Things To Do
in Neves
Neves sits on the western coast of São Tomé Island, blending fishing tradition with colorful local life. The town is set against lush green hills and sapphire seas, offering a laid-back island vibe. Cocoa and spice farms nearby echo the island's plantation history.
Visiting Neves provides a gateway to pristine beaches, volcanic landscapes, and warm, welcoming communities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the São Tomé International Airport and transfer to your hotel. After checking in, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a nearby café, savoring fresh tropical fruits and local pastries. Spend some time relaxing or taking a short stroll along the picturesque coastline.
Explore the bustling streets of São Tomé, visiting the local markets filled with vibrant colors and scents. Discover the rich history at the São Tomé Museum, unveiling the island's colonial past. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant to indulge in traditional dishes like calulu or fish stew.
Wind down with dinner at a seaside restaurant, where you can taste delicious grilled seafood while watching the sunset. Take a leisurely evening walk along the beach, enjoying the gentle ocean breeze. Finish your day with a nightcap at a cozy bar in the heart of the city.
Embark on a trip to Roça São João, a historic plantation that showcases the island's cocoa production. Enjoy a guided tour showcasing the cocoa-making process from bean to bar. Experience the lush surroundings and learn about the impact of cocoa farming in local culture.
Savor a traditional lunch at the plantation, surrounded by the aroma of fresh cocoa and local ingredients. Participate in workshops to craft your own chocolate bars with guidance from local artisans. Spend time exploring the grounds, taking in the vibrant greenery and historic architecture.
Return to São Tomé and enjoy dinner at a restaurant featuring a menu that emphasizes local ingredients. Afterward, join a music-filled outdoor gathering where you can enjoy local sounds and rhythms. Relax back at your hotel, reflecting on the day’s experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🍽️Mid-range dinner for two | $20-40 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-100 |
| 🚕Taxi short ride | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm coastal town with authentic culture
- Access to beaches and nature without crowds
- Limited nightlife and dining options
- Remote from major attractions and occasional travel delays
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Onde fica o mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "Eu não falo bem Português" - I don't speak Portuguese well
- "Pode me levar ao hotel?" - Can you take me to the hotel?
- "Adeus" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Neves
Visit one of these nice places.
Dawn scenes of colorful boats and silhouettes against the sea; excellent long-exposure opportunities.
Dramatic ocean views from coastal cliffs, ideal for sunsets and sweeping panorama shots.
Food in Neves
Neves Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional seafood or chicken stew with palm oil, okra, and vegetables, usually served with cassava or rice.
Must-Try!
Grilled fish with a bright, zesty sauce and sides of rice or plantains.
Seafood simmered in coconut milk with peppers and herbs for a creamy, tropical flavor.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A hub for fresh fish, tropical fruits, and vegetables; street stalls offer grilled seafood and fried plantains.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly hello; address people with politeness and show respect; a handshake is common.
Ask permission before photographing people or spaces; avoid sensitive sites or private properties without consent.
Safety
Tipping in Neves
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; 5-10% in restaurants if service is good; round up taxi fares.
Cash in dobra or euros is widely accepted; some businesses in towns take cards; ATMs are primarily in the capital.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mostly sunny days with low rainfall and pleasant sea breezes; great for beaches, hiking in the early hours.
Frequent showers and high humidity; lush green landscapes and rushing waterfalls; carry a compact rain jacket and protect gear.
Neves at Night
Hiking in Neves
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic rock spire near central highlands; challenging hike with rewarding views.
Gentle trails through historic cocoa farms with scenic landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Neves by plane.
Main gateway to São Tomé Island; taxi or transfer to Neves takes about 1-1.5 hours by road.
Airport on Príncipe Island; limited international connections via Lisbon and regional flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mix of Afro-Portuguese heritage; communities from different islands and mainland Africa; Catholic traditions are common.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local matches are common and informal games occur in towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Neves.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Rely on plantains, cassava, beans, rice, and vegetables; request vegetable stews without fish stock or palm oil if needed.