When is the best time to travel to São Tomé and Príncipe?
When is the best time to travel to São Tomé and Príncipe?
In São Tomé and Príncipe, temperatures range between 21°C and 30°C all year round. This African archipelago offers two distinct sides: a dry season with overcast skies and a rainy season when you are more likely to see sunny days and beaches. Choosing the best time to travel to São Tomé and Príncipe will depend on your availability, as the climate is always warm and pleasant. However, here we tell you how to make the most of each season, with key activities and tips to ensure that the weather in São Tomé and Príncipe works in your favour.
The best climate in São Tomé and Príncipe: two seasons, two worlds
Dry season (Gravana): June to September
During these months, the climate becomes spring-like. Rainfall is scarce, humidity decreases and the sun reigns supreme. It is the ideal time for tours and excursions in São Tomé and Príncipe:
Trails and waterfalls: routes such as Pico Cão Grande or the São Nicolau waterfall are accessible without mud. Our local guides organise flora and fauna excursions at sunrise, so you can appreciate nature in all its splendour.
Outdoor culture: visit the cocoa plantations in Roças such as Diogo Vaz, where the dry climate allows you to walk among historic drying houses and taste handmade chocolate.
If you are looking for the best time to travel to São Tomé and Príncipe in terms of comfort, now is the time. Just remember to bring a light jacket for the evenings, as the temperature can drop to 21°C in some areas.
Rainy season: October to May
The weather in São Tomé and Príncipe here is a rollercoaster of short showers and bursts of sunshine. Humidity increases, but the reward is an abundance of nature:
Sea turtles: from October to March, beaches such as Praia Jalé become a natural night-time spectacle.
Pure jungle: the rains feed waterfalls such as Rio Abade, where quad bike trails become adventures through puddles and lush vegetation.
Indoor culture: São Tomé’s museums, such as the National Museum and the Cocoa Museum, are ideal refuges on cloudy days. Combine them with cultural tours of local communities, where the rain enhances the colours of this beautiful country.
When to travel to São Tomé and Príncipe? Key activities by season
For sun and sea lovers
Best time: June to September.
Top activities:
Boat trips: sailing from the coast of São Tomé and Príncipe allows you to explore some of the most impressive and remote landscapes of the archipelago.
Diving: crystal clear waters with visibility of 30 metres. Privilege Tours includes dives for all levels, with certified instructors to guide you underwater.
For adventurers and naturalists
Best time: October to May.
Unique experiences:
Trekking in the rain: equipped with waterproof boots and raincoats, explore Ôbo National Park, a unique experience immersing you in the unspoilt nature of the archipelago.
Whale watching: from July to October, the waters near Príncipe Island are visited by humpback whales, an unforgettable experience.
Clothing for the climate: what you can’t forget
Essentials for both seasons
Technical clothing for excursions: quick-drying T-shirts and lightweight trousers.
Cotton clothing: due to the humidity, comfortable cotton clothing is recommended for the rest of the day. We recommend that you wear long trousers in the evening to avoid mosquito bites.
Versatile footwear: sandals for the beach + hiking boots with non-slip soles.
Sun protection: hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. The equatorial sun burns even on cloudy days.
Hydration kit: thermos flask for cold water. Always remember to drink bottled water and avoid natural juices in local shops that are not reliable establishments with refrigeration.
Rainy season
Rain gear: compact raincoat, backpack for excursions, waterproof covers for electronic devices for rain or boat trips.
Mosquito repellent: We always recommend Forte brand repellents. Don’t let mosquitoes spoil your experience on the island.
Frequently asked questions
1. Is it dangerous to travel during the rainy season?
No, but check the roads: some rural areas can become impassable. If you are caught in a storm on the way to your destination, try to find a safe place to wait until it passes. It is not advisable to travel during storms as the strong winds can sometimes blow off corrugated iron roofs and even poles. Privilege Tours offers transfers with expert drivers and car hire if you feel safer.
2. Are there jellyfish on the beaches during the dry season?
Rarely. The waters are calm and safe for swimming.
3. Can you combine beach and culture in the same trip?
Yes. For example, mornings at Praia Micondó (south) and afternoons at Roça Bombaim, a plantation converted into a museum.
4. Are there hurricanes or cyclones?
No. The archipelago is outside the cyclone routes. The rains are intense, with strong winds but never hurricane force. And they usually only last a few hours.
Your Trip, Your Climate
Understanding the climate in São Tomé and Príncipe is the key to authentic experiences. Do you prefer sunny days to conquer pristine beaches, or are you attracted by the intensity of a rainforest washed by the rain? Whatever your choice, Privilege Tours designs itineraries that adapt to the weather in São Tomé and Príncipe, guaranteeing safety and authenticity.
Remember: the islands don’t have ‘bad weather’, just different opportunities. In June, the sun awaits you with a caipirinha in your hand; in November, the rain invites you to adventure. Ready to choose your trip?
