Entry Requirements & Visas
New for 2026: E-Visa System Expansion
Guinea has expanded its e-visa platform for easier applications from eligible countries, costing around $50-100 depending on duration. The process is fully online and typically approved within 3-7 days, making it simpler for tourists to obtain entry permissions without embassy visits.
Passport Requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from Guinea, and it should have at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps.
Ensure your passport is in good condition, as damaged documents can lead to entry denial; renew early if necessary to avoid complications at borders.
Photocopies of your passport are recommended to carry separately in case of loss during travel.
Visa-Free Countries
Citizens of a few West African nations like Senegal, Mali, and Liberia can enter visa-free for short stays up to 90 days, but most international visitors require a visa in advance.
Always verify with the Guinean embassy in your home country, as agreements can change and proof of onward travel is mandatory even for visa-exempt entries.
ECOWAS passport holders enjoy facilitated entry, but registration with local authorities may be required upon arrival.
Visa Applications
Apply for a tourist visa (Type C) through the official e-visa portal or at a Guinean embassy/consulate, requiring documents like a completed form, passport photos, flight itinerary, hotel bookings, and proof of sufficient funds (at least $50/day).
Fees range from $50 for single-entry to $150 for multiple-entry visas valid up to 90 days; processing times vary from 3 days for e-visas to 2-4 weeks for embassy applications.
Include a yellow fever vaccination certificate, as it's mandatory for entry and checked at airports and land borders.
Border Crossings
Main entry points include Conakry International Airport, where visas are verified upon arrival, and land borders with Senegal, Mali, and Sierra Leone, which may involve longer waits and health checks.
Visa on arrival is available at Conakry airport for some nationalities but costs more ($80+) and requires immediate payment; overland crossings often need pre-arranged visas to avoid delays.
Carry multiple copies of your visa and entry stamp, as checkpoints are common on roads from borders to major cities.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended, covering medical evacuation (essential due to limited healthcare facilities), trip cancellations, and activities like hiking in the Fouta Djallon highlands.
Policies should include coverage for tropical diseases; providers like World Nomads offer plans starting at $5/day tailored for adventure travel in West Africa.
Ensure your policy covers repatriation, as medical facilities in remote areas are basic and serious cases may require airlift to Europe or South Africa.
Extensions Possible
Visa extensions for up to 30 additional days can be applied for at the Direction de la Surveillance du Territoire in Conakry or regional offices, requiring a valid reason like extended tourism or business.
Fees are approximately $30-50, with processing taking 3-5 days; provide proof of funds and accommodation to support your application.
Overstaying can result in fines up to $100/day and potential deportation, so plan extensions well in advance of your visa expiry.
Money, Budget & Costs
Smart Money Management
Guinea uses the Guinean Franc (GNF). For the best exchange rates and lowest fees, use Wise to send money or convert currency - they offer real exchange rates with transparent fees, saving you money compared to traditional banks.
Daily Budget Breakdown
Money-Saving Pro Tips
Book Flights Early
Find the best deals to Conakry by comparing prices on Trip.com, Expedia, or CheapTickets.
Booking 2-3 months in advance can save you 30-50% on airfare, especially for routes from Europe or West African hubs.
Consider multi-city tickets to include stops in neighboring countries for broader regional exploration at lower costs.
Eat Like a Local
Dine at street vendors or maquis for affordable meals like fufu or grilled fish under GNF 10,000, skipping touristy hotels to save up to 60% on food costs.
Local markets in Conakry or Kankan offer fresh fruits, vegetables, and ready-made dishes at bargain prices, often half the cost of restaurants.
Opt for set menus (plat du jour) at small eateries, which provide hearty portions for GNF 5,000-8,000 including sides.
Public Transport Passes
Use shared bush taxis (taxis-brousse) for intercity travel at GNF 20,000-50,000 per leg, far cheaper than private options and covering routes to Fouta Djallon or Kindia.
In Conakry, buy a weekly taxi pass or use moto-taxis for short trips at GNF 2,000-5,000, reducing daily transport expenses by 40%.
Avoid peak hours to skip surcharges and negotiate fares upfront for group rides to split costs further.
Free Attractions
Visit public markets in Conakry, hike the free trails in the Fouta Djallon highlands, and explore coastal beaches near Dubréka, all offering authentic experiences without entry fees.
Many natural sites like the Bossou chimpanzee reserve have low or no fees for independent visits, saving on guided tours.
Join community festivals or weekly markets for cultural immersion at no cost, providing deeper insights into Guinean life.
Card vs Cash
Cash is king in Guinea; ATMs are limited to Conakry and accept Visa/Mastercard, but carry small GNF notes for markets, taxis, and rural areas where cards aren't accepted.
Exchange USD or EUR at banks or authorized bureaus for better rates than airports; avoid street changers to prevent scams.
Use mobile money apps like Orange Money for transfers if available, but always have backup cash due to frequent power outages affecting digital payments.
Local Deals & Passes
Look for eco-tourism packages in regions like Upper Guinea that bundle transport and entry for GNF 100,000-200,000, covering multiple sites efficiently.
Negotiate with local guides for day rates around GNF 30,000, which can include free access to community areas otherwise off-limits.
