Arquipélago Dos Bijagós

Introducing Arquipélago Dos Bijagós

With swaying palms, cooling breezes and powdery, white-sand beaches, the Bijagós islands exert a singular spell. Protected by swift tides and treacherous sandbanks, the island’s largely matriarchal people eluded Portuguese control until the 1930s. Now the entire archipelago, including its rich marine life, has been declared a biosphere reserve, while two island groups form national parks.

Travellers should note that transport to and between the islands is difficult. Also, low tides reveal kilometres-long mud flats, limiting beach going. Finally, telephone service – including mobile service – is unreliable.

Last updated: Sep 10, 2008