Best Season to Travel
São Tomé can be visited all year long since major weather events are unpredictable. However, in general terms, there is a dry season (July to September), a short rainy season (January and February), and the remaining months fall under the rainy season.
As shown on the Rainfall Map, the island experiences diverse climates. This variation is due to ocean winds coming from the southwest, resulting in an uneven distribution of rain across the island. The northern region is significantly drier than the southern and central areas.
Climate, Rainfall, Temperatures, and More
Regional Climate Categories
- Coastal areas: Fresh breeze, rapid weather changes.
- Mountainous areas: High humidity, light to heavy rainfall (especially in the afternoon).
- Northern areas: Dry, savanna-like climate. The capital, São Tomé, is at the border, so it is also relatively dry (most rains occur in the morning between 5 and 8 AM).
- Southern areas: Tropical climate with dense forests.
Rainfall and Showers
- North: ~2000 mm of annual rainfall.
- South: ~7000 mm of annual rainfall.
- October and November are often rainy months.
- March can experience heavy showers and sudden downpours (boats are taken out of the water and placed onshore during this period).
Temperatures
São Tomé’s temperature conditions contribute to its reputation as a “Little Paradise” in the Gulf of Guinea.
- Temperatures are milder than in most Central African countries.
- Average temperature: 21º – 25ºC.
- Due to ocean winds, the humidity level is lower than in other Central African countries.
Influence of the Wind
- The primary wind stream comes from the southwest and is blocked by the central mountains.
- This explains why the north remains drier, while the south experiences higher humidity.
- Clouds accumulate in the central and mountainous regions, leading to more rainfall there.
- Unlike many other African regions, it is possible to sleep comfortably without air conditioning or a fan, thanks to the consistent ocean breeze, depending on the season and on the location.
Best Season According to Activities
Wildlife Observation
- Sea Turtles: The season begins in September and ends in May. The peak period runs from November to March, as this is when both night patrols (for nesting) and hatchling releases occur simultaneously. Night patrols start in October, and the last hatchlings are released by late April or early May.
- Dolphins: Present all year round!
- Whales: Best spotted during the dry season (July to September). Species include humpback whales, pilot whales, and other cetaceans.
- Endemic birds and monkeys: Visible all year long.
Hikes and Treks
- Family-friendly hikes (e.g., Amelia Lagoon, Angolares Waterfall) are possible all year.
- Difficult treks are more manageable during the dry season, as there is less rainfall. Nevertheless, if you hike to the top of São Tomé, you are more likely to get a clear open sky in the rainy season, as the sky opens after the rain clears the clouds!
- Wild trek to Porto Alegre: Rainfall and tides impact the difficulty of crossing major rivers. During the dry season, the ocean is rougher, so it may take longer to reach the trek’s starting point at São Miguel plantation from Santa Catarina, but the rivers will be easier to cross!
Local Fishing Game
- Sailfish season: Best between November and February.
- Other fish species: Available year-round.
Transportation
- Despite uneven road quality, travel is possible throughout the year.
- Northern region: Drier conditions make motorcycle rental a good option.
- All regions: A 4×4 vehicle is recommended, as roads become more challenging beyond Ribeira Peixe, especially due to frequent rain.
General Travel Tips
- Rainfall occurs in many areas but rarely lasts long, followed by clear blue skies.
- As São Tomé is a tropical island, always carry extra dry clothes and a light rain jacket. It’s better to have them and not need them than to be caught unprepared and spend the day soaking wet.