1. Entry Requirements & Visas

Passport and visa rules

Most foreign nationals need a visa to enter Guinea-Bissau. Visa rules depend on nationality, passport type, entry point and purpose of travel. Arrange a visa through a Guinea-Bissau embassy or consulate before travel whenever possible, particularly if entering overland.

• Travel with a passport valid for at least six months beyond your expected departure date.
• Ensure your passport has at least one completely blank page for visa and entry stamps.
• Most visitors need a tourist visa before travelling.
• Visa on arrival may be available at Osvaldo Vieira International Airport in Bissau for some nationalities.
• Do not assume a visa can be obtained at a land border.
• Carry onward or return travel proof, accommodation details and sufficient funds.
• Do not overstay the visa or entry period granted.

Visa-on-arrival planning

If you are eligible to obtain a visa on arrival at Bissau airport, carry sufficient euro cash, proof of onward travel and confirmed accommodation details. Procedures can change, so arranging a visa in advance remains the safest option wherever possible.

• Confirm visa-on-arrival availability with your airline before departure.
• Carry euro cash for possible airport visa fees.
• Do not rely on visa on arrival if entering by land or boat.
• Keep local host, hotel or tour-operator contact details accessible.
• Print all bookings, visa approval documents and return-flight confirmation.

Yellow fever certificate

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for all arrivals. Carry the original International Certificate of Vaccination in hand luggage. Consult a travel-health clinic about additional vaccinations including malaria, typhoid, meningitis and hepatitis protection.

Children travelling to Guinea-Bissau

Children travelling with one parent, a guardian or without parents may need a full birth certificate, signed parental-consent letter, passport copies and legal-custody documents. Confirm current airline and immigration requirements before travel.

Documents to carry

• Passport valid for at least six months beyond intended departure.
• Valid visa obtained in advance, or confirmed eligibility and cash for airport visa on arrival.
• Original yellow fever vaccination certificate.
• Return or onward ticket.
• Accommodation booking, local host address or tour-operator itinerary.
• Travel medical insurance with evacuation and repatriation cover.
• International driving permit and vehicle documents if driving.
• Documents for minors where applicable.
• Printed and encrypted digital copies of all key documents.

Customs and restricted items

• Do not bring illegal drugs, weapons, ammunition or prohibited substances.
• Carry prescription medication in original packaging with a French, Portuguese or English doctor’s letter.
• Do not export protected wildlife products, turtles, ivory, plants, timber, shells or cultural artefacts without permits.
• Check drone import, filming and photography permissions before bringing equipment.
• Do not photograph police, military sites, airports, government buildings or security installations.
• Follow current customs rules for cash, food, animal products and biological materials.

2. Health, Vaccinations & Insurance

Extremely limited medical care

Guinea-Bissau has limited emergency response and medical facilities. Serious medical cases may require evacuation to Senegal, Portugal or another regional medical hub. Medical care is especially limited outside Bissau and on the Bijagós Islands.

• Do not travel without comprehensive international medical and evacuation insurance.
• Confirm in writing that insurance covers Guinea-Bissau and evacuation to a regional medical hub.
• Carry all regular medication plus generous reserve supplies.
• Bring a robust first-aid kit, oral rehydration salts, wound-care supplies and essential medical items.
• Keep allergies, medical history, blood type and insurance contacts offline.
• Identify available private clinics in Bissau before travelling to the islands or interior.

Malaria and infectious disease

Malaria risk is high throughout Guinea-Bissau. The country also has a risk of Zika transmission. Other health concerns can include yellow fever, typhoid, hepatitis, meningitis, cholera, dengue and diarrhoeal disease.

• Consult a travel-health clinician about malaria-prevention medication before travel.
• Use effective insect repellent from dusk to dawn.
• Wear long sleeves and trousers in the evening where practical.
• Use mosquito nets, screens or air-conditioned accommodation when available.
• Pregnant travellers or those planning pregnancy should seek specialist advice because of Zika risk.
• Seek urgent medical care for fever, rash, severe headache, dehydration or unusual fatigue.

