Sao Tome and Principe - Electrical Outlets & Adapters
Electricity in São Tomé and Príncipe: Simple Guide for Travelers
The Most Important Thing to Know
São Tomé and Príncipe uses European-style electricity with round pin plugs and 220 volts.
Do I Need to Bring Anything?
If You're From Europe
No, you don't need anything. Your plugs will work perfectly - just plug in and go.
If You're From the USA, Canada, UK, Australia, or New Zealand
Yes, you need a plug adapter. Your plugs have different shapes and won't fit into the outlets.
What to buy: A simple travel adapter that converts your plug shape to European round pins. Cost: about $10-20.
Where to buy: Amazon, airport shops, or electronics stores before you leave. (Don't wait until you arrive - limited options there.)
Will My Devices Work?
Most Modern Electronics: YES ✓
These work fine without any special equipment:
- Smartphones
- Laptops
- Tablets
- Camera chargers
- E-readers
Why? They're designed to handle different voltages automatically. Look for "INPUT: 100-240V" on the charger - this means it works worldwide.
Older Appliances: MAYBE ✗
Items like older hair dryers or electric shavers might not work safely because they were made for 110V only. Check the label first.
What's the Difference Between Type C and Type F?
Don't worry about this - they both work together!
- Type C: Simple two round pins
- Type F: Two round pins with extra metal clips for grounding
The outlets accept both types, so you don't need to know which is which. Just get an adapter that says "European" or "Type C/F" and you're covered.
Quick Checklist Before Your Trip
□ Buy a European plug adapter (if not from Europe)
□ Check your device chargers say "100-240V"
□ Bring a portable power bank for day trips
□ Pack your adapter in your carry-on (easy to forget!)
Tips
- Hotels: All hotels have the right outlets, but bring your adapter
- Jungle trips: Charge everything beforehand - no power in the rainforest!
- Rural areas: Power can be unreliable, so a power bank is essential
- Bring extras: If one adapter breaks, you'll be glad you have a backup
Bottom Line
European travelers: Nothing needed
Everyone else: Buy one simple European adapter and you're set
That's it! Don't overthink it - this is much simpler than it sounds.
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Throw a (powerfull) portable battery pack in your bag for outdoor adventures.
In summary
Don't overthink this - electrical compatibility is one of the easiest aspects of international travel once you understand the basics. I you are from outside Europe, with a simple $15 adapter, you'll have everything you need to stay powered throughout your São Tomé and Príncipe adventure. Focus your energy on planning which beaches to visit, which chocolate plantations to tour, and whether you're brave enough to tackle the Pico de São Tomé jungle trek. The electricity part? You've got it covered.
Safe travels, and as they say in São Tomé: leve leve - take it easy!
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