Overview

Guinea-Bissau, also known as the Republic of Guinea-Bissau, is a part of Western Africa on the Atlantic coast between Senegal and Guinea. The country is a low-lying coastal region of swamps, rain forests, and mangrove-covered wetlands, with about 25 islands off the coast. The Bijagos archipelago extends 30 miles (48 km) out into the sea. Though, Portuguese, Crioulo and other African languages are widely spoken here, Portuguese is its official language. Crioulo is a mix of medieval Portuguese and local words. Most ethnic groups speak their own language.

Once hailed as a potential model for African development, Guinea-Bissau is now one of the poorest countries in the world. It depends mainly on farming and fishing, and the country now ranks fifth in cashew production. The country's vital cashew nut crop provides a modest living for most of Guinea-Bissau's farmers and is the main source of foreign exchange.

Activities & Attractions

Many people frequent Guinea-Bissau for its sandy beaches and disarmingly friendly people. The Poilão National Marine Park and Orango Islands National Park are two popular places that attract visitors. Orango Islands National Park is home to rare saltwater species of hippo and crocodile. It is also the burial site of the Bijagós kings and queens.

The Sacred Forests let one disappear into the dense jungle around Catió. The Jemberem that provides a habitat for the African chimpanzee also attracts many visitors. The Saltinho Waterfall is yet another interesting place to visit and enjoy. The Bijagós islands are a must visit in this country. The swaying palms, cooling breeze, and white sand beaches will make you linger awhile there

In Bissau, the wide mango-shaded streets, attractive buildings and lively cafes add charm to the capital city. Traveling northeast from Bissau, the flat, wet coastal regions give way to drier and hillier land that serves as the transition into the Sahel. There is little to detain the traveler, although the forests and rivers are popular with hunters and fishermen. Guinea-Bissau experiences rains from June to October and is especially humid in the months before the rains in April and May. Hence, the best time to visit is from late November to February, when conditions are dry and relatively cool.

Lodging

While there are many good hotels, the most amazing hotels are on the Bijagos islands. Other hotels that attract guests are Pensao Central, Hotel Malaika, Gabu, Hotel Visiom, Orango Parque Hotel and Residencial Djaraama.

Transportation

Boats, cars, taxis and motorcycles are the commonly used modes of transportation in Guinea-Bissau. However, a drive in Canoas would be enjoyable. Bissau, Buba, Cacheu, and Farim are some important ports and terminals in Guinea-Bissau. Most of the towns are accessible by ships or riverboats. You can also hire speedboats to travel to other islands. Bush taxis and mini buses take you almost anywhere in the country. You can also take the local toca-toca or hire taxis to travel around the country.