What Language Do They Speak in São Tomé and Príncipe?
Facts last checked 9 October 2026.
The official language of São Tomé and Príncipe is Portuguese. Portuguese is also an official language in 7 other countries worldwide.
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Languages of São Tomé and Príncipe at a glance
| Official language | Portuguese |
|---|---|
| Number of official languages | 1 |
| Countries on this site where Portuguese is official | 8 |
| People (demonym) | Sao Tomean |
| Capital | São Tomé |
| Internet domain | .st |
Other countries where Portuguese is official
Portuguese is also an official language in 7 other countries covered here:
São Tomé and Príncipe in context
- São Tomé and Príncipe covers 964 km², making it the 172nd largest of the 196 countries on this site.
- Its population density of about 217 people per km² ranks 49th of 196 (1st = most crowded).
- São Tomé and Príncipe has no land borders with other countries on this site.
- With 209,607 people, São Tomé and Príncipe holds about 0.1% of the population of Middle Africa.
- Traffic drives on the right, and calendars start the week on Monday.
- São Tomé and Príncipe is a member state of the United Nations.
Useful phrases for visitors to São Tomé and Príncipe
Everyday Portuguese phrases you will hear and use in São Tomé and Príncipe:
| English | Portuguese |
|---|---|
| Hello | Olá |
| Thank you | Obrigado (m) / Obrigada (f) |
| Please | Por favor |
| Goodbye | Adeus |
| Yes | Sim |
| No | Não |
Spellings can vary by region, and some languages use different forms for formal or informal speech. Even a simple greeting in the local language is usually appreciated.
Languages in São Tomé and Príncipe — FAQ
What language do they speak in São Tomé and Príncipe?
The official language of São Tomé and Príncipe is Portuguese.
How many official languages does São Tomé and Príncipe have?
São Tomé and Príncipe has 1 official language: Portuguese.
Is Portuguese spoken anywhere else?
Portuguese is also an official language in 7 other countries.
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