Water, food and tropical health

• Drink sealed bottled, boiled or reliably filtered water only.
• Choose freshly cooked food served hot.
• Avoid raw salads, uncertain ice, unpeeled fruit and food from unreliable sources.
• Carry water and electrolyte supplies during hot weather, road travel and island transfers.
• Use sun protection and avoid extended outdoor exposure during peak heat.
• Seek medical care quickly for persistent diarrhoea, fever or signs of dehydration.

Travel insurance

Comprehensive insurance should include emergency treatment, medical evacuation, repatriation, road accidents, boat travel, island transfers, fishing, wildlife activities and security assistance where appropriate. Standard travel insurance may be insufficient given the limited availability of medical care.

• Confirm evacuation cover from the Bijagós Islands and remote areas.
• Check boat, fishing, diving and nature-activity exclusions.
• Ensure cover includes treatment in a third country if required.
• Save the insurer’s 24-hour emergency-assistance number offline.

3. Safety & Travel Advice

General safety

Guinea-Bissau’s security situation is currently relatively calm, but sudden deterioration cannot be ruled out. Crime, limited state infrastructure, poor emergency services, weak policing capacity and political uncertainty require a cautious approach.

• Use hotel safes and keep cash, passports, cards and electronics secure.
• Do not display expensive phones, cameras, watches or jewellery.
• Use trusted local drivers, hotel transfers and established guides.
• Avoid walking alone after dark in Bissau and other towns.
• Do not leave valuables visible in parked vehicles or boats.
• Use ATMs only at banks or secure locations where possible.

Political instability and demonstrations

Guinea-Bissau has a history of political instability. Demonstrations, security operations and sudden changes to the political situation can occur. Avoid public gatherings, political meetings, government sites and locations with a heavy security-force presence.

• Monitor local news, hotel advice and embassy alerts.
• Avoid demonstrations, rallies, crowds and political events.
• Do not photograph police, military personnel, checkpoints or protests.
• Keep travel plans flexible during elections or periods of political tension.
• Do not discuss sensitive political issues publicly.

Border areas

Avoid non-essential travel within 20 km of the border with Senegal, including the road from São Domingos to Mpack. Do not make independent trips to border zones without current professional or official advice.

• Do not use the São Domingos–Mpack road without a current security assessment.
• Do not attempt informal or unplanned border crossings.
• Confirm border opening hours, visa rules and local conditions before any essential crossing.
• Use official posts and travel in daylight only.

Road and sea safety

Roads outside Bissau can be poor, particularly during the rainy season. Travel after dark is dangerous because of poor lighting, animals, broken-down vehicles, crime and lack of reliable emergency support. Island transport is weather-dependent and safety standards vary.

• Drive on the right.
• Avoid road travel after dark outside Bissau.
• Use experienced drivers and suitable vehicles for rural routes.
• Carry water, fuel, cash, spare tyres, first aid and power bank.
• Use reputable inter-island boat operators only.
• Wear life jackets whenever available and do not board overloaded boats.

Tourism infrastructure

Organised tourism is very limited outside specialist local arrangements. Travel outside Bissau should be carefully planned, with reliable guides, weather contingencies, emergency contacts and appropriate vehicle or boat support.

• Use trusted, established local tour operators for Bijagós or interior travel.
• Ask about emergency plans, communications, boats, guides and weather contingencies before booking.
• Do not assume formal safety regulation, rescue systems or medical support are in place.
• Build buffer days into every island, road and flight itinerary.

Official travel advice

• U.S. travel advisory for Guinea-Bissau
• UK travel advice for Guinea-Bissau
• Canada travel advice for Guinea-Bissau
• Australia travel advice for Guinea-Bissau
• Germany travel advice for Guinea-Bissau
• Switzerland travel advice for Guinea-Bissau

4. Emergency Contacts

Emergency numbers

• General emergency number: 112
• Police: 117
• Medical assistance: 119 or 1313
• Firefighters: 118 or 1313
• Police alternative: 117 or 112
• Ambulance alternative: 112, subject to availability.

Emergency services can be unreliable or unavailable, particularly outside Bissau. Do not rely only on public numbers; maintain direct contacts for your hotel, guide, boat operator, driver, insurer and regional embassy.

Important visitor contacts

• U.S. Bissau Liaison Office: +245 325 6382.
• U.S. Embassy Dakar: +221 33 879 4000.
• U.S. Embassy Dakar after-hours emergency: +221 33 879 4444.
• German Liaison Office Bissau: +245 95 595 67 08.
• Embassy of Canada in Dakar: +221 33 889 4749.

