Things To Do
in Santana
Santana sits on the northeast coast of São Tomé Island, surrounded by lush hills and cacao plantations. The town acts as a gateway to the island’s rugged rainforests and pristine beaches, offering a quiet, authentic snapshot of island life. Its friendly locals, small markets, and rustic roças invite you to slow down and savor fresh seafood and tropical produce.
With dramatic landscapes, short hikes, and coastal charm, Santana pairs wild nature with a welcoming, low-key culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at São Tomé International Airport and take a scenic drive to Santana, enjoying the lush landscapes of São Tomé and Príncipe. Once settled in your accommodation, indulge in a hearty local breakfast featuring fruits and traditional dishes. Take a moment to explore the nearby beach, where the azure waves create a perfect backdrop for relaxation.
Spend your afternoon visiting the nearby plantation of cacao and coffee, where you can learn about the island's rich agricultural heritage. Participate in a guided tour and enjoy tastings of freshly brewed coffee and chocolate. Allow the aromatic scents and vibrant colors to stimulate your senses.
As the sun begins to set, head to a local restaurant for dinner, where you can immerse yourself in the flavors of São Tomé cuisine. Dine on fresh seafood and local dishes while listening to live music that captures the spirit of the island. Conclude your evening with a stroll along the beach, soaking in the tranquil sounds of the ocean.
Begin your day with breakfast at a local café before embarking on a coastal hike to explore hidden coves and breathtaking viewpoints. The morning sun casts a golden glow over the rocky cliffs and tranquil waters, making for perfect photo opportunities. Engage with friendly locals who share stories about their connection to the sea.
After a morning of adventure, enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach, surrounded by the stunning scenery of the Atlantic Ocean. Spend the afternoon swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, discovering an array of vibrant marine life. Alternatively, rent a kayak to explore the coastline at your own pace.
Return to Santana and refresh before heading out for dinner at a beachfront restaurant. Sample local fish specialties while enjoying the rhythmic sounds of waves crashing nearby. The evening allows for reflection on your day’s discoveries under a starlit sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $1-3 |
| 🍺Local beer | $1-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-50 |
| 🚌Local transportation (short ride) | $0.50-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace of life in a safe, friendly environment
- Abundant fresh seafood and tropical produce
- Limited direct flight options and infrastructure
- Some areas have limited mobile data and amenities
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does this cost?
- "Onde fica o sanitário?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Eu gostaria de..." - I would like to...
Places to Visit in Santana
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic church with simple colonial architecture and a vantage point over the town.
Dense rainforest around the Obô hills offering lush green backdrops and wildlife photography opportunities.
Golden sands and palm trees along the coast ideal for sunset photography.
Series of tropical waterfalls ideal for nature shots and long exposure.
Food in Santana
Santana Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled fresh fish served with fried plantains, a staple along the coast and widely available at seaside eateries.
Must-Try!
Fish stewed with palm oil, leafy greens, and peppers; found in local restaurants and roças.
Fish cooked in palm oil with onions and leafy greens; common on island menus.
Seafood rice featuring fish and shrimp; best tried at coastal restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh fish, tropical fruit, cassava, and plantains sold daily; great for sampling street foods.
Grilled fish skewers, cassava snacks, and fried plantains—perfect for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; a kiss on the cheek among friends; maintain polite tone.
Ask for permission when photographing people or homes; dress modestly in rural areas.
Light, breathable clothing; modest in religious sites; remove hat indoors.
Safety
Tipping in Santana
Ensure a smooth experience
Not always expected; round up at cafes or tip 5-10% at restaurants if service is not included.
Cash (Dobra/STD) is most widely accepted; some hotels and larger establishments may take cards, but carry cash for small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season with hot days; humidity remains high; less rain, good for hiking in the mornings.
Rainy season with frequent downpours; trails can be muddy; plan water-resistant gear and flexible plans.
Santana at Night
Hiking in Santana
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Diverse rainforest trails with potential wildlife sightings and scenic viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Santana by plane.
Main gateway to the country, located near the capital; access to Santana by road or domestic flight.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Afro-Portuguese descent and coastal communities; languages primarily Portuguese; strong fishing and cocoa heritage.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; amateur games and local clubs abound.
A traditional activity due to the island’s coastal location.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santana.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy fresh fruits, plantains, cassava, bean stews, and vegetable dishes; communicate needs in Portuguese.