Blue Lagoon, São Tomé: How to Get There (Full 2025 Guide)

The Blue Lagoon is one of the most photographed spots on São Tomé Island — a natural turquoise-water pool set against the volcanic rocks of the north, ideal for snorkeling and for anyone looking for one of the country's most beautiful corners. In this guide we explain exactly how to get there, the state of the road, and everything you need to know before setting off.

Where the Blue Lagoon is located

The Blue Lagoon lies northwest of the town of Guadalupe, in the northern part of São Tomé Island, in the Lobata district.

Distance and travel time from São Tomé city

From São Tomé city to the Blue Lagoon it's about 15 kilometres by road, roughly a 40-minute drive.

Step-by-step directions

When you reach the town of Guadalupe, follow these landmarks in this order: the Police Command, the petrol station and the Church of Nossa Senhora de Guadalupe. Right after that you'll reach a roundabout — this is the decision point:

• Left: leads to Neves and the Blue Lagoon.
• Right: leads to Morro Peixe and the famous Tamarindos Beach.

Road conditions and access

The good news is that it's impossible to get lost: heading north/northwest there is only one road, and the road to the Blue Lagoon is the same one you'll take back.

As for the road surface, up to the town of Guadalupe it's in very good condition — practically new. Beyond Guadalupe, towards Neves, conditions change: potholes start to appear along the way.

Special note after rain: if it has rained in the preceding days, we recommend parking near the entrance to the Blue Lagoon and walking the last 100 metres. Under normal conditions, you can drive down to the first baobab trees and park there — further on, the ground takes on a consistency similar to glue, so it isn't worth the risk.

The last stretch of the access route is rough and deserves extra care, whatever the weather.

What to do at the Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is especially popular among snorkelling enthusiasts: to the right of the lagoon you can spot countless colourful fish among the rocks, in one of the best road-accessible snorkelling spots on the island.

Safety tip: if you're not used to diving or snorkelling, we recommend bringing water shoes, due to the presence of sea urchins on the rocks.

The Blue Lagoon Lighthouse

Beside the lagoon, on Morro do Carregado — a headland about 15 km northwest of São Tomé city, on the island's north coast, in the Lobata district — you'll find the São Tomé lighthouse of the Blue Lagoon.

It's a cross-sectioned concrete column, painted with horizontal white and red stripes, with a lantern and gallery, standing about 7 metres tall. A short climb to the top rewards you with a privileged view over the other side of the Blue Lagoon.

Planning your visit to the Blue Lagoon?

If you'd like to rent a 4x4, book an organised tour to the Blue Lagoon, or find out the best spots for snorkelling in the area, get in touch with our team. We'd be delighted to help you plan this trip.

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