Emergency response checklist

• Call 112, 117, 118 or 119 as appropriate, but contact your insurer and local support in parallel.
• Remain in a secure location unless a trusted local professional advises otherwise.
• For medical emergencies, contact your insurer and the best available facility directly.
• Do not attempt risky road or boat travel after dark to seek treatment.
• Keep written medical information, insurance details and emergency contacts with your passport.
• Request police documentation after serious theft, assault or accident when safe to do so.

5. Embassies & Consular Help

Limited consular presence

Consular representation in Guinea-Bissau is limited. Many countries provide assistance through regional embassies in Dakar, Senegal, Lisbon, Portugal, Abuja, Nigeria or elsewhere. Confirm the responsible mission for your nationality before travel.

U.S. support

• U.S. Embassy Dakar: Route des Almadies, Dakar, Senegal.
• Telephone: +221 33 879 4000.
• After-hours emergency: +221 33 879 4444.
• Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
• U.S. Bissau Liaison Office: Edifício SITEC, Rua José Carlos Schwarz 245, Bairro d’Ajuda, Bissau.
• Liaison Office telephone: +245 325 6382.

Useful consular links

• Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Guinea-Bissau
• U.S. Embassy Dakar
• British Embassy Dakar
• German Embassy Dakar
• Austrian Embassy Dakar
• Swiss Embassy Dakar
• Embassy of Canada in Dakar

Canadian support

Canada has no resident office in Guinea-Bissau. Canadian citizens are supported by the Embassy of Canada in Dakar, Senegal. Confirm all contact information and current consular services directly before travel.

6. Country, Culture & Etiquette

Country overview

Guinea-Bissau lies on the Atlantic coast of West Africa and borders Senegal and Guinea. The country includes mainland rivers, mangroves, rice fields, tropical forest, coastal lagoons and the Bijagós Archipelago, a group of more than 80 islands and islets.

Its history includes Portuguese colonial rule, a struggle for independence, political instability and the influence of many communities including Balanta, Fula, Mandinka, Manjaco, Papel, Bijagó, Felupe and others. Cashew farming, fishing, rice cultivation and remittances are important parts of the economy.

Languages, religion and culture

• Official language: Portuguese.
• Main everyday lingua franca: Guinea-Bissau Creole / Kriol.
• Other languages: Balanta, Fula, Mandinka, Manjaco, Papel and many others.
• French: Useful near Senegal and in regional diplomatic settings.
• Religion: Islam, Christianity and traditional beliefs are all important.
• Culture: Music, dance, oral history, cashew wine, traditional masks, fishing and island customs are central.

Respectful behaviour

• Greet people politely before starting conversation, asking for help or making a purchase.
• Dress modestly in towns, villages and religious areas.
• Ask permission before photographing people, homes, markets, ceremonies or sacred places.
• Respect local island customs and traditional authorities in the Bijagós.
• Do not photograph police, military personnel, government buildings or security operations.
• Avoid public discussion of political instability, security forces or sensitive regional issues.

7. Climate, Weather & Clothing

Climate

Guinea-Bissau has a tropical climate with a long rainy season and a dry season influenced by Harmattan winds. Temperatures remain warm throughout the year, while rain, humidity and road conditions vary sharply by season.

Seasonal patterns

• Dry season: Roughly November to May, usually easier for overland and island travel.
• Rainy season: Generally June to October, with heavy rain, flooding and difficult rural roads.
• Harmattan period: Dry, dusty winds may affect air quality and visibility during part of the dry season.
• Bijagós travel: Sea conditions vary by wind, tides and rainfall.
• Coastal conditions: Heat, humidity and tropical rain can affect travel year-round.

What to pack

• Lightweight, breathable clothing for heat and humidity.
• Long sleeves and trousers for evening mosquito protection.
• Rain jacket, poncho and waterproof bags during the wet season.
• Sturdy shoes for muddy roads, mangrove trails and uneven streets.
• Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent and refillable water bottle.
• Modest clothing for towns, villages and religious places.

Environmental hazards

• Heavy rain can flood roads and delay or stop rural transport.
• Heat and humidity can cause dehydration and exhaustion.
• Strong tides, currents and sea conditions can make island crossings dangerous.
• Mosquito exposure increases during and after the rainy season.
• Remote islands and rural areas may have limited communications, fuel, water and medical access.

8. Language, SIM Cards & Internet

Languages

• Portuguese: Official language used in government and formal communication.
• Guinea-Bissau Creole / Kriol: Most widely spoken everyday language.
• Local languages: Balanta, Fula, Mandinka, Manjaco, Papel and many others.
• French: Useful in some regional and cross-border contexts.
• English: Limited outside international organisations and some hotels.

Useful Portuguese and Kriol phrases

• Hello in Portuguese: Olá / Bom dia
• Thank you in Portuguese: Obrigado for a man / Obrigada for a woman
• Please in Portuguese: Por favor
• Hello in Kriol: Nô sta di bon?
• Thank you in Kriol: Obrigadu
• Yes: Sim
• No: Não
• How much is this? Kuantu ki e custa?
• I need help: N’precisa di ajuda.

Mobile data and connectivity

Mobile coverage is strongest in Bissau and larger towns. It can be weak or unavailable in rural areas, mangroves, remote islands and on boat routes. Internet access may be slow, costly or unreliable.

• Major providers include Orange Guinea-Bissau and MTN Guinea-Bissau.
• Buy local SIM cards from official sellers and carry identification for registration.
• Download offline maps, hotel contacts, boat schedules and insurance details before remote travel.
• Carry a power bank, waterproof pouch and spare charging cable.
• Do not rely on mobile service as your only emergency tool on the islands or in rural areas.

9. Electricity & Plug Types

Power supply

• Voltage: 220 V.
• Frequency: 50 Hz.
• Plug types: Type C and Type F, using two round pins.

Power planning

• Travellers from continental Europe can often use compatible plugs.
• Travellers from the United Kingdom, North America, Australia and other regions generally need an adapter.
• Bring a universal adapter, power bank, spare cable and torch.
• Power supply can be unreliable, especially outside Bissau.
• Remote accommodation may rely on generators or solar systems with limited charging hours.
• Most phones and laptops support 100–240 V; check charger labels.

10. Money, Cards & Costs

Currency

Guinea-Bissau uses the West African CFA franc (XOF), which is shared with several West African countries and pegged to the euro. Cash is essential for nearly all daily spending, especially outside Bissau.

Check the current exchange rate: XE Currency Converter for XOF.

Cards, ATMs and cash

• International card acceptance is very limited.
• Cash is needed for transport, food, markets, tips and island travel.
• ATMs may be limited or unreliable, mostly concentrated in Bissau.
• Carry sufficient euro cash and exchange it at banks or reliable services.
• Keep emergency cash separate from your day-to-day spending money.
• Do not rely on cards for boats, rural lodging or remote services.

Costs

Local food and basic accommodation can be inexpensive, but Guinea-Bissau can be costly to visit responsibly because transport is limited, remote island logistics are complex and quality medical or emergency support is scarce. Budget for extra accommodation, weather delays, boat charters and contingency travel.

Tipping

• Tipping is appreciated but generally modest.
• Small tips can be offered to drivers, guides, porters, hotel staff and boat crews for good service.
• Agree prices before taxi, boat or guide services begin.
• Keep small XOF notes for local purchases and tips.

11. Arrival & Transport

Main airport

Osvaldo Vieira International Airport (OXB) is Guinea-Bissau’s main international gateway. It is located near Bissau and is the main place where eligible travellers may obtain visas on arrival.

• Airport code: OXB.
• Location: Near Bissau.
• Arrival: Arrange a trusted hotel or private-driver transfer before landing.
• Visa: Confirm in advance whether you are eligible for airport visa on arrival.
• Practical planning: Keep passport, visa cash, yellow-fever certificate, onward ticket and accommodation proof ready.

Road travel

Roads outside Bissau can be poor, especially during the rainy season. Overland travel is slow, can be affected by flooding and requires careful planning. Private drivers are generally safer and more practical than self-driving.

• Drive on the right.
• Avoid road travel after dark.
• Use experienced local drivers and suitable vehicles for rural routes.
• Use a 4x4 for wet-season, interior and rough-road travel.
• Carry water, fuel, cash, first aid, spare tyre, power bank and food.
• Avoid the Senegal border zone without current professional advice.

Bijagós Islands transport

The Bijagós Archipelago is reached mainly by boats or charter arrangements from Bissau. Transfers are affected by tides, weather, season, vessel maintenance and limited infrastructure. Do not schedule a tight international departure immediately after an island crossing.

• Use established operators recommended by reputable accommodation or conservation groups.
• Confirm the boat, captain, route, life jackets and weather contingency before paying.
• Do not board overloaded boats or travel in unsafe sea conditions.
• Keep medication, passport and valuables in waterproof hand luggage.
• Build at least one buffer day around major boat connections where possible.

Useful transport links

• Google Maps: Guinea-Bissau
• ASECNA Aviation Information
• Regional Airline Information

12. Accommodation & Practical Planning

Accommodation types

• City hotels: Mainly concentrated in Bissau.
• Business hotels: Best option for backup power, water, airport transfers and controlled access.
• Guesthouses: Smaller locally run accommodation in Bissau and some regional towns.
• Island eco-lodges: Limited stays in the Bijagós, generally reached by arranged boat transfer.
• Basic rural accommodation: May have limited water, electricity, Wi-Fi and medical access.

Recommended bases

• Bissau: Main arrival point, airport, services, markets, government and accommodation options.
• Bubaque: Main Bijagós island base, local culture and onward island connections.
• Orango National Park: Mangroves, wildlife and marine landscapes, requiring specialist arrangements.
• Bolama: Former colonial capital with historic architecture and island access.
• Cacheu: River town with colonial history and mangrove landscapes.
• Varela: Northern coast beaches, subject to route and border-area assessment.

Practical planning

• Book island transport, guides and limited accommodation far in advance.
• Confirm power, water, food, Wi-Fi, mosquito protection and card-payment availability before remote stays.
• Carry cash, medicine, drinking water, snacks, insect repellent and rain gear before leaving Bissau.
• Arrange airport transfers before arrival, especially for evening flights.
• Build significant time buffers around rain, road conditions, boats and flights.
• Use locally trusted contacts and do not make spontaneous interior or island travel decisions.

Shopping and souvenirs

• Bandim Market, Bissau: Main market for food, textiles, crafts and local daily life.
• Local fabrics: West African prints and traditional clothing.
• Cashew products: Cashews and related local products are important exports.
• Bijagós crafts: Baskets, carvings and handmade items; buy respectfully and directly from artisans where possible.
• Ethical shopping: Do not buy wildlife products, coral, turtle shell, protected wood or artefacts of uncertain origin.

13. Food, Drink & Cuisine

Guinea-Bissau food culture

Guinea-Bissau cuisine blends West African, Portuguese, coastal and island influences. Rice, fish, shellfish, cassava, peanuts, palm oil, chilli, tropical fruit and cashews are central ingredients. Food can vary substantially between Bissau, mainland villages and the islands.

Typical dishes

• Caldo de mancarra: Peanut-based fish or meat stew.
• Jollof-style rice: Tomato and spice rice served with fish, chicken or meat.
• Grilled fish: Fresh Atlantic and river fish prepared simply with rice or cassava.
• Oyster and seafood dishes: Common in mangrove and coastal communities.
• Chabéu: Cassava or rice-based dishes with fish or sauce.
• Plantain and cassava: Staple accompaniments in many meals.
• Chicken and rice: Common home-style and restaurant meal.

Drinks and snacks

• Fresh mango, pineapple, hibiscus and ginger drinks.
• Cashew juice and cashew-based products.
• Local beer and soft drinks in licensed venues.
• Roasted cashews, peanuts, fruit and fried plantain snacks.
• Tea and coffee in urban hotels and cafés.

Food hygiene and dietary needs

• Choose freshly cooked food served hot from established or busy venues.
• Drink only bottled, boiled or reliably treated water.
• Ask about peanuts, fish, shellfish, palm oil, dairy and meat stock if you have allergies.
• Vegetarian and vegan food may require advance planning, particularly on the islands.
• Carry snacks for long road trips and boat transfers.
• Use extra caution with raw seafood, ice and unwashed produce.

