Where to Stay in São Tomé

Beautiful rooms at Pestana São Tomé Ocean Resort

I recently visited the small country of São Tomé og Príncipe for 10 days. The former Portugese colony recently changed their visa policy and it is now possible to get a visa on arrival for EU-passports. I stayed at Bom Bom Island Resort and Roca Belo Monte on my three-night visit to Principe, while I stayed at all the above on, except Pousada Roça São João which I only visited for a few hours.

Pestana São Tomé Ocean Resort
The only 5-star hotel on the island and also the winner of my test. Comfortable rooms comparable to a Hilton hotel with a good Wi-Fi connection in the room and friendly service in all areas of the hotel. 5-star facilities and good food for both breakfast and dinner make it the best place to stay on the island of São Tomé.

Swimming pool at Omali Lodge

Omali Lodge São Tomé
Beautiful 4-star hotel located cloes to the airport and with good service from English-speaking staff. The rooms are not up to Pestana's standards but are comfortable. The Wi-Fi didn't work in my room but is fast at the reception area. The second best hotel on the island in my opinion.
Club Santana Beach Resort São Tomé
4-star resort located 20 minutes from the town of São Tomé. Rooms, service and food are not up to Pestana's standards, but it has a beautiful beach as the selling point. Only a few staff speaks English.
Miramar by Pestana São Tomé
The best mid-range option. 3-stars and professional run by Pestana. Comfortable rooms that are similar to a Holiday Inn with air conditioning and mosquito nets. The staff are friendly, and the food is excellent for São Tomé. My vegetarian pizza was the best meal I had in São Tomé.
Sweet Guest House
The best value in São Tomé. Located in Vila Dolores, this small guest house has beautiful small rooms with mosquito nets, air conditioning and good free Wi-Fi. You don't have the services of a hotel, but it is an exceptional value if you only need a comfortable room.
Pousada Roça São João
A traditional basic 2.5-star guesthouse located in the south of the island in beautiful surroundings. Unfortunately, no Wi-FI and air conditioning.
Tradicional Guest House
The cheapest place on the list. This traditional local house is good value for money and ideal for complete privacy. Located close to the airport. No Wi-Fi and air conditioning.