Santana do Matola - Discovering Sao Tome and Principe

Travelling to Santana do Matola

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Santana do Matola, a pretty good destination in Sao Tome and Principe (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Santana do Matola and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Santana do Matola, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Sao Tome and Principe, here's everything to know about Santana do Matola for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Santana do Matola

Santana do Matola is a small village located in the southern part of the Island of São Tomé, which is one of the two main islands of São Tomé and Príncipe. The village is known for its natural beauty, with lush vegetation, rivers, and waterfalls, making it a popular destination for ecotourism. It is also home to several historical landmarks, such as a 16th-century chapel and ruins of a colonial-era sugar plantation. The village is located about 20 km from the capital city of São Tomé and can be easily accessed by car or public transportation. The local population mainly engages in agriculture, with cocoa and coffee being significant crops.

What to visit in Santana do Matola

Santana do Matola is a small town in Sao Tome and Principe. Though it may not be as popular as some other tourist destinations on the island, there are still a variety of attractions and activities to enjoy in and around the town. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Santana do Matola: 1. Roca Agostinho Neto: This is a historic plantation house that was once owned by the first president of Angola, Agostinho Neto. It's a great place to learn about the history of the island and see local architecture up close. You can also tour the beautiful gardens and enjoy the view of the surrounding countryside.
2. Praia Inhame: This is a beautiful and peaceful beach that's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The water is crystal clear, and there are plenty of shady spots to escape the sun. There's also a small restaurant nearby where you can get refreshing drinks and snacks.
3. Hiking Trails: There are a few great hiking trails in the area that offer beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and countryside. You can take a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike through dense jungle and past waterfalls.
4. Santuário de Nossa Senhora de Fátima: This is a beautiful hilltop church that offers stunning views of the surrounding area. It's a popular spot for weddings and other special events, and it's open to visitors year-round.
5. Diving and Snorkeling: The waters around Santana do Matola are home to an abundance of marine life, making it a great spot for diving and snorkeling. You can rent snorkel gear and take a guided tour to explore the reefs and see colorful fish and coral up close.
Overall, Santana do Matola is a great place to visit if you're looking for a more relaxed and peaceful experience in Sao Tome and Principe. Whether you want to explore local history and culture or just enjoy the natural beauty of the island, there's something for everyone in this charming little town.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Sao Tome and Principe, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Santana do Matola.

When to go on holiday to Santana do Matola

The best time to visit Santana do Matola in Sao Tome and Principe is during the dry season, which lasts from June to September. During this time, the weather is sunny and there is little rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and beach activities.
However, do note that the temperatures are consistently warm throughout the year, with an average high of 30°C (86°F) and an average low of 23°C (73°F). If you prefer less crowded conditions and cheaper rates, you might consider visiting during the shoulder season from December to February, when the weather is still warm but the tourist crowds are fewer.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Santana do Matola

To get to Santana do Matola in Sao Tome and Principe, you can take a flight to the capital city, Sao Tome. There are several airlines that operate flights to Sao Tome, including TAP Air Portugal, STP Airways, and TAAG Angola Airlines.
Once you arrive in Sao Tome, you can hire a taxi or rent a car to drive to Santana do Matola. The distance between the two locations is approximately 55 kilometers and the journey takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Alternatively, you can also take a public bus from Sao Tome to Santana do Matola. Buses depart regularly from the bus station in Sao Tome and the journey takes around 2 hours.
It's recommended that you check the latest visa and entry requirements for Sao Tome and Principe before you travel, as they can change at short notice.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Santana do Matola, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Santana do Matola

Santana do Matola is a small town in Sao Tome and Principe, located on the island of Sao Tome. The local cuisine is influenced by Portuguese and African flavors, with a focus on seafood. Here are some typical foods you'll find in Santana do Matola: 1. Calulu - a stew made with fish and vegetables such as okra and spinach, cooked in palm oil. It's typically served with rice or funge, which is a starchy side dish made from cassava flour.
2. Arroz de Marisco - seafood rice, made with a variety of shellfish, including shrimp, clams, and mussels. It's flavored with onions, tomatoes, and spices for a flavorful and hearty meal.
3. Feijao Frito - fried beans, which are a popular side dish in Sao Tome and Principe. The beans are cooked until tender, then fried with onions and garlic for a crispy and flavorful dish.
4. Cuscuz - a type of porridge made from cornmeal, coconut milk, and sugar. It's typically served for breakfast or as a dessert.
5. Molho Lamba - a spicy sauce made with chili peppers, onions, and garlic. It's often used as a condiment for grilled seafood or meat dishes, adding a kick of flavor to any meal.
Overall, the food in Santana do Matola is flavorful and delicious, with a focus on fresh seafood and local ingredients.
You can find general info about typical foods in Sao Tome and Principe here.

