Is Sao Tome and Principe cashless?
Cash essential#180 of 197 in The Cashlessy Index 2026 · #44 of 54 in Africa
Short answer: Bring or withdraw enough cash for your trip. Cards will rarely help.
Bring euros in cash. Very few places accept cards and there are few ATMs for foreign cards.
Will my card work?
Rarely or not at all. Do not count on using a foreign card in Sao Tome and Principe.
Do I need cash?
Yes, plenty. Most payments in Sao Tome and Principe are made in cash, so plan how you will get it.
Local currency: Sao Tome dobra (STN)
How does tipping work?
Around 10% in restaurants.
Mobile payments
No widely used mobile wallets for visitors. Stick to cards where accepted, and cash.
Frequently asked questions
Is Sao Tome and Principe cashless?
Sao Tome and Principe scores 4/100 on Cashlessy (cash essential), ranking #180 of 197 countries. Bring euros in cash. Very few places accept cards and there are few ATMs for foreign cards.
Do I need cash in Sao Tome and Principe?
Yes, plenty. Most payments in Sao Tome and Principe are made in cash, so plan how you will get it.
Are credit cards accepted in Sao Tome and Principe?
Rarely or not at all. Do not count on using a foreign card in Sao Tome and Principe.
Do you tip in Sao Tome and Principe?
Around 10% in restaurants.
Compare with Africa
Editorial estimate, last reviewed September 2026. Payment habits change quickly; see how we score.