Travel during off-peak dry season months for discounted lodging rates, often 20-30% lower than rainy season highs.
Smart Packing for Guinea
Essential Items for Any Season
Clothing Essentials
Pack lightweight, breathable cotton clothes for the tropical heat, including long-sleeve shirts and pants for sun protection and mosquito deterrence in humid areas.
Include modest attire like loose-fitting garments for cultural respect in rural villages and mosques; quick-dry fabrics are ideal for sudden showers.
Bring a wide-brimmed hat and scarf for dust in the dry season, along with layers for cooler highland evenings in Fouta Djallon.
Electronics
Pack a universal adapter for Type C/E plugs (220V), a solar-powered charger or power bank due to unreliable electricity, and a rugged smartphone with offline maps like Maps.me.
Download French language apps and a translator, as English is limited outside Conakry; include a waterproof case for electronics during rainy season.
A portable Wi-Fi hotspot or eSIM can help with spotty internet; bring extra memory cards for capturing wildlife and landscapes.
Health & Safety
Carry comprehensive travel insurance docs, a well-stocked first-aid kit with antimalarials, bandages, and rehydration salts, plus your yellow fever certificate.
Include high-SPF sunscreen, DEET mosquito repellent (essential for malaria prevention), and water purification tablets for remote areas.
Pack personal medications with prescriptions, as pharmacies outside cities may lack supplies; add a basic malaria test kit for peace of mind.
Travel Gear
Opt for a durable backpack or duffel with lockable compartments, a lightweight daypack for hikes, and a reusable water bottle with filter.
Bring a money belt or neck pouch for cash and passport security, plus multiple copies of important documents in waterproof sleeves.
Include a headlamp or flashlight for power outages, a multi-tool knife, and duct tape for quick repairs on long journeys.
Footwear Strategy
Choose sturdy, closed-toe hiking boots or trail shoes for rugged terrain in national parks and highlands, with good grip for muddy paths during rains.
Pack lightweight sandals or flip-flops for urban areas and beach relaxation, but ensure they're durable for unpaved roads.
Waterproof your shoes and bring extra socks to handle humidity and river crossings common in eco-adventures.
Personal Care
Pack travel-sized toiletries including biodegradable soap, wet wipes, and antifungal powder for humid conditions that promote infections.
Include lip balm with SPF, a compact rain poncho or umbrella, and laundry soap for washing clothes on the go in extended stays.
Feminine hygiene products may be scarce in rural areas, so bring sufficient supply; add hand sanitizer and tissues for basic hygiene.
When to Visit Guinea
Dry Season (November-April)
The best time for travel with cooler temperatures of 20-30°C, low humidity, and clear skies ideal for hiking in Fouta Djallon and exploring Conakry's markets.
Fewer rains mean better road access to remote areas like the Mount Nimba reserve; festivals like the Fête de l'Indépendance in October add cultural vibrancy.
Expect moderate crowds and lower prices toward the season's end, perfect for budget-conscious wildlife spotting and beach visits.
Hot Dry Period (February-April)
Warm days up to 35°C with minimal rain make it great for outdoor activities like chimpanzee trekking in Bossou and river safaris on the Niger.
Dust can be an issue in the Harmattan winds, but it's peak for eco-tourism with blooming landscapes and accessible trails.
Book accommodations early as this shoulder period attracts nature enthusiasts seeking optimal conditions for photography and adventure.
Wet Season Start (May-June)
Temperatures around 25-30°C with increasing rains that turn the countryside lush, ideal for waterfall visits in Dalaba and birdwatching in forested regions.
Fewer tourists mean quieter experiences and lower costs, though some roads may flood; it's a good time for cultural immersion in rural villages.
Pack for daily showers but enjoy vibrant greenery and harvest activities that showcase Guinea's agricultural heritage.
Peak Rainy Season (July-October)
Heavy rains (25-30°C) limit travel but offer dramatic scenery for those prepared, with opportunities for indoor cultural tours in Conakry museums.
Avoid if mobility is a concern due to mudslides, but it's budget-friendly with deep discounts on lodging and unique experiences like rainy-season fishing communities.
End-of-season (September-October) sees easing rains, making it suitable for resilient travelers interested in off-the-beaten-path exploration.
Important Travel Information
- Currency: Guinean Franc (GNF). Exchange USD/EUR at banks; ATMs scarce outside Conakry. Carry small bills as change is limited.
- Language: French is official; local languages like Pular, Maninka, and Susu widely spoken. English limited to urban hotels.
- Time Zone: Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), UTC+0 year-round
- Electricity: 220V, 50Hz. Type C/E plugs (European two-pin); power outages common, so bring a surge protector.
- Emergency Number: 117 for police, 118 for ambulance, 119 for fire; international +224 prefix
- Tipping: Not mandatory but appreciated; 5-10% at restaurants, GNF 1,000-5,000 for guides and drivers
- Water: Not safe to drink from taps; boil or use bottled/filtered water. Avoid ice in rural areas.
- Pharmacies: Available in cities like Conakry; stock up on essentials as rural supplies are inconsistent. Look for "Pharmacie" signs.