Guinea-Bissau Travel Information

Guinea-Bissau is a West African country known for its stunning beaches, lush forests, and vibrant culture. With its rich history, diverse wildlife, and unique landscapes, there are plenty of exciting things to see and do in this fascinating country. Here are the top 10 things to do when visiting Guinea-Bissau:

1. Visit the Bijagos Archipelago

This stunning collection of 88 islands and islets is a must-visit for beach lovers and adventure seekers. With its crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches, the Bijagos Archipelago is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun.

2. Explore the Forest of the Gorillas

Located in the southern part of the country, the Forest of the Gorillas is home to a number of rare and endangered species, including the Western Lowland Gorilla. Visitors can take guided tours to spot these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

3. Visit the Island of Bubaque

One of the largest islands in the Bijagos Archipelago, Bubaque is a popular destination for visitors to Guinea-Bissau. With its lush forests, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife, there is plenty to see and do on this island paradise.

4. Explore the Historic Sites of Bolama

Once the capital of Portuguese Guinea, Bolama is home to a number of historic sites, including colonial-era buildings, monuments, and museums. Visitors can learn about the country's rich history and culture at these fascinating sites.

5. Visit the National Park of Orango

Located on the Orango Peninsula in the Bissagos Archipelago, this national park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including sea turtles, monkeys, and a variety of bird species. Visitors can take guided tours or go kayaking to explore this stunning natural area.

6. Take a Boat Trip to the Mangrove Swamps

The mangrove swamps of Guinea-Bissau are home to a diverse range of wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and even crocodiles. Visitors can take a boat trip to explore these unique ecosystems and see the diverse wildlife that lives there.

7. Visit the Cultural Village of Cacheu

Located in the Cacheu region, this cultural village is a must-visit for visitors to Guinea-Bissau. With its traditional architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture, visitors can learn about the country's diverse heritage and traditions.

8. Explore the Pink Lakes of the Senegal River

The pink lakes of the Senegal River are a unique and fascinating natural wonder. Visitors can take a boat trip to explore these stunning lakes, which are tinted pink by a type of algae that thrives in the area.

9. Visit the Historic Sites of Bissau

The capital city of Bissau is home to a number of historic sites, including colonial-era buildings, monuments, and museums. Visitors can learn about the country's rich history and culture at these fascinating sites.

10. Try the Local Cuisine

Guinea-Bissau is known for its diverse and delicious cuisine, featuring fresh seafood, spices, and unique flavors. Visitors can try a range of local dishes, including grilled seafood, stews, and traditional specialties, at local restaurants and street stalls.

Climate

Guinea-Bissau has a tropical climate, with hot and humid temperatures throughout the year. There are two main seasons in the country: the dry season, which runs from November to May, and the rainy season, which runs from June to October. The rainy season is characterized by heavy rainfall, particularly in the coastal areas.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Guinea-Bissau is during the dry season, from November to May, when temperatures are warm and dry. This is the peak tourist season, and is a great time to explore the country's beaches, forests, and wildlife. The rainy season can make travel more challenging, with heavy rainfall and flooding in some areas, so it is best to avoid visiting during this time.

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.

Guinea-Bissau offers a range of accommodation options for visitors, from budget-friendly options to luxury hotels. Here are some of the most popular options:

Hotels and Resorts

Visitors to Guinea-Bissau can choose from a range of hotels and resorts, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury properties. Many of these are located in the capital city of Bissau, as well as in other popular tourist destinations, such as the Bijagos Archipelago.

Guesthouses and Hostels

For budget-conscious travelers, there are a number of guesthouses and hostels available in the country, offering basic accommodation at an affordable price. These options are often located in the cities and towns, and provide a convenient base for exploring the area.

Campsites

For those looking for a more adventurous experience, there are a number of campsites available in Guinea-Bissau, offering the opportunity to sleep under the stars in some of the country's most stunning natural areas. These options are often located in national parks and other protected areas, and provide a unique way to explore the country's wilderness.

Traditional Accommodation

For a truly authentic experience, visitors can opt to stay in traditional accommodation in Guinea-Bissau, such as a local homestay or a traditional Bijagos hut. These options offer a unique glimpse into the country's local culture and way of life, and provide an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local community.

Guinea-Bissau offers a variety of transportation options for visitors, ranging from taxis and buses to boats and planes. Here are some of the most popular options:

Taxis

Taxis are a common mode of transportation in Guinea-Bissau, and are a convenient option for getting around the cities and towns. They are usually metered, but it is a good idea to agree on the fare before setting off.

Buses

Buses are a popular mode of transportation in the country, and are a cost-effective way to get around. They operate between the cities and towns, and also provide connections to neighboring countries such as Senegal and Guinea-Conakry.

Boats

Boats are a key mode of transportation in Guinea-Bissau, particularly in the coastal areas and the Bijagos Archipelago. Visitors can take local boats to explore the islands, or opt for a guided tour to discover the area's unique ecosystems and wildlife.

Planes

For longer distances, visitors can take a flight to their destination. Guinea-Bissau has a small but functional airport in Bissau, which has connections to other cities in West Africa, including Dakar, Banjul, and Conakry.

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.