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Guinea-Bissau

Like a microcosm of Africa, this tiny nation contains multitudes – of landscapes, peoples, cultures and plant and animal life. All of it within reach of the capital, Bissau. The jewel in the country's crown is the labyrinth of tropical islands that make up the Arquipélago dos Bijagós. Long white-sand beaches are lapped by waters brimming with fish. Hippos, monkeys, chimps and buffaloes thrive in protected reserves and hundreds of bird species call its vast mangroves and wetlands home.

The jokes, like the Bissau-Guineans' music, are loud but tender and that bowl of grilled oysters you ordered will be served with a sauce spicy enough to give a kick.

 

Top attractions

These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Guinea-Bissau.

  • See

    Parque Nacional das Ilhas de Orango

    Though it consists of several other islands (Ilha de Imbone, Ilha de Orangozinho, Ilha de Canogo and Ilha de Meneque), the heart of Parque Nacional das Ilhas de Orango is its namesake, Ilha de Orango. Travellers know the latter as the site of Anôr Lagoon, where you can spot rare and sacred saltwater hippos, which live in both the sea and freshwater. Besides wildlife and birds, there are breathtaking beaches. Local guides (around CFA10,000) lead you on a sandy path, more reminiscent of the prototypical African savannah than other islands. Be sure to wear shoes that you won't mind muddying or sandals with straps, as well as pants you can roll up or shorts. It's a pretty walk, though shade is scarce.

  • See

    Bubaque Museum

    Houses a collection of masks, sculptures and other ritual objects collected by an Italian missionary

  • See

    Fortaleza d'Amura

    Surrounded by imposing, if decomposing stone walls, this fort, originally built in 1753, is the headquarters of the Guinean military and off-limits to visitors. After dark, exercise caution when walking past the fort, which is off the southern end of Av Pansau Na Isna, and the area close to the port.

  • See

    Presidential Palace

    The newly renovated presidential palace dominates Praça dos Heróis Nacionais at the northern end of Av Amílcar Cabral. Damaged during the civil war, its graceful, neoclassical facade now incorporates modern features. Security is suspicious of photographers aiming for a close-up.

  • See

    Pidjiguiti Monument

    Three separate monuments to martyrs of the 1959 Pidjiguit Massacre when striking dockworkers were killed by the colonial police force. August 3rd, the day of the event, is a national holiday. There's also a bust of Amílcar Cabral in the square.