Guinea-Bissau: an authentic destination to discover

Guinea-Bissau is a low-key West African country, offering varied landscapes, rich culture and warm hospitality.

From its pristine beaches to its lush forests and paradise islands, this country is an ideal destination for those in search of authenticity, nature and a change of scenery.

Here's everything you need to know to plan your trip to discover this hidden gem.

Climate

Guinea-Bissau enjoys a tropical climate with two distinct seasons.

Rainy season (June to October): During this period, temperatures are high (around 30°C), and rains are frequent, especially in coastal regions.

This climate creates lush vegetation and a humid atmosphere, ideal for discovering the country's flora and fauna.

Dry season (November to May): This is the best time to visit the country.

Temperatures are slightly cooler (around 25-30°C), and the weather is sunny, perfect for exploring beaches, islands and natural attractions.

The dry season, from November to May, is the most pleasant time to visit Guinea-Bissau, with a more moderate climate and ideal conditions for outdoor activities and relaxing on the beaches.

Administrative formalities

Passport: A passport valid for at least 6 months after your entry date is required to enter Guinea-Bissau.

Visa: A visa is required for European nationals.

You can obtain a visa either through the Guinea-Bissau embassy in your country or through an e-visa.

Be sure to check current requirements before you depart.

Vaccinations: It is recommended to be up to date on basic vaccinations (hepatitis A and B, typhoid, measles).

Yellow fever is also mandatory to enter the country if you are coming from a country at risk.

Health insurance: Travel insurance including health and repatriation coverage is strongly recommended, as medical infrastructure is limited in some areas of the country.

Activities not to be missed

Guinea-Bissau is a paradise for lovers of nature, adventure and authenticity.

Here are some must-do activities

The Bijagós Islands: The Bijagós archipelago is a place of spectacular beauty.

This group of islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is ideal for scuba diving, bird watching, or simply relaxing on wild, deserted beaches.

Some islands such as Orango and Bubaque are renowned for their varied wildlife, including dolphins and sea turtles.

Beaches: Guinea-Bissau is known for its secluded and unspoiled beaches.

Praia de Bissau and Praia de Uiba are ideal spots for relaxing, swimming or practicing water sports.

Nature reserves and parks: The country has many nature reserves, such as the João Vieira and Poilão National Park, which is home to exceptional flora and fauna.

You can observe sea lions, turtles, crocodiles and a wide variety of birds.

Cultural Exploration in Bissau: The capital, Bissau, is a vibrant city with bustling markets, colonial buildings and historic landmarks like the Bissau Fortress and the Bissau National Museum.

You can discover local crafts, traditional fabrics and taste local flavors.

gastronomy

Guinea-Bissau's cuisine is a delicious blend of African and Portuguese flavors, with an abundance of fresh produce.

Here are some typical dishes to discover

Fish rice: A very popular dish, often accompanied by spicy sauces made with tomatoes, onions and peppers.

Fish stew: A stew made with fresh fish, vegetables and local spices, typical of the coastal region.

Funge: A dish made from cassava flour, often served with soups or meat sauces.

Seafood: As Guinea-Bissau is a coastal country, seafood is delicious and abundant, especially crabs, shrimps and grilled fish.

Drinks

Cachaça (an alcoholic drink made from sugarcane) is commonly consumed, as are fresh juices of exotic fruits such as mango, papaya or pineapple.

Time difference

Guinea-Bissau is located in the GMT time zone (UTC 0), the same as that of France in winter.

In summer, the time difference is 1 hour, because France switches to summer time (GMT 1).

Why visit Guinea-Bissau?

Guinea-Bissau is an ideal destination for travelers in search of nature, tranquility and authenticity.

Its unspoiled beaches, paradise islands and tropical forests make it the perfect place for an adventure in the heart of West Africa.

Add to this the hospitality of its people, the richness of its culture and its tasty gastronomy, and you get an unforgettable experience, far from the beaten track.

Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff or a fan of relaxing on isolated beaches, Guinea-Bissau will offer you a memorable and unusual stay. 🌍✨