There are about 3 travel eSIM providers and 21 prepaid data plans in São Tomé and Príncipe. Although the selection is not extensive, travelers can still choose a plan that matches their needs.
Currently, there are no unlimited data eSIM plans available for São Tomé and Príncipe. Travelers should estimate their data usage based on anticipated activities such as browsing, social media, or streaming, and select a plan with a data allowance that comfortably covers these needs throughout their trip.
São Tomé and Príncipe is served by two primary Mobile Network Operators (MNOs):
Companhia Santomense de Telecomunicações (CST): Established in 1990, CST is the state-owned telecommunications provider offering mobile voice and data services, including 2G, 3G, and, as of August 2023, 4G LTE coverage across the islands.
Unitel São Tomé and Príncipe: A subsidiary of Angola-based Unitel International Holdings, Unitel began operations in 2014 and provides mobile voice and data services. In May 2023, Unitel launched the country's first commercial 4G LTE network.
Currently, São Tomé and Príncipe does not have any Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs).
There are currently no travel eSIM plans that include a phone number or SMS capability for São Tomé and Príncipe. Because the dataset contains no telephony‑enabled options for this destination, travelers cannot obtain a local or foreign number that can send or receive SMS directly through the eSIM.
However, data‑only eSIMs are still available for São Tomé and Príncipe. With a data plan, users can make voice and text communications through VoIP applications such as WhatsApp, Telegram, iMessage, or similar services that rely on an internet connection.
Summarized by Gen AI. Last updated: