Sao Tome and Principe is located in Middle Africa, and its capital is Sao Tome. It has a population of approximately 235,536 and covers an area of about 960 km². Its official currency is the Dobra (STN).
What stands out
People & place
245 /km² across 960 km²
Sao Tome and Principe has a recorded population of 235,536 and a reported surface area of 960 km².
Economic snapshot
$822.2 million nominal GDP
Nominal GDP is recorded at $822.2 million and GDP per capita at $3,491 for 2024. These measures do not describe income distribution or household wealth.
Practical reference
Dobra (STN)
Sao Tome and Principe uses Dobra (STN), calling code +239, internet domain .st.
About Sao Tome and Principe
São Tomé and Príncipe, a Portuguese-speaking island nation in the Gulf of Guinea, off the western equatorial coast of Central Africa, comprises two main islands, São Tomé and Príncipe, and several smaller islets. It is Africa's second-smallest country.
The islands are volcanic in origin and feature lush rainforests, mountainous interiors, and a tropical climate. Pico de São Tomé is the highest peak on São Tomé island. The country's coastline is characterized by sandy beaches and rocky shores.
São Tomé and Príncipe's culture is a blend of Portuguese colonial influences and African traditions, particularly from West Africa. Portuguese is the official language, but local Creoles are widely spoken. Music, dance, and a laid-back lifestyle are prominent. Cuisine often features fresh fish, tropical fruits, and cocoa.
Explored and colonized by the Portuguese in the 15th century, São Tomé and Príncipe became significant centers for sugar production and later for cocoa and coffee cultivation, relying heavily on slave labor. The country gained independence from Portugal on July 12, 1975. After independence, the economy faced challenges, and the nation has since worked towards diversification and development.
Key facts
Capital: São Tomé
Official Language: Portuguese
Currency: São Tomé and Príncipe Dobra (STD)
This overview is AI-assisted and grounded with available atlas facts and reference material. Treat linked primary data as authoritative. Read the methodology.
Population, area and economic figures use the latest available values from World Bank Open Data; reporting years can vary by country. See sources and methodology for indicator definitions, mapping attribution, and editorial limitations.
Sao Tome and Principe has a recorded population of approximately 235,536 people.
How big is Sao Tome and Principe?
Sao Tome and Principe covers an area of about 960 km².
What is the population density of Sao Tome and Principe?
Sao Tome and Principe has a population density of roughly 245 /km² (people per square kilometre).
What is the GDP of Sao Tome and Principe?
Sao Tome and Principe has a gross domestic product (GDP) of approximately $822.2 million as of 2024.
What is the GDP per capita of Sao Tome and Principe?
Sao Tome and Principe has a GDP per capita of approximately $3,491.
What currency is used in Sao Tome and Principe?
Sao Tome and Principe uses the Dobra (STN), with the symbol Db.
Where is Sao Tome and Principe located?
Sao Tome and Principe is located in Middle Africa, Africa.
What is the native name of Sao Tome and Principe?
The native name of Sao Tome and Principe is São Tomé e Príncipe.
What are people from Sao Tome and Principe called?
People from Sao Tome and Principe are referred to as Sao Tomean.
What is the phone calling code for Sao Tome and Principe?
The international dialing code for Sao Tome and Principe is +239.
What is the internet domain for Sao Tome and Principe?
The country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for Sao Tome and Principe is .st.
What time zone is Sao Tome and Principe in?
Sao Tome and Principe uses the Africa/Sao_Tome time zone.
What is Sao Tome and Principe known for?
São Tomé and Príncipe, a Portuguese-speaking island nation in the Gulf of Guinea, off the western equatorial coast of Central Africa, comprises two main islands, São Tomé and Príncipe, and several smaller islets. It is Africa's second-smallest country.
Middle Africa