Bissau - Discovering Guinea-Bissau

Travelling to Bissau

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Bissau, a pretty good destination in Guinea-Bissau (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Bissau and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Bissau, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Guinea-Bissau, here's everything to know about Bissau for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Bissau

Bissau is the capital and largest city of Guinea-Bissau, situated on the west coast of Africa. It has a population of approximately 500,000 people and is the country's political, economic and cultural center. The city is known for its vibrant music scene, colonial-era architecture, and bustling markets, and is home to several museums, theaters, and art galleries. Bissau also serves as a gateway to the Bijagos Archipelago, a group of 88 islands known for their unspoiled natural beauty and traditional culture. However, it is important to note that Bissau faces several challenges such as poverty, political instability, and a lack of adequate infrastructure. As a result, visitors should exercise caution and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety while traveling in the city.

What to visit in Bissau

Sure, here are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Bissau, Guinea-Bissau: 1. Bissau Velho: Bissau Velho is the old town of Bissau, and it is a major tourist attraction. The area is dotted with colonial-era buildings, and there are several interesting places to see, including the central market, the Pidjiguiti Memorial and the Palace of the Governor-General.
2. The Arquipelago dos Bijagos: The Arquipelago dos Bijagos is a group of islands located off the coast of Guinea-Bissau. It is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Site, home to rich marine wildlife, unique flora and fauna, and several indigenous tribes.
3. Fortaleza d'Amura: Fortaleza d'Amura is a 17th-century Portuguese fort located in the center of Bissau. Visitors can enjoy panoramic city views from the top of the fort, and can learn about the history of the region.
4. National Ethnographic Museum: The National Ethnographic Museum is located in the city center of Bissau. It features a collection of artifacts representing the culture and history of the country. 5. Bissau-Guinean National Park: The Bissau-Guinean National Park is located in the northwestern part of Guinea-Bissau. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including chimpanzees, hippos, elephants, and several species of birds.
6. Praia de Bruce: Praia de Bruce is a beautiful beach located in Bissau, with clear blue water, white sand and palm trees. It is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the sea breeze.
7. The Presidential Palace: The Presidential Palace is located in the city center of Bissau. It is an impressive building, with a beautiful garden and a statue of the country's first president, Amilcar Cabral. Visitors can take a tour of the palace and learn about the country's political history.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions in Bissau, Guinea-Bissau!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Guinea-Bissau, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Bissau.

When to go on holiday to Bissau

The best time to visit Bissau is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is hot and sunny with little to no rainfall. However, it's important to keep in mind that Bissau can be quite humid, even during the dry season. If you prefer cooler temperatures, it's recommended to visit during the cooler season from May to October, but keep in mind that this is also the wet season and rainfall may be frequent.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Bissau

To get to Bissau, the capital of Guinea-Bissau, you can take a flight to the Osvaldo Vieira International Airport (OXB) from major cities in Europe and Africa like Lisbon, Dakar, and Casablanca. TAP Air Portugal and Royal Air Maroc are some of the airlines that operate flights to the airport. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a shared taxi or private transfer to get to Bissau city center. It's also possible to travel to Guinea-Bissau by road, but it can be a challenging journey due to poor road conditions and border formalities.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Bissau, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Bissau

Sure, here are some typical foods of Bissau (Guinea-Bissau) with a short description for each: 1. Jollof Rice: A popular West African dish made with long-grain rice cooked in a tomato-based sauce along with various spices and sometimes vegetables or meat.
2. Caldo de Peixe: A traditional fish soup made with ingredients like onions, peppers, tomatoes, and several types of fish, including tilapia and sea bream.
3. Caril de Carne: A curry dish made with beef, onion, garlic, tomato, and coconut milk, as well as various spices including curry powder and cumin. It is usually served with rice or bread.
4. Xerém: A type of porridge made with cornmeal, tomatoes, onions, and sometimes seafood or meat. It is a popular dish in Bissau and other West-African countries.
5. Suca: A type of pancake made with rice flour, coconut milk, and sometimes sugar. It is often served as a dessert or a snack.
6. Bolinhos de Bacalhau: A popular snack made with salt cod mixed with potatoes, onions, garlic, and parsley, formed into balls and fried until crispy. 7. Frango à Guineense: A chicken dish marinated in a spicy sauce with peanuts, palm oil, and tomato-based sauce. The chicken is then stewed and served with rice. 8. Cachupa: A slow-cooked stew made with a variety of ingredients such as corn, beans, cassava, and fish or meat. It is a common dish to have for breakfast or lunch.
You can find general info about typical foods in Guinea-Bissau here.

