Guinea-Bissau is a small West African nation with a rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and a wealth of natural beauty. From the bustling capital of Bissau to the pristine beaches of the Bijagos Archipelago, Guinea-Bissau has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for an adventure-filled getaway or a relaxing beach break, here are the top 20 places to see in Guinea-Bissau.
1. Bissau City
The capital of Guinea-Bissau, Bissau City is a bustling port city located on the Geba River. It is the largest city in the country and is home to a number of historical and cultural attractions. Visit the National Museum of Guinea-Bissau to learn about the country’s history, or explore the old Portuguese fortifications in the city.
2. Bolama
Located on the island of Bolama, this former colonial capital is now a sleepy fishing village. There are several historical sites to explore, including the old Portuguese fort and the Governor’s Palace. The island is also home to some of the best beaches in the country.
3. Bijagos Archipelago
The Bijagos Archipelago is a cluster of 88 islands located off the coast of Guinea-Bissau. It is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the country, along with a wealth of wildlife. Visit the islands to explore the mangroves, spot rare birds, and go snorkeling or diving in the crystal-clear waters.
4. Cacheu
Cacheu is a small fishing village located on the Cacheu River. It is known for its colonial-era architecture, which includes the old Portuguese fort and the Governor’s Palace. There are also several stunning beaches located nearby.
5. Orango National Park
Orango National Park is the largest protected area in Guinea-Bissau. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and monkeys. The park is also a great spot for birdwatching, with over 200 species of birds recorded in the area.
6. Joao Vieira Marine Park
Located off the coast of Guinea-Bissau, Joao Vieira Marine Park is a stunning protected area. It is home to a variety of marine life, including dolphins, whales, and sea turtles. The park is also a great spot for snorkeling and diving.
7. Bubaque
Bubaque is the largest island in the Bijagos Archipelago. It is home to a number of stunning beaches, along with a variety of wildlife. Visit the island to explore the mangroves, spot rare birds, and go snorkeling or diving in the crystal-clear waters.
8. Quebo
Quebo is a small town located on the banks of the Cacheu River. It is known for its colonial-era architecture, which includes the old Portuguese fort. The town is also home to several stunning beaches, making it a great spot for a beach break.
9. Rubane
Rubane is a small fishing village located on the Cacheu River. It is known for its colonial-era architecture, which includes the old Portuguese fort and several churches. The town is also home to some of the best beaches in the country.
10. Bafata
Bafata is the capital of the Oio region in Guinea-Bissau. It is home to a number of historical and cultural attractions, including the old Portuguese fort and several churches. The town is also known for its vibrant markets, where you can find a variety of local handicrafts.
11. Farim
Farim is a small town located on the banks of the Cacheu River. It is known for its colonial-era architecture, which includes the old Portuguese fort and several churches. The town is also home to some of the best beaches in the country.
12. Mansoa
Mansoa is a small town located on the banks of the Mansoa River. It is home to a number of historical and cultural attractions, including the old Portuguese fort and several churches. The town is also known for its vibrant markets, where you can find a variety of local handicrafts.
13. Bissorã
Bissorã is a small town located on the banks of the Mansoa River. It is home to a number of historical and cultural attractions, including the old Portuguese fort and several churches. The town is also known for its vibrant markets, where you can find a variety of local handicrafts.
14. Canchungo
Canchungo is a small town located on the banks of the Cacheu River. It is home to a number of historical and cultural attractions, including the old Portuguese fort and several churches. The town is also known for its vibrant markets, where you can find a variety of local handicrafts.
15. São Domingos
São Domingos is a small town located on the banks of the Cacheu River. It is home to a number of historical and cultural attractions, including the old Portuguese fort and several churches. The town is also known for its vibrant markets, where you can find a variety of local handicrafts.
16. Quinhamel
Quinhamel is a small town located on the banks of the Mansoa River. It is home to a number of historical and cultural attractions, including the old Portuguese fort and several churches. The town is also known for its vibrant markets, where you can find a variety of local handicrafts.
17. Oio
Oio is the capital of the Oio region in Guinea-Bissau. It is home to a number of historical and cultural attractions, including the old Portuguese fort and several churches. The town is also known for its vibrant markets, where you can find a variety of local handicrafts.
18. Cacine
Cacine is a small town located on the banks of the Mansoa River. It is home to a number of historical and cultural attractions, including the old Portuguese fort and several churches. The town is also known for its vibrant markets, where you can find a variety of local handicrafts.
19. Bolama Island
Bolama Island is the largest island in the Bijagos Archipelago. It is home to a number of stunning beaches, along with a variety of wildlife. Visit the island to explore the mangroves, spot rare birds, and go snorkeling or diving in the crystal-clear waters.
20. Bissagos Islands
The Bissagos Islands are a cluster of 88 islands located off the coast of Guinea-Bissau. It is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the country, along with a wealth of wildlife. Visit the islands to explore the mangroves, spot rare birds, and go snorkeling or diving in the crystal-clear waters.