Warnings & Dangers in Guinea-Bissau
OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM
Guinea-Bissau is not a safe country for travel, and tourism is not mainly developed here. You will not get into serious trouble if you are as careful as possible. But in the country there are few suitable zones and services for tourists, so keep this fact in mind when planning a visit here.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : HIGH
Using public transport in Guinea-Bissau is not recommended, it is not safe. To move around the country, it is better to use your car or taxi. Be sure to use a licensed taxi service and that the driver has turned on the taximeter.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : HIGH
There are a lot of pickpockets in the country. You continuously need to keep track of your things. Particular care must be taken in street bazaars, train stations, and crowded places. Do not carry a lot of cash and jewelry.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM
Floods are a recurring natural hazard in Guinea-Bissau, especially along its coast. More massive rainfall events in the future, along with higher tides from rising sea levels, will continue to impact the shoreline.
MUGGING RISK : MEDIUM
Armed conflicts exist in Guinea-Bissau, but they rarely concern tourists. In any case, avoid walking late at night and do not travel alone. Ports and train stations are especially unsafe, avoid these places to avoid getting into trouble.
TERRORISM RISK : MEDIUM
Although there were no terrorist attacks in Guinea-Bissau, they cannot be ruled out, as this country is contributing to the UN peacekeeping initiative. Study the situation in this country before your visit here and follow all necessary safety measures.
SCAMS RISK : LOW
In Guinea-Bissau, there is a high risk of fraud. Always check everything twice and negotiate a price in advance, especially for taxis. Acquire goods and services only in proven places, so as not to get fake.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : HIGH
Women are not recommended for traveling to Guinea-Bissau alone. It may not be safe here, and there have been reports of violence towards single women travelers—travel in company, preferably men. It’s best to refrain from traveling here at all.
How Safe Is Guinea-Bissau for Tourists?
Guinea-Bissau is not the safest country to travel.
The crime rate here ranges from low to high.
The main problems are related to the theft of things, hacking cars, attacks, vandalism.
Also, the country has a very high level of problems with drug trafficking.
Guinea-Bissau is considered by the UN to be a major port for drug shipments into Europe.
Fortunately for travelers, the drug trafficking is generally confined to the open sea and harbor, and drug lords are too busy smuggling dope to be bothering anyone inside the country, local or ex-pat.
There is very little tourism in Guinea-Bissau.
Nightlife is generally safe, but keep your wits about you as you would anywhere else.
Many countries do not have a diplomatic presence in Guinea-Bissau, which means that it will be much more difficult for you if you are arrested, detained, or need consular assistance in an emergency.
If you are arrested, be prepared to pay a bribe.
However, it is not recommended to bribing officials directly.
Just ask if they can pay a fine for you because you don’t understand the customs procedures.
Then leave the country as soon as possible.
Before traveling, make sure you have yellow fever, hepatitis A, tetanus and typhoid vaccinations up to date.
Malaria prophylaxis is highly recommended.
Make sure you drink only bottled/filtered water.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Guinea-Bissau?
Visitors to Guinea-Bissau must obtain a visa on arrival (available to all nationalities and also online in the form of pre-enrolment or at one of the Guinea-Bissau diplomatic missions) unless they come from one of the countries or territories that are visa-exempt.
Which Currency Is Used in Guinea-Bissau?
The West African CFA franc is the currency of eight independent states in West Africa and Guinea-Bissau. The franc is nominally subdivided into 100 centimes but no centime denominations have been issued.
How's the Weather like in Guinea-Bissau?
The best times to visit Guinea-Bissau for ideal weather are December to May. Average temperatures in Guinea-Bissau vary very little, and the weather feels hot all year with a low chance of precipitation most of the year.
What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Guinea-Bissau?
Guinea-Bissau has several airports. The main airport of the country is Osvaldo Vieira International Airport is the only international airport in Guinea-Bissau, located in the capital city Bissau.
Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?
Just like anywhere else, the travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country. Make sure you got it before starting your journey, the customs officer may ask for it.
What Are Some Things to Do in Guinea-Bissau?
Guinea-Bissau is a state in West Africa. In addition to the mainland, it includes the island of Bolama and the Bizhagos archipelago. The country attracts tourists with the opportunity of wild travel: underwater fishing, watch saltwater hippo, visit the ruins of the country’s capital.
Is the Water in Guinea-Bissau Safe to Drink?
The quality of water in Guinea-Bissau most often it is publicly available and suitable for use. But tap water is not drinkable. Use bottled water instead for safe.
Is Uber Safe in Guinea-Bissau?
Uber is not available in Guinea-Bissau. But you can use any other taxi services in that country.