Equatorial Guinea Travel Information

Equatorial Guinea is a small country located in Central Africa, known for its beautiful beaches, diverse wildlife, and unique cultural heritage. Despite its small size, there are plenty of things to see and do in Equatorial Guinea. Here are the top 10 things to do in the country:

1. Visit the Beaches

Equatorial Guinea has several beautiful beaches, including Arena Blanca Beach, Ureka Beach, and Sipopo Beach. Visitors can relax on the sandy shores, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and enjoy water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving.

2. Explore the Rainforest

Equatorial Guinea is home to dense rainforests that are teeming with wildlife. Visitors can go on guided tours through the forests and spot animals like gorillas, chimpanzees, and elephants. The Monte Alén National Park and the Pico Basilé National Park are popular destinations for nature lovers.

3. Visit Malabo

Malabo is the capital city of Equatorial Guinea, and it's worth exploring for its architecture and culture. Visitors can see landmarks like the Malabo Cathedral and the Presidential Palace, and wander through the bustling markets to experience the local way of life.

4. Take a Boat Tour

Equatorial Guinea is surrounded by water, and taking a boat tour is a great way to see the country from a different perspective. Visitors can take boat tours to see the beaches, explore the islands, and spot marine life like dolphins and sea turtles.

5. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cogo

Cogo is a small town in Equatorial Guinea that is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site: the Church of the Immaculate Conception. The church was built in the 19th century and is known for its unique mix of African and European architectural styles.

6. Attend a Festival

Equatorial Guinea is home to several festivals throughout the year, including the Bantu Festival and the Eboga Festival. These festivals are a great way to experience the country's cultural heritage, music, dance, and food.

7. Visit the Traditional Villages

Equatorial Guinea is home to several traditional villages that offer a glimpse into the country's cultural heritage. Visitors can see traditional homes, learn about local customs and traditions, and sample local cuisine.

8. Visit the Markets

The markets in Equatorial Guinea are vibrant and bustling, and a visit to one is a great way to experience the local way of life. Visitors can buy fresh produce, local crafts, and souvenirs.

9. Visit the Moca Valley

The Moca Valley is a beautiful region in Equatorial Guinea that is home to several small villages and stunning landscapes. Visitors can take guided tours of the region and see waterfalls, coffee plantations, and traditional homes.

10. Go Fishing

Equatorial Guinea is a great destination for fishing, with several species of fish available in the country's rivers and coastlines. Visitors can go on fishing tours to catch fish like barracuda, marlin, and tuna.

Climate

Equatorial Guinea has a tropical climate, with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. The country experiences two seasons: a rainy season and a dry season.

The rainy season runs from March to May and from September to December. During this time, the country experiences heavy rainfall, with some areas becoming flooded. The dry season runs from December to February and from June to August. During this time, the country experiences lower humidity and less rainfall.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Equatorial Guinea is during the dry season, from December to February and from June to August. During this time, visitors can enjoy the country's beaches, rainforests, and cultural attractions without worrying about heavy rainfall or flooding.

It's important to note that even during the dry season, Equatorial Guinea can still be quite humid and hot, so visitors should be prepared for high temperatures and bring appropriate clothing and sunscreen.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

Hotels

There are several hotels in Equatorial Guinea, ranging from budget options to luxury properties. Many of the hotels are located in the capital city of Malabo, but there are also options in other parts of the country. Some of the top hotels in Equatorial Guinea include the Hilton Malabo, Sofitel Malabo Sipopo Le Golf, and the Ibis Malabo.

Guesthouses

Guesthouses are a popular option for visitors who want to stay in a more traditional setting. There are several guesthouses in Equatorial Guinea, particularly in smaller towns and villages. Some of the guesthouses offer basic amenities, while others provide more luxurious accommodations.

Resorts

Equatorial Guinea has several resorts, particularly in the Sipopo area. These resorts offer a range of amenities, including swimming pools, restaurants, and water sports. Some of the top resorts in Equatorial Guinea include the Sofitel Malabo Sipopo Le Golf and the Hotel Anda China Malabo.

Apartments and Villas

For visitors who want more space and privacy, there are several apartments and villas available for rent in Equatorial Guinea. These properties can be found in both urban and rural areas of the country.

Homestays

Homestays are a great option for visitors who want to experience local culture and hospitality. There are several families in Equatorial Guinea who offer homestays, allowing visitors to stay in their homes and experience daily life in the country.

Domestic Flights

Equatorial Guinea has a few domestic airports, with regular flights between the main island of Bioko and the mainland region of Rio Muni. The national airline, Ceiba Intercontinental, offers regular flights between Malabo and Bata, as well as to other African countries.

Taxis

Taxis are a popular mode of transportation in Equatorial Guinea, particularly in urban areas. Visitors should negotiate the fare before getting in the taxi, as meters are not always used. Taxis can be found at taxi stands or hailed on the street.

Buses

Buses are available in Equatorial Guinea, but the service is limited and not always reliable. The buses are generally overcrowded and uncomfortable, and may not run on a regular schedule. It's also important to note that buses in Equatorial Guinea can be unsafe, with some drivers taking risks on the road.

Car Rental

Car rental is available in Equatorial Guinea, but it can be expensive and difficult to arrange. Visitors should have an international driver's license and be prepared for driving on rough, unpaved roads.

Ferry

A ferry service operates between Bata and Malabo, and is a popular option for getting between the mainland and the main island. The ferry is operated by the government and runs several times per week.

Walking

In some parts of Equatorial Guinea, walking is a viable option for getting around, particularly in smaller towns and villages. However, visitors should be aware of safety concerns and take precautions to avoid becoming a target of crime.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.