Last updated: January 18, 2025
São Tomé Island, part of São Tomé and Príncipe, exhibits a tropical rainforest climate according to the Köppen-Geiger classification. Characterized by consistently warm temperatures, the island experiences a minimum of 22°C (73°F) in July, an average of 26°C (79°F) throughout the year, and peaks at 29°C (85°F) in March. These climate conditions foster a lush, verdant landscape that supports a rich diversity of flora and fauna, making São Tomé not only a geographical gem but also an ecological treasure.
São Tomé Island experiences a tropical climate characterized by consistent warm temperatures throughout the year, with minor seasonal variations. The island's temperature patterns reveal a slight increase towards the beginning of the year, peaking in early months like January to March, where minimum temperatures range from 24°C (76°F) to 25°C (77°F) and maximums consistently reach 29°C (84-85°F). As the year progresses into the mid-year months, a gradual cooling occurs, with July marking the lowest average temperatures, dropping to around 24°C (76°F). However, temperatures begin to rise again towards the end of the year, with December maintaining similar warmth to January. This gentle oscillation underscores a stable tropical climate, promoting rich biodiversity and lush vegetation on the island.
Sao Joao dos Angolares, Trindade, and Sao Tome all share similar temperature ranges, with minimum temperatures around 22°C (73°F) in July and maximums reaching 29°C (85°F) in March. For detailed monthly temperatures, you can refer to monthly temperatures in Sao Joao dos Angolares, monthly temperatures in Trindade, and monthly temperatures in Sao Tome.
São Tomé Island experiences a distinct wet season characterized by significant rainfall, particularly from October through December. During this period, precipitation reaches its annual peak, with November receiving 233 mm (9.2 in) and December averaging 257 mm (10.1 in), corresponding with 27 to 28 rainy days. This surge in rainfall fosters the lush tropical rainforest ecosystem for which the island is famed. Notably, April and May also see substantial precipitation, with figures around 162 mm (6.4 in) and 159 mm (6.3 in), respectively, demonstrating the persistence of moisture leading into the end of the wet season.
Conversely, the drier months from June to August present a stark contrast, with July recording a mere 19 mm (0.7 in), making it one of the driest months of the year with only 3 rainy days. August and September see a slight uptick in precipitation, but the overall trend remains towards reduced rainfall. January through May showcases relatively higher values as well, maintaining monthly averages of 127 mm (5.0 in) to 162 mm (6.4 in), but the rainfall intensity diminishes as the year progresses toward the drier summer months. This precipitation pattern plays a crucial role in shaping the island's climate and ecological dynamics.
The sunshine duration on São Tomé Island exhibits a clear seasonal trend, with hours of sunlight steadily increasing from January through the mid-year months. Starting with 250 hours in January, the island welcomes brighter days that culminate in 291 hours of sunshine by August. March emerges as a significant month, boasting 279 hours, while the peak occurs in September with 295 hours. This pattern highlights the island's transition from the cooler, wetter early months into a sunnier period that invigorates both the landscape and its vibrant ecosystems.
As the year progresses towards the end, sunshine hours remain notably high, dipping slightly to 274 hours in October and 268 hours in November. Even as the rainy season approaches its peak, particularly during November, the island still enjoys ample sunlight, peaking at 290 hours in December. This remarkable consistency in sunshine hours throughout the year enhances São Tomé's appeal, making it an attractive destination for visitors seeking a balance of natural beauty and pleasant weather.
In São Tomé Island, the UV Index exhibits a pattern of extreme levels throughout most of the year, especially in the peak months from January to April, where readings range from 12 to 14. This level of UV intensity means that sun exposure should be limited, with a burn time of just 10 minutes recommended for unprotected skin during these months. February and March consistently register a UV Index of 13, while April reaches its maximum at 14, underscoring the need for sun protection during these critical times. Even the transition months, such as May and August, maintain high UV levels, retaining values that necessitate caution.
As the year progresses into June and July, the UV Index drops marginally to 10, categorized as very high, allowing for a slightly extended burn time of 15 minutes. However, the UV Index rebounds in August, returning to 11, then for the remainder of the year, it remains predominantly at 12 or 13 from September to November. The consistency of high UV levels throughout the year highlights São Tomé's positioning near the equator, emphasizing the importance of year-round sun safety practices for both residents and visitors alike.
UV Risk Categories
In São Tomé Island, daylight duration remains remarkably consistent throughout the entire year, averaging 12 hours each day. This stable pattern is characteristic of tropical regions located near the equator, where the length of day and night experiences minimal variation. Regardless of the season, visitors can expect a predictable balance of light, providing ample time for exploration and outdoor activities amid the island's lush landscapes and vibrant biodiversity.
The unchanging nature of daylight hours not only enhances the island's appeal as a travel destination but also plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem. With 12 hours of sunlight available every day, vegetation can thrive, contributing to São Tomé's reputation as a tropical paradise. This consistent exposure to daylight supports agricultural practices and enriches the island's natural beauty, making it a captivating environment for both residents and tourists alike.
The climate in Guadalupe, São Tome and Príncipe, is characterized by warm temperatures year-round, with averages ranging from 25°C (77°F) in July to 28°C (82°F) in March and April. Precipitation sees a marked increase from May through December, peaking in November with 245 mm (9.7 in) and December at 258 mm (10.1 in). The region enjoys considerable sunshine, particularly from July to September, with over 290 hours of sun each month during this period. For more details, visit Guadalupe climate.
Sao Joao dos Angolares, located in Sao Tome and Principe, experiences a tropical climate with consistent temperatures throughout the year, averaging between 24°C (76°F) and 29°C (84°F). The region sees significant rainfall, particularly from October to December, with November receiving the highest average monthly precipitation of 229 mm (9.0 in). The dry season runs from June to August, featuring the lowest rainfall, especially in July, which has only 17 mm (0.7 in). Sunshine is abundant, with the highest hours in September at 295 hours. For more details, visit Sao Joao dos Angolares climate.
Sao Tome, Sao Tome and Principe, enjoys a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round. Average monthly temperatures range from 24°C (76°F) to 27°C (81°F), with the warmest months being February to April. The island experiences significant rainfall, particularly from October to December, with November receiving up to 229 mm (9.0 in) of precipitation. Sunshine hours are abundant, peaking in September with 295 hours. For more detailed information, visit Sao Tome climate.
Trindade, São Tome and Principe features a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures year-round, with averages ranging from 24°C (76°F) in July to 27°C (81°F) in the winter months. Precipitation is heaviest from October to December, with November receiving the most rainfall at 229 mm (9.0 in), while the driest months are July and August, with only 17 mm (0.7 in) and 26 mm (1.0 in) respectively. Sunshine is abundant, peaking in September with 295 hours, providing plenty of daylight throughout the year. For more detailed information, check the Trindade climate.
In conclusion, São Tomé Island offers a unique climate characterized by its warm temperatures, substantial precipitation during the wet season, high sunshine duration, and consistently elevated UV Index throughout the year. The island's stable daylight duration of 12 hours fosters a thriving ecosystem and enriches the experience for both local residents and visitors seeking to explore its stunning landscapes. Understanding these climatic features not only highlights the environmental significance of this tropical paradise but also emphasizes the importance of sun safety and responsible outdoor practices to fully enjoy the natural beauty and biodiversity that São Tomé has to offer.