Guinea-Bissau’s diverse ecosystems, from coastal mangroves to savanna woodlands, host a variety of wildlife. You can find large mammals like the African manatee, hippos (including a unique saltwater-dwelling population), African wild dogs, and lions. The country’s waters are abundant with fish, dolphins, and whales. It’s also a crucial nesting site for sea turtles and a home to numerous migratory birds, including the national bird, the black-crowned crane.
The legendary Bijagos Islands
The 88 Bijagós Islands off the coast of Guinea-Bissau are considered one of the last largely untouched natural paradises in West Africa. As a UNESCO biosphere reserve, they offer exceptional ecological diversity with mangrove forests, tropical rainforests, savannahs and tidal beaches. Some of the islands have a few visitors in a month only, imagine how nice they may look!
Guinea-Bissau offers a truly unique and off-the-beaten-path holiday experience, appealing to those who seek authentic culture, untouched nature, and adventure. Here’s what makes it special from a holidaymaker’s perspective:
The Bijagós Archipelago:
This is Guinea-Bissau’s crown jewel. A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this archipelago of over 88 islands is a paradise of pristine, deserted beaches, lush forests, and a unique culture. Only a handful of the islands are inhabited, and the matriarchal society of the Bijagó people is a fascinating cultural encounter.
Unique Wildlife:
The Bijagós islands are home to rare species like the saltwater hippos, the only population of their kind in the world. The islands are also a critical nesting site for endangered sea turtles, and you can take tours to witness them laying their eggs. On the mainland, national parks like Cantanhez and Lagoas Cufada offer a chance to spot chimpanzees, African manatees, and a vast array of bird species.
Authentic Cultural Immersion:
Unlike more commercialized destinations, Guinea-Bissau offers a genuine look into West African life. Visitors can explore the crumbling colonial-era architecture in the former capital, Bolama, or the current capital, Bissau, and wander through bustling local markets. The country’s annual Carnival is a vibrant and colorful celebration of its diverse ethnic groups.
A Slow, Relaxed Pace:
Tourism is minimal, so you’ll find a tranquil and unhurded atmosphere. The focus is on appreciating the natural beauty and the relaxed rhythm of life, rather than on a packed itinerary.
Particularly noteworthy is the existence of saltwater-loving hippos on Orango Grande, a rare phenomenon worldwide. The islands are also important breeding grounds for sea turtles and a hotspot for migratory birds, including flamingos and pelicans.
The local population, the Bijagó, live in matriarchal societies with deep-rooted spiritual traditions, which also gives the region a special cultural depth. As many of the islands can only be reached by boat and there is hardly any tourist infrastructure, their natural and cultural authenticity remains largely intact.
Is this secluded island paradise Guinea Bissau now opening up to tourism?
The West African country of Guinea-Bissau, which has hardly been developed for tourism to date, is planning to open up to international travellers without delay. The government is focusing on sustainable ecotourism instead of mass tourism. The population is open-minded, the security situation is improving and investors are welcome.
The capital, Bissau, is architecturally reminiscent of Salvador de Bahia and Lisbon, with affordable accommodation starting at €15 per night. In Bissau and some of the advanced islands nice 4 and 5 star resorts and hotels are to find, but the average guest house is more simple and not very comfortable. It is a question of the wishes and desire of the tourists, whatever they want they can get…
This nice video shows the leading hotel in the capital of Guinea Bissau:
How to get to Bissau?
The three-letter IATA code for Bissau’s Osvaldo Vieira International Airport is OXB. Currently, it is somewhat difficult to reach Bissau. Travellers can fly with TAP via Lisbon or with Royal Air Maroc via Casablanca. Direct flights from Europe are in the planning stages, and visa simplifications are being discussed. Guinea-Bissau could become a new highlight on Africa’s travel map – comparable to the boom in Georgia after it opened up.
Conclusion:
If Guinea-Bissau does indeed open its doors to European travellers very soon, this exciting country with its 88 islands will shake up the entire African tourism market. We are excited and will keep an eye on the rumours and report back in a timely manner. Those interested can find out much more about the country and its people from the regional experts at
Guinea Bissau Specialist Algassimo Ba
or
Who was writing about the most exciting destination Guinea Bissau?
BellaCoola Film Production UG (Haftungsbeschränkt)
Mr. Oliver Gaebe
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