Things To Do
in Guinea-Bissau
Guinea-Bissau is a small country located in West Africa, known for its diverse culture which is a blend of African, Portuguese, and Creole influences, reflecting in its languages, music, and traditions. It gained independence from Portugal in 1974, but has since experienced political instability, including several coups, making its democratic development challenging.
The country's economy is largely based on agriculture and fishing, with cashew nuts being its major export, yet it remains one of the world’s poorest countries.
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Obrigado" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Desculpe" - Sorry
- "Tchau" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day visiting the bustling markets of Bissau, where you can experience local life and shop for unique souvenirs. Don't miss trying a traditional breakfast dish like 'pão de milho'.
After lunch, take a guided tour of the Presidential Palace and the National Museum to learn about the country's history and culture. Explore the vibrant streets and soak in the atmosphere.
Relax at a seaside restaurant, enjoying fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the ocean. The lively nightlife in Bissau offers various local music and dance options.
Catch a ferry to the Bijagós Archipelago and spend your morning on the beautiful islands. Don't forget to bring your snorkeling gear to explore the rich marine life.
Enjoy a picnic lunch on the shores of one of the pristine beaches. Visit local villages to learn about the unique culture of the Bijagós people.
Return to your accommodations and savor a traditional Bijagós dinner. The evening can be spent around a bonfire, enjoying stories from the locals.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural diversity, with numerous ethnic groups and languages.
- Beautiful natural landscapes, including beaches and national parks.
- Guinea-Bissau's vibrant music and art scene reflects its cultural heritage.
- The country has a strategic position for fishing and agriculture.
- Political instability, with a history of coups and government changes.
- Limited infrastructure and healthcare facilities.
- Economy largely dependent on cashew nuts and agriculture, making it vulnerable.
- Challenges with corruption and governance impact development.
Best Activities in Guinea-Bissau
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy the pristine beaches and hunt for seashells, driftwood, and other treasures.
Explore the diverse bird species in the Bijagos Archipelago and other natural habitats in Guinea-Bissau.
Engage in traditional fishing with local fishermen or try your luck at catching fish in the coastal waters.
Tours
Uncover the best of Guinea-Bissau with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Guinea-Bissau
Visit one of these nice places.
Offering stunning beaches, wildlife, and traditional culture for unique photo opportunities.
With its colonial architecture and picturesque streets, it's a great location for capturing the country's history and charm.
Photographers can capture the unique landscapes and local life at these salt flats, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Food in Guinea-Bissau
Guinea-Bissau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty peanut and chicken stew, often served with rice, reflecting the West African influence. Can be found at local restaurants and informal eateries across the country.
Must-Try!
A spicy and fragrant rice dish with tomatoes and often featuring seafood or chicken. Widely available at eateries and casual dining spots throughout Guinea-Bissau.
Guinea-Bissau style shrimp, typically cooked in a delectable coconut milk sauce and served with rice. Widely popular and readily found at coastal restaurants and local fish markets.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Guinea-Bissau better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the largest and most vibrant markets in Bissau, offering an array of fresh produce, spices, and local street food. Visitors can savor grilled fish, fried plantains, and flavorful stews while exploring the bustling market atmosphere.
In the island town of Bolama, the street food stalls offer a variety of grilled seafood, yassa (marinated fish or chicken), and fritters made from cassava and other local ingredients. A must-visit for authentic, casual dining experiences.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Guinea-Bissau, it is important to greet people with a handshake and a warm smile, especially when meeting someone for the first time.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Guinea-Bissau. It is customary to show deference to older individuals and seek their advice and guidance.
During conversations, it is polite to listen actively and avoid interrupting others. It is also customary to use titles and formal language when addressing people, particularly in formal settings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Guinea-Bissau with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Guinea-Bissau
Ensure a smooth experience
In Guinea-Bissau, tipping is not widely practiced and is not customary in most establishments. However, in some upscale hotels and restaurants, a service charge may be included in the bill. It is not obligatory to tip beyond this charge.
Cash is the primary mode of payment in Guinea-Bissau, especially in rural areas. Credit and debit cards are not widely accepted, and it's advisable to carry enough cash for expenses. It's also common for vendors at local markets to only accept cash.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Guinea-Bissau.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Guinea-Bissau with warm and sunny weather, making it perfect for outdoor activities and beach visits. Wildlife spotting is also more promising during this time.
Expect heavy rainfall, lush green landscapes, and the possibility of encountering some road closures due to flooding. However, this season offers a unique opportunity to witness the country's natural beauty in full bloom.
Guinea-Bissau at Night
Hiking in Guinea-Bissau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A unique national park featuring mangroves, diverse wildlife, and scenic views ideal for hiking and exploring.
A beautiful park with rich biodiversity, offering trails that allow for hiking and birdwatching among stunning lagoons.
Known for its beautiful beaches and natural reserves, Bubaque Island offers several hiking trails through lush landscapes.
A park that combines river ecosystems and forested areas, ideal for hiking enthusiasts looking to explore the natural beauty.
A less known hiking spot with challenging terrains and panoramic views, ideal for adventurous hikers looking for a unique experience.
Airports
How to reach Guinea-Bissau by plane.
The main airport serving Bissau, the capital of Guinea-Bissau.
The primary airport serving Lomé, the capital of Togo. It serves as a hub for regional flights.
The main international airport serving Dakar, the capital of Senegal. It's a major hub for West Africa.
The main international airport serving Accra, the capital of Ghana, and a key transit point in West Africa.
The main airport serving Banjul, the capital of The Gambia, located relatively close to Guinea-Bissau.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Balanta are the largest ethnic group in Guinea-Bissau, primarily residing in the central and southern regions of the country.
The Fula people are one of the significant ethnic groups, primarily involved in trade and pastoralism.
The Manjacos are an important group found mainly in the western regions and are known for their rich cultural practices.
The Pepel people inhabit coastal areas and are known for fishing and agriculture.
The Bijago people primarily reside on the Bijagos Archipelago and have a distinct cultural identity.
The Mandinga group is known for their historical ties to trade and Islamic culture.
This category includes smaller ethnic groups like the Biafada, too, which collectively represent the diverse cultural mosaic of the country.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is by far the most popular sport in Guinea-Bissau, with a strong following and national teams that participate in regional tournaments.
Basketball is gaining popularity, particularly among the youth, with local leagues and community programs fostering interest.
Volleyball is played recreationally in coastal areas and has a growing number of enthusiasts in the country.
Athletics, particularly running, features prominently during local and national competitions, showcasing talented athletes.
Taekwondo has a presence in Guinea-Bissau, with clubs and associations promoting martial arts training and competitions.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat-based dishes are prevalent, many restaurants and cafes in Guinea-Bissau offer vegetarian options such as plantain-based stews, rice dishes, and grilled vegetables. It's advisable to communicate specific preferences to ensure suitable choices.
Vegan dining options may be limited, but some establishments can accommodate by preparing vegetable-centric meals and adapting traditional recipes. Seeking recommendations from locals or inquiring in advance is beneficial for finding suitable vegan food.
Gluten-free selections may be less widespread, as wheat-based products are common. However, many local dishes feature rice as a staple, and seafood and fresh produce are abundant. Communicating dietary needs with dining establishments can aid in finding suitable gluten-free options.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Guinea-Bissau.