Can I use cards on buses and public transport in Sao Tome and Principe?

I traveled around São Tomé recently and had to pay all my bus fares in cash. ATMs didn’t work with my foreign cards, and only a few hotels accepted credit card payments. The local currency is Dobra, but Euros and dollars were fine in many places. I carried enough cash to avoid any difficulties, and it was definitely the easiest way to pay for transport and food.

Using cards in São Tomé and Príncipe is tricky-most ATMs don’t support international bank cards, and public buses only take cash. You’ll want to bring plenty of Euros or US dollars before you go because changing money locally isn’t straightforward. Some hotels might accept bank transfers or cards, but for everyday transport, it’s strictly cash payments. It’s best to plan your budget carefully.

If you plan to use public transport in São Tomé and Príncipe, bring enough cash with you. ATMs are unreliable and won’t accept international cards, so withdrawing money locally isn’t really an option. Most locals pay in Dobras, but Euros and USD are widely accepted in tourist areas. Paying for buses or taxis with cards isn’t possible, so stock up on cash before arriving.

In São Tomé and Príncipe, cash is definitely king for bus and transport payments. Most buses will only accept payment in the local currency, the Dobra. Credit cards are accepted mostly in top-end hotels like Pestana Miramar but not for local buses or street vendors. ATMs don’t work with international cards, so bring enough cash in Euros or US dollars to cover your stay.