14. Time Zone & Public Holidays

Time zone

• Time zone: Greenwich Mean Time, UTC+0.
• Daylight saving time: Guinea-Bissau does not observe daylight saving time.
• Central Europe: Guinea-Bissau is one hour behind in Central European winter and two hours behind during Central European Summer Time.
• United Kingdom: Guinea-Bissau is the same time in UK winter and one hour behind during British Summer Time.

Important public holidays

• New Year’s Day: 1 January.
• Heroes’ Day: 20 January.
• International Women’s Day: 8 March.
• Labour Day: 1 May.
• Independence Day: 24 September.
• Christmas Day: 25 December.
• Carnival: Date varies annually, generally before Lent.
• Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha: Dates vary according to the Islamic calendar.

Public holidays, Carnival, religious festivals, political events, rain and sea conditions can affect transport, government services, island logistics and accommodation availability.

15. Attractions & Highlights

Bissau and mainland heritage

• Bissau Velho: Old colonial quarter with Portuguese-era buildings and city history.
• Fortaleza de São José da Amura: Historic fort in Bissau and memorial site linked to independence history.
• Bandim Market: Main city market, food, textiles, crafts and local life.
• Cacheu: Historic river town connected to Portuguese colonial and Atlantic slave-trade history.
• Cantinho dos Artistas: Arts and cultural spaces in Bissau when accessible.

Bijagós Archipelago

• Bubaque: Main island gateway with village life, beaches and local transport connections.
• Orango National Park: Mangroves, saltwater hippos, birdlife, turtles and marine landscapes.
• Bolama: Former colonial capital with decaying Portuguese architecture.
• João Vieira and Poilão Marine National Park: Important sea-turtle nesting and marine-conservation area.
• Island culture: Traditional Bijagó communities, ceremonies and nature-based travel; visit only respectfully with local arrangements.

Nature and coast

• Cacheu Mangroves Natural Park: Wetlands, birdlife, mangroves and river landscapes.
• Varela: Northern coastal beaches and forest landscapes; check route and border-area conditions first.
• Cufada Lagoons Natural Park: Wetlands, wildlife and inland nature areas.
• Cantanhez Forest: Forest and community landscapes in the south, requiring specialist planning.

Organised tourism is limited, and emergency response or medical treatment may not be available in-country. Use established local operators, avoid remote travel without support and maintain robust evacuation cover.

16. Nightlife & Events

Nightlife

Bissau has a modest nightlife scene centred on restaurants, hotel bars, live music and small local venues. Outside the capital, evenings are generally quiet. Arrange secure return transport and do not walk alone after dark.

• Bissau: Restaurants, hotel bars, music and social venues.
• Hotel venues: Often the most reliable option for evening dining and socialising.
• Bubaque: Quiet island evenings and lodge dining rather than conventional nightlife.
• Safety: Use trusted transport, avoid isolated streets and keep valuables secure.

Festivals and cultural events

• Guinea-Bissau Carnival: Major annual celebration of music, masks, dance and cultural identity.
• Independence Day: National events around 24 September.
• Bijagós cultural ceremonies: Traditional events that should only be attended when invited and with local guidance.
• Music and dance: Gumbé and other local styles are important cultural expressions.
• Religious festivals: Christian and Muslim events vary by community and calendar.

Festival arrangements can change due to political, weather or transport conditions. Confirm dates, access and safety arrangements with local accommodation and organisers before attending.

17. Useful Links & Media

Official travel and government information

• www.travelplanet.cc
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Guinea-Bissau
• Government Information of Guinea-Bissau
• ASECNA Aviation Information
• World Health Organization: Guinea-Bissau

Official travel advice

• U.S. travel advisory for Guinea-Bissau
• UK travel advice for Guinea-Bissau
• Canada travel advice for Guinea-Bissau
• Australia travel advice for Guinea-Bissau
• Germany travel advice for Guinea-Bissau
• Switzerland travel advice for Guinea-Bissau

Maps, videos and current news

• Google Maps: Guinea-Bissau
• Image search: Guinea-Bissau, Bissau and Bijagós
• YouTube: Guinea-Bissau Travel Guide
• YouTube: Bijagós Islands Guide
• Google News: Guinea-Bissau

Local and international media

• Agência de Notícias da Guiné
• O Democrata
• RFI: Africa
• BBC News: Africa