Guinea-Bissau is an inconspicuous speck in the western corner of West Africa and with an area of 36 125 km². It has a population of just 1.6 million and Bissau is its capital. The country gained independence from Portuguese rule in 1974 and, as a colonial legacy, the official language is Portuguese. English is poorly spoken. The people make their living from agriculture. Tourism is almost non-existent.
Climate: Guinea-Bissau has a tropical climate. The rainy season lasts from June to November, while the rest of the year is dry. During the rainy season, the coastal areas receive more rainfall than the interior. April and May are the hottest months, with temperatures reaching up to 35 degrees Celsius.
Security: Guinea-Bissau is a safe country to visit, but in large crowds it's a good idea to beware of pickpockets.
Visa: With the exception of some African nationalities, visas are required for everyone. It is issued on arrival at Bissau airport, but if you plan to combine your trip with a visit to another West African country, a visa can also be obtained quickly and easily from one of Guinea-Bissau's neighbouring countries. Please note that visa policies and prices are subject to change without notice. The passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival.
Currency: Guinea-Bissau uses the West African CFA franc (XOF) as its currency, which is pegged to the euro. One euro is worth around 656 francs. You should take euro banknotes with you and exchange them on arrival or withdraw cash from an ATM.
Vaccinations and malaria: Guinea-Bissau requires proof of a yellow fever vaccination. In addition, hepatitis a and b vaccinations are recommended. Please ensure that your basic vaccinations are up to date. Malaria is prevalent throughout the year, so anti-malaria medication is recommended.
Travel insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended.
