Guinea-Bissau does not allow entry with an ID card only, except for citizens of ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) member countries. They can enter using their national ID cards instead of a passport.
All travelers must present a valid passport to enter Guinea-Bissau. The entry requirements depend on your nationality:
Citizens of ECOWAS member states can enter Guinea-Bissau without a visa for an unlimited period.
Guinea-Bissau offers a visa on arrival for citizens of several countries. Travelers need to present a valid passport, return/onward ticket, and proof of accommodation.
Citizens of countries not eligible for visa-free entry or visa on arrival must obtain a visa from a Guinean embassy or consulate before traveling.
Note: Always check the latest entry requirements based on your nationality before planning your trip, as regulations can change.
Guinea-Bissau has a limited road network, and there are currently no toll roads. Most roads, especially outside the capital, Bissau, are unpaved and can be challenging to navigate, especially during the rainy season.
Guinea-Bissau has a tropical climate with a distinct wet and dry season. The coastal areas experience high humidity, while the interior regions have more variation in temperature.
The rainy season is marked by heavy rainfall and high humidity. Temperatures range from 77°F to 86°F (25°C to 30°C), and the rains can cause flooding in some areas.
The dry season brings cooler temperatures and lower humidity. Temperatures range from 70°F to 95°F (21°C to 35°C), with the Harmattan winds blowing from the Sahara Desert, creating dry and dusty conditions.
The official currency of Guinea-Bissau is the West African CFA Franc (XOF). The Franc is abbreviated as XOF and symbolized as ₣.
West African CFA Franc banknotes are available in denominations of 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, and 10,000 XOF. Coins are available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, 200, and 500 XOF.
Currency exchange services are available at banks in Bissau and other major cities. ATMs are not widely available outside of Bissau, so it is advisable to carry sufficient cash.
Credit and debit cards are accepted in some hotels and restaurants in Bissau but are not widely used elsewhere. It is advisable to carry cash, especially in rural areas and smaller towns.