Things To Do
in Guinea-Bissau
Guinea-Bissau is a small West African nation famed for its intricate coastline, mangrove-fringed rivers, and a mosaic of islands. It sits on the Atlantic with a network of creeks and a vibrant, maritime culture shaped by fishing communities. The capital, Bissau, is compact and welcoming, serving as a gateway to both coastal towns and the Bijagos archipelago.
The country blends Portuguese influence with strong local traditions, evident in markets, music, and village life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Osvaldo Vieira International Airport and settle into your hotel. Spend the morning relaxing and unwinding from your journey while getting familiar with your surroundings. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local café, tasting fresh fruits and bread from the region.
Head to the Bissau City Center to explore the vibrant atmosphere filled with local marketplaces and shops. Visit the Fortaleza de Bissau, a historic fort with beautiful views of the harbor and an insight into the country's colonial past. Immerse yourself in the local culture with a guided city tour, learning about the history and significance of various landmarks.
Dine at a waterfront restaurant, savoring delicious seafood dishes while watching the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the beach, where you can interact with locals and listen to live music from nearby bars. Wind down your day with a refreshing drink, soaking in the lively ambiance of the city.
Take an early morning boat trip to the Bijagós Archipelago, known for its stunning natural beauty and biodiversity. As you travel to the islands, admire lush landscapes dotted with mangroves and pristine beaches. Enjoy breakfast onboard, featuring local pastries and fresh fruit, while soaking in the scenic views.
Once on the islands, explore the vibrant cultures of the Bijagós people, visiting traditional villages and engaging with local artisans. Participate in activities such as fishing, canoeing, or simply relaxing on the unspoiled beaches. Have a picnic lunch on a secluded beach, surrounded by crystal-clear waters and nature’s tranquility.
Return to the main island and prepare for an evening filled with cultural experiences. Attend a traditional dance performance that showcases the vibrant music and rhythms of the Bijagós culture. End the day with a beach bonfire, sharing stories and enjoying local delicacies under the starry sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 in mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| ☕Coffee/soft drink | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within city | $2-6 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel night | $20-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming people and rich cultural heritage
- Stunning coastal landscapes and biodiversity around the Bijagos islands
- Limited infrastructure outside major towns and recurring travel delays
- Healthcare facilities are concentrated in Bissau; remote areas can be challenging to access
- "Olá" - Hello
- "Bom dia" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Obrigado/Obrigada" - Thank you
- "Quanto custa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Você fala inglês?" - Do you speak English?
- "Onde fica o banheiro?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Não falo bem o português" - I don't speak Portuguese well
Places to Visit in Guinea-Bissau
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful boats, reflections on calm waters, and fishermen starting their day make this a quintessential coastal photo moment.
Vibrant market scenes, textures, and faces capturing daily rhythms; best in early morning light.
Architectural contrasts between pastel colonial buildings and the active riverfront provide compelling urban photography.
Food in Guinea-Bissau
Guinea-Bissau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rice cooked with fresh locally caught fish, peppers, and a hint of coconut milk; a coastal staple often enjoyed with beans or cassava.
Must-Try!
Hearty fish soup made with tomatoes, onions, and cassava, usually served with rice and a squeeze of lime.
A simple, satisfying mix of beans and rice, sometimes prepared with palm oil and greens; common comfort food in towns and villages.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find fresh fish, cassava, fruit, and street snacks; great for observing daily life and tasting simple bites.
Casual stalls near the harbor offering grilled fish, fried plantains, yams, and seasonal coconuts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a friendly handshake; use the right hand for exchanges and conversations. Dress modestly in public and ask before taking photos of people or homes.
Family and elders are respected; avoid loud public displays of affection and unannounced visits to homes; bargaining is common in markets but done with courtesy.
Safety
Tipping in Guinea-Bissau
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated for good service, typically around 5-10% in restaurants or rounding up at casual bars. Some places may include a service charge; check your bill.
Cash (West African CFA franc, XOF) is the most widely accepted payment method. Card payments are not universal, especially in markets and smaller eateries; carry small notes and coins for tips and transit.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
November to April brings cooler evenings, plenty of sun, and lower humidity. Great for walking tours and island day trips, but nights can still be warm.
May to October brings heavy tropical rain and high humidity. Expect lush landscapes, but plan indoor options for downpours and carry rain gear and insect repellent.
Guinea-Bissau at Night
Hiking in Guinea-Bissau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible by boat from the mainland; mangroves, beaches, and wildlife highlights offer rewarding coastal hiking and exploration opportunities.
Seasonal hikes around pristine beaches and small villages; best with a local guide for safe navigation and cultural context.
Airports
How to reach Guinea-Bissau by plane.
Main international gateway for Guinea-Bissau, located near the capital and serving regional flights.
Regional hub offering connections to West Africa; not far by air and accessible via short flights or overland routes.
Major regional hub with international connections; useful for travelers combining Guinea-Bissau with Senegal.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
One of the largest ethnic groups, spread across rural areas and coastal towns, with a rich cultural heritage and distinctive music and dance.
Widespread across West Africa, including Guinea-Bissau, contributing to linguistic and cultural diversity.
Key groups in the region, each with unique languages and traditions, living in both towns and rural villages.
An important coastal community known for trade and close ties to the sea-based economy.
People from the Bijagos Archipelago, with distinct customs and island-based communities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
By far the most popular sport; local matches and community leagues are common in towns and cities.
Growing presence in urban areas with local teams and casual street courts.
Executed in festivals and community gatherings, reflecting local heritage.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options are available with bean stews, cassava, plantains, and rice. Ask for no fish-based broths and communicate dietary needs in Portuguese or Krio (Creole).
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Guinea-Bissau.