The tiny square-shaped former colony of Spain, Equatorial Guinea is known for having the highest number of rare species of monkeys in Africa. Visitors come to explore the Monte Alen National Park, a large protected area where the country’s wildlife and lush rainforests can be experienced. Surprisingly safe, it is not the crime or instability that will get to you here, but the weather just might, with a wet climate year-round.
Equatorial Guinea has a range of hotels suitable for travelers, with some luxury hotels in the capital. Other than that, it offers limited attractions and infrastructure. The people are welcoming, but avoid talking about politics or ethnic tensions. Spanish and French are the official languages, so you should have no problem getting around if you are fluent in either.
Where to Go
Highlights
- Malabo: the capital city of Equatorial Guinea, Malabo houses some of the best black sculptures in Africa created by the Fang people.
- Rio Muni: Bata is the capital of Rio Muni and is filled with busy markets, restaurants and hotels.
- Monte Alen: Equatorial Guinea’s main attraction, the Monte Alen National Park is situated 50kms from the Atlantic. Its wet and deep forests stretch across 1,600 square kilometers, and it features more than 105 animal species, a series of falls, rivers and rapids, and vegetation from the Caesalpiniaceae family.
- Bioko: is the country’s most important island, and is where the government is centralized. It has three inactive volcanoes including Luba, located southwest of the island where tourists cross to reach Grande Caldera.
When to Go
It is dominated by a wet climate.
It rains throughout the year with some violent thunderstorms particularly from July to October and from March to April.
Things to Do
- Safari: See all the unique primate species of Equator Guinea and explore the waterfalls and rivers at the Monte Alen National Park.
- Art: Marvel at the local art and see some of the best black sculptures in Malabo.
- Drinking: In Ebebiyin is a common activity, as it is known for its large number of bars. Just don’t forget your way back to your hotel after one too many glasses of wine.
- Swimming: Luba boasts of white sand beaches such as Arena Blanca.
Getting There
Equatorial Guinea can be reached by air through its two airports at Malabo and Bata. There are only a few airlines that fly to either airport with a combined total of 18,500 arrivals each year. The country has no railways and exploring by car is not advisable. Taking a boat is the best way to get between islands, with convenient ports available.
Health & Safety
Equatorial Guinea is fairly peaceful with none of the major conflicts that are common to African countries in this region. However, there are some ethnic tensions and resentment against the government, and if you want to avoid trouble, don’t photograph anything with military or strategic value including airports and government buildings.