Staying connected
SIM cards and staying connected
CST and Unitel, where to buy a SIM, registration, coverage on Príncipe and in the south, and how to stay reachable on WhatsApp.
Buy a local SIM from CST or Unitel STP on arrival, with your passport. Coverage is reasonable around towns on São Tomé, patchier in the far south, inland forest and much of Príncipe.
The two networks
CST (Companhia Santomense de Telecomunicações) is the long-established operator and is described as having the widest coverage. Unitel STP is the second network. Sources disagree on which offers faster data where; 4G is reported in and around the capital and larger towns. Bundle names and prices change, so check current offers at the counter rather than relying on old price lists online.
Practical steps
- Make sure your phone is unlocked before you leave home.
- Bring your passport to the shop for registration.
- Buy a data bundle; credit for calls is separate.
- Save your guide’s and hotel’s numbers and send them a WhatsApp message so they have yours.
- Download offline maps and offline Portuguese in your translation app.
Staying reachable
WhatsApp is how most guides, drivers and small hotels communicate. Keep your home number active on WhatsApp if possible so messages from before your trip still reach you. If you are planning with us, tell us which number you will use on the islands.
Also asked
Quick answers
Can I buy a SIM card at São Tomé airport?
Travel SIM guides say both CST and Unitel STP sell SIM cards at the airport and in town. Bring your passport: SIM registration requires identification. Counter hours do not always match flight times, so a shop in town is the backup.
Will my eSIM work?
Some international eSIM providers list São Tomé & Príncipe, usually at high prices per gigabyte. If you rely on one, check that it lists the country specifically and test it on arrival.
Is there signal on Príncipe?
In and around Santo António, generally yes. Reports describe slower data and patchy coverage elsewhere on the island. Assume you may be offline on boat trips and forest walks.
Plan with a person
Want this arranged for you?
Send your dates and what you want from the trip. We reply with practical options, the guides we would choose for you, what is confirmed and what is not, and a clear total price.
No payment to ask. Nothing is booked until you confirm a written quote.
Keep planning
Sources consulted (things change quickly here; if you have newer information, tell us):