Guinea Bissau 7 Day Itinerary

Guinea-Bissau 7-Day Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Bissau 🌇

  • Arrive at Osvaldo Vieira International Airport (OXB) and check into your accommodation.
  • Freshen up and head to the city center for a first taste of Guinean cuisine at local restaurants like Casa de Fruta or Semente.
  • Visit the Independence Square (Praca da Independencia), the heart of Bissau, where you can see the Presidential Palace and the National Museum.

Day 2: Explore Bissau 🌄 🏙️

  • Start your day with breakfast at a local café, then visit the National Museum for an overview of Guinea-Bissau’s history and culture.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring Rua Verdi (Verdi Street), known for its vibrant art scene and numerous galleries, workshops, and artist studios.
  • In the evening, enjoy a sunset walk along the Costa do Verde beach, followed by dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 3: Cotovelo Beach & Bolama Island 🏖️ 🌴

  • Take a day trip to Cotovelo Beach, approximately 2 hours from Bissau. Known for its stunning scenery and calm waters, it’s perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
  • In the afternoon, head to Bolama Island (approximately 7 hours from Cotovelo). It was the capital of Portuguese Guinea before independence. Visit the ruins of the old cathedral and administrative buildings.
  • Return to Bissau for an evening meal.

Day 4: Cacheu & Its Slave Forts 🏯 ⛪️

  • Travel to Cacheu, a charming colonial town with beautiful architecture (approximately 3 hours from Bissau).
  • Visit the Slave Forts of Bolama and Buboc, important historical sites that remind us of the tragic slave trade in West Africa.
  • Explore the local market in Cacheu and try some traditional Guinean dishes.

Day 5: Oio National Park & Surroundings 🦁 🌄

  • Head to Oio National Park (approximately 4 hours from Cacheu). It’s home to various wildlife, including elephants, lions, and hippos.
  • Spend the day on a guided safari tour, taking in the stunning landscapes and spotting some of the park’s residents.
  • Set up camp in the park for an overnight adventure under the stars.

Day 6: Return to Bissau 🏞️ 🌇

  • Return from Oio National Park to Bissau, reflecting on your African adventure.
  • In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant like Terra do Sol or Kan Kan, known for their authentic Guinean dishes and live music.

Day 7: Departure 🌅

  • Spend your last hours in Guinea-Bissau soaking up any remaining sights or souvenir shopping.
  • Depart from Osvaldo Vieira International Airport with unforgettable memories of this unique and captivating West African nation.

Things to Know:

  1. The official language is Portuguese, but Crioulo is widely spoken.
  2. Guinea-Bissau’s currency is the Central African CFA franc (XOF). US dollars are also accepted in many places.
  3. Visa: Most nationalities require a visa to enter Guinea-Bissau. Check with your embassy for up-to-date information.
  4. Transportation: Taxis and shared ‘almoxarifes’ are common modes of transport within cities, while cars with drivers can be arranged for longer trips.