Santana - Discovering Sao Tome and Principe

Travelling to Santana

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Santana, 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 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, 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 for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Santana

Santana is a small village located on the east coast of São Tomé Island, which is the largest island of the archipelago of São Tomé and Príncipe. The village is known for its beautiful black sand beaches and the nearby mountain Pico de São Tomé, which offers stunning views of the island. The village is also home to some traditional houses made of wood and straw, which are popular tourist attractions. The local population is mainly involved in fishing and agriculture, and visitors can experience the traditional way of life in the village.

What to visit in Santana

Here are some tourist attractions in Santana, Sao Tome and Principe: 1. Praia Afonso - This beautiful, secluded beach is perfect for those looking to relax and enjoy some sun, sand, and clear blue waters. Visitors can also hike to nearby Pico Moca for stunning views of the beach and surrounding landscape.
2. Cascata de São Nicolau - A breathtaking waterfall located in the middle of pristine jungle, this attraction is perfect for nature lovers and adventurers. Visitors can hike through the jungle to reach the waterfall and experience the beauty of the island's tropical forests.
3. Casa Museu Almada Negreiros - The Casa Museu Almada Negreiros is a museum dedicated to the life and works of the renowned Portuguese artist, José de Almada Negreiros. The museum is located in a historic house that once belonged to the artist, and features a variety of exhibits and collections related to his life and art.
4. Roça de Água Izé - A restored colonial-era plantation, Roça de Água Izé offers visitors a glimpse into the island's rich history and cultural heritage. Visitors can tour the plantation's fields and learn about the history of the island's agriculture and economy.
5. Parque Natural Obô de São Tomé - The Parque Natural Obô de São Tomé is a stunning nature reserve that covers over 30% of the island's land area. Visitors can explore the park's lush forests, hike through its network of trails, and spot a variety of endemic flora and fauna, including several rare and endangered species.
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.

When to go on holiday to Santana

The best time to visit Santana in Sao Tome and Principe is during the dry season, which runs from June to September. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, and there is less rainfall. The rainy season occurs from October to May, with peak rainfall usually occurring in March and April. However, it's worth noting that even during the rainy season, it's not uncommon for there to be long periods of sunshine. Ultimately, it depends on your preferences, as some travelers prefer to visit during the rainy season when the landscape is greener and there are fewer tourists.

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

How to get to Santana

To get to Santana in Sao Tome and Principe, you would need to first fly into the main international airport in Sao Tome, which is the Sao Tome International Airport (TMS). From there, you can take a taxi or a rented car to Santana, which is located on the northern coast of Sao Tome Island.
The drive from Sao Tome International Airport to Santana is approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and road conditions. Alternatively, you can also arrange for a private transfer or book a guided tour that includes transportation to Santana.
Please note that transportation options in Sao Tome and Principe can be limited, so it's important to plan ahead and make arrangements in advance to ensure a smooth travel experience.
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, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Santana

Santana is a district in São Tomé and Principe that is known for its delicious and unique cuisine. Here are some of the typical foods of Santana and a description of each: 1. Calulu - a stew made with dried and salted fish, vegetables, beans, and palm oil.
2. Moqueca de peixe - a fish stew made with coconut milk, vegetables, and spices.
3. Banana pão - a type of banana that is boiled and served as a side dish.
4. Arroz doce - a sweet rice pudding made with coconut milk and cinnamon.
5. Funge de banana - a dish made from mashed cooked plantains or bananas, often served with fish or meat.
6. Pão de ló - a sponge cake made with eggs and sugar, often flavored with lemon or vanilla.
7. Tutu de feijão - a dish made from mashed beans seasoned with garlic, onion, and palm oil.
8. Fruta pão - a starchy fruit that is often boiled or fried and served as a side dish or snack.
9. Tapioca - a dish made from cassava flour, served sweet or savory.
10. Canjica - a sweet dish made from corn kernels cooked in coconut milk, sugar, and spices.
You can find general info about typical foods in Sao Tome and Principe here.

Is Santana an expensive destination for tourists?

Relative to other destinations, Santana in Sao Tome and Principe can be considered a bit expensive for tourists. The cost of living in Sao Tome and Principe is generally higher than other countries in the region, and tourist accommodations and activities often come with a high price tag. However, there are also options for budget travel in the area, such as staying in guesthouses or hostels and exploring the natural scenery and local culture independently. It's important to plan and budget accordingly for your trip to Santana and Sao Tome and Principe overall.

Where to find accomodation in Santana

When visiting Santana in Sao Tome and Principe, it is best to find accommodation in the nearby town of São João dos Angolares or the capital city of São Tomé. Both cities offer a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly guesthouses to high-end hotels. São João dos Angolares is closer to Santana and offers a more authentic feel, whereas São Tomé offers more amenities and attractions. There are also a few smaller guesthouses and lodges located closer to Santana, but these options may be more limited.
You can check hotel prices at Santana here:
Booking.com

Is Santana a safe destination for tourists?

Santana, like the rest of São Tomé and Príncipe, is generally considered to be a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to take some basic precautions to ensure your safety. Avoid walking alone at night and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded or unfamiliar areas. It's also a good idea to keep your belongings close to you and not to display large amounts of cash or expensive items in public. Overall, if you take the necessary precautions and exercise common sense, you should be able to enjoy a safe and enjoyable trip to Santana.
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.

What type of travelers will enjoy Santana the most?

Santana in Sao Tome and Principe is a great place for travelers who want to enjoy nature and relax in a peaceful environment. Couples looking for a romantic getaway, families seeking a serene holiday destination, and solo travelers who want a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life will surely enjoy this place. Young people looking for a party scene and nightlife may not find Santana to be the best fit for their preferences. However, there are some adventurous activities to enjoy, such as hiking, snorkeling, and diving, that can appeal to tourists of all ages.

How to get around Santana

In Santana, the best transportation options are shared taxis, which are inexpensive and convenient for short-to-medium distance travel within the town. You can also rent a car or hire a private driver for more flexibility and comfort if you plan to explore more destinations outside of the town. However, keep in mind that the roads in Santana can be rough, so an SUV or 4x4 is recommended.

What to see around Santana

Certainly! Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Santana, Sao Tome and Principe: 1. Bom Bom Island - a private island with beautiful beaches and plenty of snorkeling opportunities 2. Ilheu das Rolas - a small island located on the southern tip of Sao Tome and Principe, with a nice resort and opportunities for hiking and swimming 3. Lagoa Azul - a beautiful lagoon located on the eastern coast of Sao Tome and Principe, with crystal clear waters perfect for swimming and relaxing 4. Praia Jale - a picturesque beach located on the western coast of Sao Tome and Principe, known for its turquoise waters and white sand 5. Roça Agostinho Neto - a historic plantation located in the interior of Sao Tome and Principe, with a museum and guided tours showcasing the island's colonial past.
For every travel information about Sao Tome and Principe you can click here.

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