Guinea Bissau 7 Day Itinerary

Guinea-Bissau 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Bissau

  • Arrive at Osvaldo Vieira International Airport (OXB)
  • Transfer to your hotel in the city center
  • Spend the day exploring Bissau, visiting:
    • Fortaleza de São José da Amura, a historic fort
    • Mercado de Bandim, a bustling market
    • National Museum of Guinea-Bissau
  • Try some local cuisine for dinner, such as calulu (a stew made with fish or meat) or jollof rice

Visa Requirements: Guinea-Bissau requires a visa for most nationalities. You can obtain one upon arrival at the airport or in advance through a Guinea-Bissau embassy or consulate.

Day 2: Orango National Park

  • Take an early morning drive to Orango National Park (approx. 4 hours)
  • Go on a guided boat tour of the park’s mangrove forests and spot chimpanzees, hippos, and other wildlife
  • Return to Bissau in the evening

Transportation: Guinea-Bissau has limited public transportation. Hire a private car or driver for the day (approx. 50,000 XOF / $75 USD).

Day 3: Bijagós Archipelago

  • Take a ferry from Bissau to the Bijagós Archipelago (approx. 2 hours)
  • Visit Orango Island and explore its beautiful beaches and forests
  • Enjoy water activities like swimming, snorkeling, or fishing

Accommodation: Stay overnight on one of the islands in a local guesthouse or eco-lodge.

Day 4: Bijagós Archipelago

  • Spend another day exploring the archipelago’s many islands, such as:
    • Caravela Island, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant fishing village
    • Uno Island, with its stunning lagoon and mangrove forests
  • Enjoy fresh seafood and local cuisine

Day 5: Cacheu

  • Return to the mainland and drive to Cacheu (approx. 2 hours)
  • Visit the historic Fortaleza de São Domingos, a Portuguese fort
  • Explore the town’s colonial architecture and bustling market

Food and Drink: Try some of Guinea-Bissau’s local fruits like mangoes, papayas, or cashews.

Day 6: Gabú

  • Drive to Gabú (approx. 3 hours), known for its beautiful landscapes and traditional villages
  • Visit a local village and learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch in a scenic spot

Safety: Guinea-Bissau has had periods of instability. Stay informed about local conditions, avoid traveling at night, and keep valuables secure.

Day 7: Departure from Bissau

  • Return to Bissau (approx. 3 hours) and spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market
  • Depart from Osvaldo Vieira International Airport

Health and Vaccinations: Guinea-Bissau requires vaccinations against yellow fever, hepatitis A, and typhoid fever. Consult your doctor or a travel clinic before traveling.

Money: The local currency is the West African CFA franc (XOF). You can exchange currency at banks or bureaux de change. Credit cards are not widely accepted.

Language: The official language is Portuguese, but many people also speak Crioulo and French. Learn some basic phrases in Portuguese to help you navigate your trip.