Road Trips in Guinea-Bissau

Bissau, the capital of Guinea-Bissau, is a holiday destination most frequently chosen by travellers. That doesn’t come as a surprise. The city is a showcase of colonial edifices that are topped up with such highlights as Fortaleza d’Amura, Presidential Palace, Pidjiguiti Monument, or the Home Museum of Amílcar Cabral. 

Some of the smaller Guinea-Bissau’s settlements, such as Jemberem, Quebo, Che Che, or Bafata will be of interest to tourists who seek a fuller insight into the diversity of local cultures and tribes. However, if you would like to escape civilization all together, you should venture into one of the country’s stunning natural parks. At your disposal, you have the Cantanhez National Park, the Orango Islands National Park, or the Lagoas de Cufada National Park with the nearby village of Buba.

Travel to Bolama to admire the scenic topography of mangrove swamps, stay at Isla Bolama to learn more on colonial architecture, or head for Bissorã to learn more on the country’s violent past.

Suggested Road Trips in Guinea Bissau

• Bissau to Bolama: This road trip takes you from the capital city of Bissau to the coastal city of Bolama, passing through lush forests and rolling hills. Along the way, you can visit the Orango Islands National Park, where you can admire the diverse wildlife and relax on the pristine beaches. You can also stop at the historic city of Bolama, which was once the capital of the country and is now a charming colonial city with well-preserved architecture.

• Bissau to Cacheu: This road trip takes you from Bissau to the coastal city of Cacheu, passing through rural villages and scenic landscapes. Along the way, you can visit the Mane Salt Works, which are still used to produce salt in the traditional way, as well as the bustling city of Cacheu, which is known for its colonial architecture and rich history.

• The Northern Loop: This road trip takes you through the lush rainforests and rolling hills of the northern part of the country, passing through traditional villages and scenic landscapes. Along the way, you can visit the Varela Forest Reserve, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants and monkeys, as well as the Bafatá National Park, which is known for its stunning waterfalls and natural beauty. Whether you're interested in nature, culture, or both, this road trip offers a truly unforgettable experience.

Guinea-Bissau can’t really boast a good road infrastructure or a well-developed public transport system. Therefore, it’s best to rely on rented vehicles available at international airports. To make your journey as comfortable as possible, it’s best to opt for a 4x4 off-road vehicle.

Roads in Guinea-Bissau are characterised by scarcity of road signs, and there are plenty of animals that pose an additional threat while travelling around the country. Always avoid travelling at night and stay extra cautious in the wet season that lasts from June to October. 

When taking a road trip in Guinea Bissau, it is important to be aware of the following:

• Road conditions: The road infrastructure in Guinea Bissau can be limited, with some roads in poor condition. It is important to drive carefully and be prepared for unpredictable road conditions.

• Safety: While Guinea Bissau is generally considered a safe country, it is still important to take the usual precautions, such as avoiding traveling at night and keeping valuables secure.

• Healthcare: Adequate travel insurance is recommended, and it is also a good idea to carry basic medical supplies, as healthcare facilities in rural areas can be limited.

• Language: Portuguese is the official language in Guinea Bissau, but many local languages are also spoken throughout the country. It may be helpful to learn a few basic Portuguese phrases or to bring a translation dictionary.

• Respect for local customs: Guinea Bissau has a rich cultural heritage, and it is important to respect local customs and traditions when visiting villages and historical sites.

• Local laws: It is important to familiarize yourself with the local laws and regulations, such as those relating to wildlife viewing and conservation, to avoid any potential legal issues.

By being aware of these factors, you can ensure that your road trip in Guinea Bissau is safe, enjoyable, and culturally rich.

The best time for taking a road trip in Guinea Bissau depends on what you want to see and do. Here are a few things to consider:

• Rainy season: The rainy season in Guinea Bissau lasts from June to September, during which time some roads may become impassable and flooding may occur.

• Wildlife viewing: The best time for wildlife viewing is during the dry season, which lasts from October to May. During this time, animals are easier to spot and the parks are less crowded.

• Cultural events: If you're interested in experiencing local cultural events, the best time to visit is during the dry season, when traditional festivals and celebrations are more likely to take place.

In conclusion, the best time to take a road trip in Guinea Bissau is during the dry season, from October to May, when the weather is more favorable, wildlife is easier to spot, and local cultural events are more likely to occur. However, if you don't mind the occasional rain and are prepared for unpredictable road conditions, you can visit at any time of the year.

If you are planning a road trip in Guinea-Bissau, there are some essentials you should bring and pack. Here are some suggestions:

• Passport and visa: Ensure you have a valid passport and visa if required for your nationality.

• Cash: Guinea-Bissau is a cash-based economy, so bring enough cash with you for your entire trip is recommended. Credit cards are not widely accepted.

• Mosquito repellent: Guinea-Bissau is a tropical country, and mosquitoes are prevalent. Bring mosquito repellent to protect yourself from mosquito-borne illnesses like malaria and dengue fever.

• Sunscreen: Guinea-Bissau is hot and sunny year-round, so bring sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays.

• Light clothing: Bring lightweight, breathable clothing as the weather in Guinea-Bissau is hot and humid.

• Comfortable shoes: You will be doing a lot of walking and exploring, so bring comfortable shoes.

• First aid kit: Pack a basic first aid kit with essentials like band-aids, antiseptic cream, and painkillers.

• Water bottle: It's essential to stay hydrated, so bring a reusable water bottle to refill throughout your trip.

• Camera: Guinea-Bissau has stunning scenery and unique culture, so bring a camera to capture your trip's memories.

• Travel adapter: Guinea-Bissau uses 220V electrical outlets, so bring a travel adapter if you plan to charge your devices.

It's always a good idea to research the specific area you'll be visiting and consider any additional items you may need based on your itinerary.

There aren't many guidebooks and road maps available for Guinea-Bissau, but here are a few options that may be useful for your road trip:

• Bradt Travel Guide Guinea-Bissau by Sean Rorison: This guidebook is the most comprehensive and up-to-date guide to Guinea-Bissau, covering everything from history and culture to practical information and travel tips. It also includes information on wildlife and nature reserves.

• Lonely Planet West Africa by Anthony Ham, Michael Grosberg, and Vesna Maric: This guidebook covers the entire region of West Africa, including Guinea-Bissau. It includes detailed information on attractions, accommodations, and transport options.

• National Geographic Adventure Map Guinea-Bissau: This waterproof and tear-resistant map includes topographic detail, trails, and points of interest for exploring the country. It also includes a detailed inset map of the capital, Bissau.

Remember to cross-reference information from different sources, and consider bringing a physical map in case of technology failures or lack of internet connectivity.