Africa
Money, cards and tipping in Sao Tome and Principe
STNDobra
Money in Sao Tome and Principe
Mostly cash Cash is needed almost everywhere; cards work in a few hotels and at some Sao Tome town restaurants. The dobra is pegged to the euro. US$1 ≈ Db21.77 (03 Oct 2026).
Key facts
- Tipping: Not expected; rounding up or giving a few euros for guides and drivers is appreciated.
- ATMs: Only a few ATMs exist in Sao Tome town and they often reject foreign cards; bring euros and exchange them at banks.
- Paying by phone: None practical for visitors; Apple and Google Pay do not work.
- Price level: about 61% of US prices (World Bank PPP).
Cash or card, by place
| Place | Cards | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| São Tomé | Mostly cash | Cards work at few hotels; cash for almost everything. Euros are accepted in some places, and ATMs in town can be unreliable. |
Quick answers
Do you tip in Sao Tome and Principe?
Not expected; rounding up or giving a few euros for guides and drivers is appreciated.
Is Sao Tome and Principe cashless?
Mostly cash. Cash is needed almost everywhere; cards work in a few hotels and at some Sao Tome town restaurants. The dobra is pegged to the euro.
What currency does Sao Tome and Principe use?
The Dobra (STN). US$1 ≈ Db21.77 (03 Oct 2026).
Sources
- ExchangeRate-API open rates
- US State Department travel advisory
- UK FCDO travel advice: Sao Tome and Principe
- World Bank open data
Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.