Is Santana do Matola an expensive destination for tourists?

Santana do Matola is a small village located on the island of São Tomé, which is a popular destination for tourists visiting São Tomé and Príncipe. In general, São Tomé and Príncipe is considered to be a relatively expensive destination for tourists due to its remote location and limited tourism infrastructure.
However, the cost of visiting Santana do Matola specifically will depend on a number of factors, such as accommodation, transportation, food and activities. If you are on a budget, it may be possible to find more affordable options for each of these, such as staying in a guesthouse or hostel, taking public transport, eating at local markets and exploring the village on foot.
Overall, it is best to do some research and compare prices before planning your trip to Santana do Matola, as well as considering your personal budget and travel preferences.

Where to find accomodation in Santana do Matola

Santana do Matola is a small village located in the northern part of the island of São Tomé. The closest town with more options for accommodation is Guadalupe, which is about 7 kilometers away. Some recommended areas to find accommodation in Guadalupe are: 1. Close to the beach: Guadalupe has some beautiful beaches, and staying close to the water can be a great option. Look for options near Praia das Conchas or Praia da Luz.
2. Town center: Guadalupe has a small town center, and staying here can give you easy access to local restaurants and shops.
3. Eco-lodges: since Guadalupe is surrounded by forest, there are some eco-lodges that provide a great opportunity to connect with nature. 4. Airbnb options: in addition to hotels, there are some nice Airbnb options in Guadalupe, ranging from budget-friendly stays to luxurious villas.
You can check hotel prices at Santana do Matola here:
Booking.com

Is Santana do Matola a safe destination for tourists?

Santana do Matola is generally considered a safe place for tourists to visit in Sao Tome and Principe. However, it's always important to take normal security precautions as you would do in any other destination. Petty theft and pickpocketing can be an issue in crowded areas, so it's important to keep a close eye on your belongings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Additionally, it's also a good idea to avoid walking alone at night and stick to well-lit areas. Overall, with common sense and caution, tourists can have a safe and enjoyable experience in Santana do Matola.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Sao Tome and Principe here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Santana do Matola.

What type of travelers will enjoy Santana do Matola the most?

Santana do Matola in Sao Tome and Principe is a beautiful destination that is suitable for all types of travelers, including couples, families, and young people. The area offers stunning natural scenery with beautiful palm-lined sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and lush tropical forests that are ideal for anyone looking to relax and enjoy a peaceful environment.
Couples can enjoy romantic walks along the pristine beaches and indulge in excellent local cuisine in one of the many restaurants.
Families can explore the diverse range of wildlife in the Obo National Park and enjoy hiking in the Pico Cao Grande Mountain.
Young people, on the other hand, can engage in a variety of watersports such as surfing, scuba diving, and snorkeling.
Overall, Santana do Matola offers a wide variety of activities and attractions that make it an ideal destination for all types of travelers.

How to get around Santana do Matola

In Santana do Matola, the most common transportation options are taxis and minibusses (known as "candongueiros"). Taxis are more expensive but offer more flexibility in terms of routes and destinations. Candongueiros follow a set route and are cheaper, but can be crowded and may not always run on time. It is also possible to rent a car or scooter, but the roads can be challenging and unpredictable. Walking is also an option for shorter distances.

What to see around Santana do Matola

Certainly, there are several places that can be explored on a day trip from Santana do Matola in Sao Tome and Principe. Here are some suggestions: 1. Roça Monte Café: Located about 18 km from Santana do Matola, this historic coffee plantation offers an insight into the country's colonial past and is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery.
2. São Miguel Waterfall: This impressive waterfall is situated about 30km from Santana do Matola and it’s one of the tallest in the archipelago, measuring over 30 meters high. It’s surrounded by dense jungle, making it a picturesque spot to visit.
3. Lagoa Azul: This beautiful lagoon is located about 20km from Santana do Matola. It is a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and diving as it has crystal clear waters that are teeming with marine life.
4. Praia Jalé: This is a stunning beach located about 40 km from Santana do Matola. Here you can relax and unwind or indulge in adventurous activities such as surfing or hiking along the coastal cliffs.
5. Pico Cão Grande: This is an iconic rock formation that is located about 40 km from Santana do Matola. It is popular among hikers and climbers due to its challenging trails and stunning views. However, a guide might be needed before hiking this majestic peak. Keep in mind that traveling around the island, especially non-surfaced roads, can be challenging, so plan your day trip well in advance to ensure that you have enough time to explore and enjoy these destinations.
For every travel information about Sao Tome and Principe you can click here.

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