Guinea Bissau 6 Day Itinerary

Guinea-Bissau 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Bissau

  • Arrival: Fly into Osvaldo Vieira International Airport (OXB) in Bissau, the capital city of Guinea-Bissau.
  • Accommodation: Check-in to a hotel in the city center, such as Hotel Mavegro or Hotel 24 de Setembro.
  • Afternoon: Explore the city’s colonial architecture, visit the Fortaleza d’Amura (a historic fort) and walk along the Ponto do Bairro (a waterfront promenade).
  • Evening: Enjoy local cuisine at a restaurant like Restaurante O Paparico or try some street food.

Day 2: Orango National Park

  • Morning: Take a ferry from Bissau to the Orango National Park (approx. 4 hours).
  • Afternoon: Explore the park’s mangrove forests and spot chimpanzees, hippos, and other wildlife.
  • Evening: Stay overnight at an eco-lodge like Ecolodge de Orango or camp on the beach.

Day 3: Bijagós Archipelago

  • Morning: Take a boat from Orango to the Bijagós Archipelago (approx. 2 hours).
  • Afternoon: Visit the islands of Bubaque and Bolama, known for their pristine beaches and traditional fishing villages.
  • Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood at a local restaurant or try some traditional Bijagó cuisine.

Day 4: Cacheu

  • Morning: Return to Bissau by ferry (approx. 2 hours) and then drive to Cacheu (approx. 3 hours).
  • Afternoon: Explore the historic town of Cacheu, including the Fortaleza de Cacheu (a fort built in 1641) and the nearby salt mines.
  • Evening: Stay overnight at a local guesthouse or hotel.

Day 5: Gabú

  • Morning: Drive to Gabú (approx. 2 hours), known for its traditional Fula villages and rice fields.
  • Afternoon: Visit a local village, learn about the Fula culture, and enjoy a traditional lunch.
  • Evening: Return to Bissau (approx. 4 hours) and enjoy a farewell dinner.

Day 6: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market.
  • Afternoon: Depart from Osvaldo Vieira International Airport (OXB).

Things to Know

  • Visa Requirements: Citizens of certain countries may need a visa to enter Guinea-Bissau. Check with the embassy or consulate of Guinea-Bissau in your country for requirements.
  • Vaccinations: Consult your doctor or a travel clinic about recommended vaccinations, such as yellow fever and malaria prophylaxis.
  • Language: The official language is Portuguese, but many locals speak Creole and French.
  • Currency: The West African CFA franc (XOF) is the local currency. You can exchange currency at banks or use ATMs.

Transportation

  • Flights: Book flights to Osvaldo Vieira International Airport (OXB) in advance.
  • Ferries: Take ferries between Bissau and Orango National Park, and between Orango and the Bijagós Archipelago.
  • Taxis and Cars: Hire taxis or cars with drivers for local transportation.

Other Tips

  • Safety: Guinea-Bissau is generally a safe country, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
  • Respect Local Culture: Dress modestly, respect traditional practices, and ask permission before taking photos of locals.
  • Health and Hygiene: Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and stay hydrated. Wash your hands frequently, especially before eating.

Additional Resources

Note: The itinerary is just a suggestion, and you should research and customize it according to your preferences, budget, and time constraints. Additionally, the travel requirements and health measures may change, so it’s essential to stay informed before and during your trip.