FAQs
What is the Equator Crossing?
The Equator Crossing is an open water swimming event in the island of São Tomé and Príncipe, that connects Ilhéu das Rolas to Inhame Beach, traversing the Equator line. The total distance is approximately 3,500 meters.
When and where will the event be held?
Date: February 22-23, 2025 . (Planed date is 23rd of February, depending on the weather condition)
Location: Between Ilhéu das Rolas and Praia Inhame Eco Resort, São Tomé and Príncipe
How to get to São Tomé?
Main travel options:
- TAP Air Portugal (departing from Lisbon or Accra)
- STP Airways (departing from Lisbon)
- TAAG Angola Airlines, with layover in Luanda
Where will I be staying during the event?
The event will be held at Praia Inhame Eco Resort, located in the southern part of the island, approximately 100 km from the capital. If you purchased one of our packs you will stay at the Praia Inhame Eco Resort. You can however, make your own arrangements and just come for the crossing.
Do I need to arrange transportation from the airport to the resort?
Participants with a crossing ticket only, should arrange their own transportation to Praia Inhame Eco Resort. If you have purchased other packages which includes accommodation a transport will be offered to the resort.
What support will be provided during the crossing?
- Signaling buoys every 700 meters
- 1 canoe/board for every 3 participants
- Coast Guard monitoring
- Medical team on standby
- Radio communication for staff in the water
- Option to pay for individual canoe with a guide for €45
What is the cost to participate?
- Base registration fee €85 Euros (Just for the crossing and doesn’t include transport or accommodation to the event place)
- Individual support canoe: €45 Euros (optional)
What happens in case of bad weather?
- Possibility of transferring to the alternative date (22nd of February)
- If conditions remain inadequate, the event will be canceled with full refund
What are the water conditions?
- Expected temperature: 26-28°C
- Possibility of currents of up to 8 knots in some parts of the trajectory
- On-site assessment of conditions
- Constant monitoring of currents and weather conditions
Can I hire individual support?
Yes, it is possible to hire an individual support canoe for € 45 euros. This needs to be booked a week before the event date.
Is São Tomé a safe country?
São Tomé is considered one of the most peaceful countries in Africa, with low crime rates and a very welcoming environment for tourists.
What are the physical requirements to participate?
- Previous experience in open water swimming
- Ability to swim continuously for 1 hour
- Specific training in the 3 months prior to the event
What equipments are necessary?
Mandatory:
- Individual safety buoy
- Swimming goggles
- Your own Swimming cap or (available for purchase at the event)
Recommended:
- Waterproof sunscreen
- Anti-chafing lubricant (optional)
- Thermal/neoprene swimwear (optional)
What are the physical requirements to participate?
- Previous experience in open water swimming
- Ability to swim continuously for 1 hour
- Specific training in the 3 months prior to the event
What are the water conditions?
- Expected temperature: 26-28°C
- Possible currents at certain spots during the trajectory
- On-site assessment of conditions
- Constant monitoring of currents and weather conditions