popular local attractions.

Trinidad is a small town on the island of Sao Tome, which is often used as a starting point for hiking trails around the island. The most interesting among them is the route to the extinct volcano Pico de Sao Tome (2024 m). Not far from the city you can have a beautiful Cascades-San Nicolaus waterfall.

Principe is a very small island, there are very few tourists here. There are no special attractions here, the main local values ​​​​are spectacular nature, almost absolute silence and a unique underwater world.