Guinea-Bissau is home to many people from different ethnic groups, and as a result, many languages are spoken in the country, such as Krioulo and several West African languages.
Guinea-Bissau is home to many people from different ethnic groups, and as a result, many languages are spoken in the country, such as Krioulo and several West African languages, including Balante, Mandinka and Fula. The official language of Guinea-Bissau is Portuguese. About half of the country’s inhabitants are followers of Islam, and around 40% are adherents of traditional African nature religions. Christians, by contrast, make up a religious minority at around 10%.
Highlights of Guinea-Bissau
The capital, Bissau, offers a number of historical and cultural sights to explore, such as the cathedral and the presidential palace. The city also boasts many excellent restaurants and cafés, as well as a picturesque waterfront promenade. Another attraction is the carnival, which takes place every year in February or March.
Among the country’s main attractions is certainly the region around the Bijagós Archipelago, with its long, deserted sandy beaches and towering palm trees. In the southeast of this region, there is also a national park. On the four islands of the park, among other things, the breeding grounds of the local sea turtles are protected. These sites can also be visited by tourists, though a short registration is required. Another national park is the Orango Island National Park, which protects the habitat of hippopotamuses and crocodiles. The park’s unique feature is that these animals bathe in saltwater. In the Cantanhez Forest near Jemberem, visitors can also see many animals in their natural environment, including chimpanzees, elephants and numerous bird species.
Location and climate of Guinea-Bissau
Guinea-Bissau is located in West Africa, bordered by Senegal to the north and Guinea to the east. To the southwest, the country borders the Atlantic Ocean. Guinea-Bissau consists of the mainland, the Arquipélago island group and the island of Bolama.
Guinea-Bissau has a humid tropical climate with a rainy season and a dry season. The rainy season lasts from May to November, and the dry season from December to May. The coastal region has a milder climate than the interior. Temperatures along the coast remain warm year-round, between 24 and 27 degrees Celsius. The highest rainfall is expected in July and August.
Entry and arrival
The country’s only international airport is located in the capital, Bissau. It can be reached directly from many European airports, including those in Germany. The airport is about eleven kilometres from the city centre, and taxis are available for onward travel. The country can also be reached by bus or car from Senegal or Guinea. However, the road to the border crossing from Guinea is often impassable during the rainy season due to flooding.
German citizens require a passport valid for at least six months and a valid visa to enter the country. The visa must be applied for in advance at the competent embassy in Brussels, as it is generally not possible to obtain one at the border. While a yellow fever vaccination is not required for travellers from Europe, it is recommended by the WHO.
