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This is the land of primates with painted faces, soft clouds of butterflies and insects so colorful they belong in the realm of fiction. Yes, Equatorial Guinea has something of a reputation, with a history of failed coups, allegations of corruption and buckets of oil, but there is plenty to bring you to this country's beautiful black-and-white shores.
The capital, Malabo, boasts colonial architecture alongside sleek oil company high-rises, yet retains its African flavor with colorful markets and a bustling port.
Beyond Malabo, on Bioko Island, are volcanic views, fishing villages, rainforests full of endangered primates, vibrant birdlife and shores of nesting sea turtles. On the mainland, Rio Muni's white beaches, forest paths and jungle-scapes await.
These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Equatorial Guinea.
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On the west side of the Plaza de España, this gracious, apricot-hued building is the most beautiful in the country. The architect, Llairadó Luis Segarra, had some input from Antonio Gaudí. Construction began in 1887 and it was consecrated in 1916. The style is Gothic Revival and it is flanked by two 40m-high towers and has three naves. It has recently been restored.
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Monte Alen is one of Central Africa's best-kept secrets, and reason enough to visit Equatorial Guinea. A protected area covering 2000 sq km, the park is an excellent place to experience the lush rain forests and wildlife of Rio Muni. In the interior are a series of lakes and waterfalls, with the landscape climbing to an elevation of 1200m. In the park it's possible to spot gorillas, chimpanzees, forest elephants, crocodiles and a whole range of other African animals, as well as myriad birds and insects. Be aware that hiking in the park can be hot, slippery and strenuous and it's essential to have a guide, who can be found around the entrance. Take your own water and food supplies. Unfortunately the hotel and campsites established in the 1990s are no longer usable due to lack of funding.
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This reserve, in the far northwest of Rio Muni, spans 335sq km and is a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance. Turtles, hippos and goliath frogs abound. It is managed by INDEFOR-AP in Bata, from whom you can obtain permits to visit. There are some cabins within the reserve to rent for turtle-watching, though they can be unavailable at times. Check with reserve management before making your way here.
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Arena Blanca is a lovely beach close to Luba, with white sand. It is known for its clouds of breeding butterflies. You'll find the beach is cleaner the further away from the car park you walk. The bars around the car park get very rowdy on Sundays. Be careful getting back to Malabo on Sundays as there can be drunken drivers.
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One of two signposted miradors (viewpoints) along the road that crosses Bioko Island, this one is high above Luba and has spectacular views across the rain forested mountains to the sea.
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One of two signposted miradors (viewpoints) along the road across the island, this one is high above Moka and has spectacular views over the island and ocean.
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This tiny Fang village is worth visiting for its spectacular beach. Standing on the clean sweep of sand, you can see Gabon and the Elobey Islands across the sea. There are dugout canoes on the beach which local people use to catch fish that they smoke for a living. They're a friendly bunch and their wares are tasty. Evouat lies 8km southwest of Akoga, a small town 13km north of Cogo. Turn southwest at the Somagec cement works and follow a dirt road to the coast.
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On a clear day you might be able to see the volcanic peak of Pico Basile, but clear days are rare. The park has dense rain forest and it's worth climbing the mountain for the wonderful views, but take a guide. You are not allowed to reach the top as it is a military area. Animals are shy thanks to hunting.
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This new park is next door to the airport, and covers an area of 870,000 sq metres. The park offers restaurants, a sports area, activities for children, a lake with jet-skis and boats and an art gallery.