Geography

Transportation on the island of São Tomé

Although of reduced size, our archipelago seems bigger because of the distinct microclimates. When it comes to transportation, the state of the roads make the 80 km from Sao Tomé city in the North to Portalegre in the South a day journey. 

Taxis depart from the city center; however, the fares charged are speculative. Additionally, they only begin the journey once the vehicle is fully occupied. It is important to note that many of these vehicles operate under very poor safety conditions and, in most cases, do not have insurance.

There are few taxis at the airport, so it is recommended to book transfers to and from the airport in advance.
The best way to get around São Tomé and Príncipe is by renting a 4x4 vehicle, with or without a driver. It is important to note that few rental companies offer insurance for the vehicle.

If you arrive on the main island, to get from São Tomé to Príncipe Island, there are regular flights that take less than an hour.

Data from São Tomé and Príncipe

Geographic data

The archipelago of São Tomé and Príncipe is located approximately 300 km off the west coast of Africa, with geographic coordinates 1°00′ N, 7°00′ E. It has a total area of about 1,003 km².

The country is composed of three main islands:

• The island of São Tomé has an area of 860 km², which corresponds to 55 km in length and 35 km in width.

• The island of Príncipe (approximately 140 km²)

• The small islet of Rolas, with an area of approximately 3 km², is located to the south of São Tomé Island, exactly on the Equator line and near the Greenwich Meridian, giving it a unique and strategic geographical location."

The entire archipelago lies along the Cameroon Volcanic Line, and its terrain is volcanic and mountainous. The highest point is Pico de São Tomé, reaching an elevation of 2,024 metres.

In terms of time zone, São Tomé and Príncipe is one hour behind Continental European winter time. (same as summer time )

Communication and infrastructures

Communications

Mobile phones and the internet are the primary means of communication in the archipelago, with two active operators: Companhia Santomense de Telecomunicações (CST) and Unitel STP. Both offer 4G coverage throughout the archipelago.

Media

The country offers public radio and television services, as well as community radio stations. Key data includes:

• Radio broadcast stations: 5 

• Television broadcast stations: 2 

• National TV station: TVS (Televisão Santomense)

Infrastructure

Road Network

• Total road length: 320 km

  • Paved: 218 km

  • Unpaved: 102 km (estimated in 1996)

The public lighting in the area is generally reasonable, providing adequate visibility. However, some roads, particularly those in more remote or rugged areas, are only accessible by four-wheel drive (4WD) vehicles due to their rough terrain.

Maritime and Air Transport

• Main ports:

  • Port of São Tomé

  • Port of Santo António (on Príncipe Island)

• Airports:

  • 1 airport on São Tomé Island

  • 1 airport on Príncipe Island

Electric Power

• Standard voltage: 220 V