Equatorial Guinea

The Land of Islands
and Hidden Riches

Flag of Equatorial Guinea

Equatorial Guinea, a small country in Central Africa, is renowned for its rich biodiversity, oil wealth, and unique cultural blend. Home to landmarks like the Monte Alén National Park, Malabo's colonial architecture, and Bioko Island's pristine beaches, it offers a mix of natural wonders and historical sites. The country's geography ranges from volcanic islands to mainland rainforests.

Equatoguinean culture is a vibrant mix of Spanish, African, and indigenous influences, reflected in its music, art, and cuisine featuring dishes like succotash and pepesup. Known for its rapid economic growth due to oil reserves, diverse wildlife including rare primates, and as the only Spanish-speaking country in Africa, Equatorial Guinea presents a captivating destination that combines tropical beauty with a complex history.

Travel Documents

Documents

Toll

Driving

Currency

Laws

Legal

Safety

Flights

Travel Documents

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Equatorial Guinea.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date from Equatorial Guinea.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: No countries are fully visa-exempt for Equatorial Guinea. All travelers require a visa unless otherwise specified by diplomatic agreement.
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from all nations must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Equatorial Guinea, either through an embassy, high commission, or the e-Visa system.

Special Entry Provisions

  • No specific provisions exist for holders of Schengen, US, or UK visas or residence permits to enter Equatorial Guinea without a visa; an Equatorial Guinea-specific visa is required.
  • Travelers must have confirmed onward or return tickets, proof of sufficient funds for their stay, and a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

ID Card Entry

  • No countries are permitted to enter Equatorial Guinea using only a national ID card. A passport is mandatory for all travelers.

Visa Types

  • Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for up to 30 days (extendable with approval). Can be single or multiple entry, with validity up to 1 year.
  • Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 30 days. Valid for one year with a 90-day stay period, allowing application for a residence permit.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa durations vary; tourist stays are typically capped at 30 days unless extended.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules apply for work, study, or long-term stays; contact the nearest Equatorial Guinean embassy or high commission.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements (e.g., vaccination certificates or testing) via the Ministry of Health.
Toll

Driving in Equatorial Guinea

Current Toll Roads

  • As of 2025, Equatorial Guinea has no official toll roads. Major routes like the Malabo-Bata road are publicly funded, but tolls may be introduced on key routes in the future due to infrastructure needs.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates: Not applicable yet; monitor updates from the Equatorial Guinea Road Authority.
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: Central African CFA Franc (XAF) would be accepted if tolls are introduced.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Unlikely to be accepted initially; cash is king.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: No system currently exists.

Driving in Equatorial Guinea

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants, though enforcement is limited.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 40 km/h
    • Rural roads: 60 km/h
    • Highways: 80 km/h
  • Road conditions: Poor outside major cities like Malabo and Bata; unpaved, damaged, and unlit roads are common, especially during the rainy season (October to May).
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license for stays up to 3 months; longer stays require an Equatorial Guinean driver’s license.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Equatorial Guinea has no vignette system, but road taxes or checkpoints may apply—check locally.
  • Road Safety: Roads are hazardous due to poor maintenance, aggressive drivers, and occasional banditry. Avoid night driving outside urban areas.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is unreliable in rural areas; keep an updated physical map and a reliable communication device.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergencies (service may be limited, especially in rural areas).

Useful Links

Equatorial Guinea Currency

The official currency of Equatorial Guinea is the Central African CFA Franc (XAF).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10000 XAF
  • Coins: 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, 500 XAF
  • Symbol: CFA

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services available at banks, Malabo International Airport, and major hotels in Malabo and Bata.
  • ATMs are limited but available in major cities for direct XAF withdrawals (major UK, US, and Euro cards may be accepted).

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred, especially outside urban areas.
  • Credit/debit cards are rarely accepted, limited to major hotels and some businesses in Malabo and Bata.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans, though card use may be unreliable.
  • Carry sufficient cash for small purchases and rural areas.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when exchanging or using cards.
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Bank of Central African States website: https://www.beac.int/en/exchange-rates
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Equatorial Guinea

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in Equatorial Guinea, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Severe penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs, including lengthy prison sentences or execution. No tolerance for small amounts.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Public intoxication is illegal and punishable by fines or detention.
    • Smoking banned in public buildings and on public transport.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Avoid discussing sensitive political or ethnic issues, especially related to the government or regional tensions.
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are illegal, with penalties up to 3 years in prison. 2SLGBTQI+ travelers should carefully consider the risks of traveling to Equatorial Guinea.
  • Photography: Restricted near government buildings, military sites, or sensitive installations. Always ask permission for portraits of locals.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 1L spirits | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over $10,000 USD (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, firearms, endangered species products.
  • Counterfeit goods (may face fines or confiscation).

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 7 days at the airport via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR).

Complaints

  • Submit grievances to the Equatorial Guinea Tourism Office or local police stations.

Beach Access

  • Public beaches must allow free access within 2.5 meters of the shoreline. Wheelchair access is legally mandated on major beaches like those on Bioko Island.

Key Resources

Equatorial Guinea Safety

Equatorial Guinea is generally safe for travellers in some areas, but with significant risks due to crime and instability in certain regions. Travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Equatorial Guinea.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) and violent crime (e.g., armed robbery, carjacking) are common, especially in Malabo, Bata, and on public transport. Violent crime against tourists is less common but possible, particularly in rural areas or near borders.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Generally safe in urban areas during the day; avoid traveling alone at night or in rural zones, especially for women, due to occasional violence.

Road Safety

  • Driving is risky due to poor road conditions, aggressive drivers, and occasional banditry on remote routes.
  • Avoid night driving outside major cities due to unlit roads and security risks.
  • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory, but enforcement is limited.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Tap water is unsafe; use bottled or purified water.
    • Eat well-cooked food to avoid diarrhea, cholera, or typhoid.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Required: Yellow fever (for all travelers over 1 year old).
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, typhoid, polio, hepatitis B, rabies, malaria prophylaxis, and COVID-19.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Malaria, dengue, and African sleeping sickness are widespread; use repellent and bed nets.
  • Altitude Sickness: Minimal risk, as no areas exceed 3,008 meters (Pico Basile).

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Private facilities like the La Paz Hospital in Malabo offer higher standards. Rural areas often lack advanced care.
  • Pharmacies: Available in cities; stock essential medications, but supplies can be limited.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 112 (works for police, ambulance, and fire).
  • Police: 17 | Ambulance: 18 | Fire: 19.
  • Tourist Police (Malabo): +240 333 09 09 09.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Rent a 4x4 for rural travel; confirm insurance coverage and avoid public transport on remote routes.
  • Hiking: Use local guides for remote areas like Pico Basile, but avoid unless necessary due to security risks.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid discussing sensitive political or conflict-related issues.
  • Air Quality: Generally good, but monitor dust levels during dry seasons (June to September).

Key Links

Flying to Equatorial Guinea

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