A layover in Sao Tome is one of those happy accidents of air travel. São Tomé International Airport sits just 50 minutes from the city center by local transport, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at TMS:
First, verify that you can enter Sao Tome and Principe — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the local transport takes about 50 minutes into Sao Tome, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — local currency is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Spend Your Time in Sao Tome
For a layover visit to Sao Tome, we’d suggest National Museum (Fortress of São Sebastião) and Mercado Municipal (Central Market). Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history. The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything.
If you’d rather stay inside TMS — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- TMS Duty-Free Shop
- Local Craft & Souvenir Stalls
Best Bites Near TMS
For food in Sao Tome, local travelers recommend O Pirata. If you have time for a second stop, Sum Cerveja is another popular pick.
Back at TMS, TMS Airport Café is the go-to. Departure Lounge Snack Kiosk rounds out your in-terminal options.
Getting to Sao Tome from the Airport
You have two main options for getting from São Tomé International Airport into town:
- local transport: About 50 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 70 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Planning Your Layover Spending
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Sao Tome:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $20 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $40 USD total.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Sao Tome.
Storing Your Luggage at São Tomé International Airport
Luggage storage options at TMS can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Sao Tome for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
WiFi at TMS should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Sao Tome and Principe and you’re good to go.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, TMS has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Sao Tome count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave TMS. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.