Photo: Mooonswimmer, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

West Africa · Country guide

Guinea-Bissau

A quiet coastal country whose Bijagós islands are one of Africa’s hidden wonders.

Flag of Guinea-Bissau
Capital
Bissau
Region
West Africa
Languages
Portuguese
Currency
West African CFA franc
Best time to visit
Nov to Apr

Guinea-Bissau’s draw is the Bijagós: a biosphere reserve of around 88 islands with matriarchal island cultures, nesting sea turtles and hippos that swim in the sea. Getting around takes planning and boats.

Did you know? On Orango island in the Bijagós, hippos live in saltwater lagoons and swim in the sea.

Known for

  • The Bijagós archipelago
  • Saltwater hippos on Orango
  • Sea turtles on Poilão
  • Old Bissau

Did you know?

On Orango island in the Bijagós, hippos live in saltwater lagoons and swim in the sea.

Before you go

  • Visas: rules depend on your passport and change often. Check Guinea-Bissau’s official immigration website and see our visa guide.
  • Health: see a travel clinic about vaccines and malaria. Read our health guide.
  • Safety: read your government’s current travel advice for Guinea-Bissau.

Plan your trip

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Frequently asked questions

What is the capital of Guinea-Bissau?

Bissau.

What currency does Guinea-Bissau use?

West African CFA franc.

What languages are spoken in Guinea-Bissau?

Portuguese.

When is the best time to visit Guinea-Bissau?

Nov to Apr.

Have you been to Guinea-Bissau?

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