Skip to content
Few scams

Middle Africa

Tourist scams in São Tomé and Príncipe

São Tomé and Príncipe is generally described as safe, with public violent crime very rare. Crime against tourists has increased, and reports mention scams in São Tomé city and roadblocks near Santana. The reports do not explain the tricks used or how often they happen.
  1. 1 Other tricksOccasionalUnspecified scams targeting touristsScams targeting tourists have been reported in the capital. The methods are not described, so no particular trick or payment demand can be identified.São Tomé 2Read
  2. 2 Buses and trainsOccasionalReported roadblocks near SantanaRoadblocks have been reported near Santana. Their purpose is not explained. It is unclear whether they involved fraud, theft, payment demands or another type of obstruction.SantanaRead

Where to stay alert

  • São Tomé cityScams targeting tourists have been reported, but no specific streets, venues or methods are identified.
  • Roads near SantanaRoadblocks have been reported. Their nature and frequency are not described.

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • Agree on the total fare before getting in.
  • Check whether the price is per person or for the whole vehicle.
  • For a shorter shared-minivan trip, agree on the fare with the driver before departure.
  • Shared minivans can be overcrowded. Wait for another vehicle if the load feels unsafe.

Money

  • Plan to bring enough euros or US dollars for your trip.
  • Confirm the exchange rate and any fee before handing over cash.
  • Count the money you receive before leaving.
  • Pestana hotels may offer cash advances, subject to cash availability. Expect a 5% commission and an unfavourable exchange rate; this is a service cost, not a reported scam.

Cards and ATMs

  • Plan for overseas cards not to work at ATMs.
  • A Visa cash withdrawal may be available at the main bank in São Tomé, but do not rely on it as your only cash option.
  • Keep your card issuer's contact details available offline.
  • Turn on transaction alerts if your card issuer offers them.

Your belongings

  • Keep your phone, wallet and travel documents secure.
  • Carry only the cash you need for the day.
  • Store spare cash separately from your everyday wallet.
  • Keep a separate copy of your passport and important booking details.

Tours and guides

  • Agree on the route, duration and total price before hiring a driver or boat.
  • Ask what extra costs are excluded from the quoted price.
  • Keep a written record of the agreement and any deposit.

Police and officials

  • Stay calm at a roadblock and avoid arguments.
  • If it is safe, ask who is stopping you and why.
  • For any requested payment, ask for an explanation and an official receipt.
  • Do not physically resist if threatened.

What travellers say about São Tomé and Príncipe

Discussions on other sites, summarised in our words. Open a link to read the full thread.

Questions

Are tourist scams common in São Tomé and Príncipe?

The country is generally described as safe, but crime against tourists has increased. Scams are reported in São Tomé city. There is not enough detail to say they are common or identify a leading trick.

Where should I be more alert?

Reports mention tourist scams in São Tomé city and roadblocks near Santana. No particular market, hotel, airport or nightlife venue is identified as a scam hotspot.

What should I do at a roadblock near Santana?

Stay calm, avoid confrontation and do not force your way through. If threatened, put your safety first. The reports do not explain who operates these roadblocks or what they want.

Are taxis or shared minivans known for fare scams?

No specific fare scam is described. Agree on the price before departure and check whether it is per person or per vehicle. Shorter shared-minivan fares can be negotiated with the driver.

Can I rely on ATMs with a foreign card?

Plan for overseas cards not to work at ATMs. Bring enough euros or US dollars. A Visa withdrawal may be available at the main bank in São Tomé, but it should not be your only cash plan.

Is street money exchange described as a scam?

No. The exchange vendors outside Hotel Central are described as honest. Still, confirm the rate, check any fee and count your money before leaving.

Is a hotel cash advance fee a scam?

A fee alone does not mean fraud. Pestana hotels may offer cash advances with a 5% commission and an unfavourable exchange rate, subject to cash availability. Check the total cost first.

How should I arrange a driver, tour or boat?

Agree on the route, duration, full price and any extra costs before paying. Keep a written record. No specific tour or boat-booking scam is described.

What should I do if my wallet or passport is stolen?

Get somewhere safe, block missing cards and report the theft to the police. Keep evidence for your insurer. Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport is missing.

Is there a tourist-police number I can save?

No verified tourist-police or emergency number is provided here. Ask your accommodation for local reporting help, and save your bank, insurer and consular contacts before travelling.

Reviewed by