Is Bissau an expensive destination for tourists?

Bissau (Guinea-Bissau) can be considered a relatively expensive destination for tourists due to several factors. Firstly, the cost of living in Bissau is higher compared to many other African countries. Secondly, the tourism infrastructure is not well developed, and therefore, costs for certain activities or services can be higher. However, if you plan your trip well, you can still have an affordable and enjoyable experience. It's recommended that you do some research on accommodation options, transportation, and food prices beforehand to make sure that your budget can accommodate the trip to Bissau.

Where to find accomodation in Bissau

The best areas to find accommodation in Bissau are the city center and the Palmarejo neighborhood. The city center is the financial and cultural heart of the city, where most of the historic buildings, museums, markets, and restaurants are located. The Palmarejo neighborhood is a quieter and greener area, located a little outside of the city center, which offers nice accommodation options, restaurants, and great views of the city and the sea. Both areas have good transport links to other parts of the city and are relatively safe.
You can check hotel prices at Bissau here:
Booking.com

Is Bissau a safe destination for tourists?

Guinea-Bissau has a history of political instability and high rates of petty crimes, making it a potentially risky destination for tourists. The U.S. Department of State advises against all non-essential travel to Guinea-Bissau due to crime, civil unrest, and the potential for instability. If you do decide to travel to Guinea-Bissau, it is recommended that you exercise a high degree of caution and take precautions such as staying in safe accommodations, avoiding demonstrating or large crowds, and not carrying large sums of money or expensive items. It is also advisable to obtain up-to-date and reliable information about the local situation before and during your trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Guinea-Bissau here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Bissau.

What type of travelers will enjoy Bissau the most?

Bissau can be an interesting destination for different types of travelers, depending on their preferences and travel goals. The city offers a mix of cultural and historical attractions, natural beauty, and a lively atmosphere. Here are some suggestions based on the type of traveler: - Couples: Bissau can be a great destination for couples who are looking for a romantic getaway in a unique and off-beat location. The city offers a rich cultural experience, with museums, art galleries, and historical sites, such as Fortaleza de Amura and Palácio do Governo. Couples can also enjoy some leisure time by the beach or a boat trip to nearby islands, such as Ilha de Orango.
- Young people looking for fun: Bissau can be a lively and adventurous destination for young people who are looking for a unique and authentic travel experience. The city has a thriving nightlife scene with lots of bars, clubs, and music venues. Young travelers can also explore the local markets, try the street food, and mingle with the locals.
- Families: Bissau can be an interesting destination for families who are looking for a cultural and educational experience for their kids. The city has several museums, such as the National Ethnographic Museum, which showcases the country's diverse cultural heritage. Families can also visit the wildlife park, Cantanhez Forest National Park, which is home to rare species of monkeys, birds, and other animals.
Overall, Bissau can offer a unique travel experience to different types of travelers, but it's important to plan ahead and research the local customs and safety guidelines.

How to get around Bissau

The most common form of transportation in Bissau, Guinea-Bissau, is the "candonga", shared taxis that follow established routes. They are usually small vehicles that can accommodate up to 6-7 passengers at a time. Motorcycle-taxis, also known as "mototaxis," are also widespread and are generally cheaper than the candongas. Additionally, there are buses available for those who want to travel a greater distance across the country. However, it is advisable to check the safety conditions of these options before deciding to use them.

What to see around Bissau

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Bissau: 1. Bolama Island: A picturesque island located about 90 km southwest of Bissau, surrounded by beautiful beaches and mangrove swamps.
2. Varela Beach: Located about 100 km northwest of Bissau, this stunning beach is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Atlantic Ocean.
3. Cacheu: A charming town situated about 120 km north of Bissau, famous for its Portuguese colonial architecture and rich history.
4. Geba River: This river is the longest in Guinea-Bissau and offers a great opportunity for boat rides and fishing.
5. Bafatá: A historic town located about 150 km east of Bissau, known for its traditional architecture and vibrant marketplaces.
6. Orango Island: A beautiful island located about 100 km southwest of Bissau, known for its abundance of wildlife including hippos, monkeys, crocodiles, and birds.
7. Bijagós Islands: A group of islands located about 80 km off the coast of Guinea-Bissau, known for their unique culture and stunning natural beauty.
For every travel information about Guinea-Bissau you can click here.

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