Question 1

Google Maps (offline download)

Accepted Answer

Download offline maps before arrival; internet connectivity is inconsistent and maps help navigate Bissau and rural areas.

Question 2

Local SIM card (Orange, MTN, Guinetel)

Accepted Answer

Buy a SIM at the airport or in Bissau for reliable mobile data and calls; Orange and MTN offer the best coverage.

Question 3

International roaming or eSIM

Accepted Answer

If you prefer not to buy a local SIM, enable roaming or purchase an eSIM before departure; local data is cheap but roaming rates are high.

Question 4

Passport validity

Accepted Answer

Guinea-Bissau requires a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay; check expiry now and renew if needed.

Question 5

Visa on arrival or pre-arranged

Accepted Answer

Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival (around $50–100 USD) or arrange one in advance; check your nationality's specific requirements.

Question 6

Yellow fever vaccination

Accepted Answer

Yellow fever vaccination is recommended (and may be required for onward travel to other African countries); obtain certificate before departure.

Question 7

Malaria prophylaxis

Accepted Answer

Malaria is endemic; start antimalarial medication (e.g. atovaquone-proguanil, doxycycline) 1–2 days before arrival and continue as prescribed.

Question 8

Typhoid & hepatitis A vaccination

Accepted Answer

Both diseases are present; ensure you are vaccinated or have immunity before travel.

Question 9

Travel health insurance

Accepted Answer

Medical facilities are limited; obtain comprehensive travel insurance covering evacuation, as serious cases may require transport to Senegal or Portugal.

Question 10

Drinking water safety

Accepted Answer

Tap water is not reliably safe; drink only bottled, boiled, or purified water and avoid ice in drinks.

Question 11

West African CFA franc (XOF)

Accepted Answer

Guinea-Bissau uses the CFA franc; withdraw cash at Bissau airport ATMs or in town, as card acceptance is limited outside the capital.

Question 12

Cash in hand

Accepted Answer

Most vendors, transport, and rural areas accept only cash; carry small denominations and keep emergency funds separate.

Question 13

Mobile money (Orange Money, MTN Mobile Money)

Accepted Answer

Orange Money and MTN Mobile Money are used locally for transfers; useful if you have a local SIM, but not essential for tourists.

Question 14

Best season: November to May

Accepted Answer

Dry season offers the best weather; avoid June–October (rainy season) when roads flood and transport is disrupted.

Question 15

Greetings and respect

Accepted Answer

Greet elders first, use right hand for handshakes and eating, and ask permission before photographing people.

Question 16

Pack for humidity and insects

Accepted Answer

Bring lightweight, breathable clothing, insect repellent (DEET), and a mosquito net; humidity is high year-round.

Question 17

Emergency number: 112

Accepted Answer

Call 112 for police, ambulance, or fire; response times may be slow, so contact your embassy or hotel immediately in emergencies.

Question 18

Petty theft and bag-snatching

Accepted Answer

Avoid displaying cash, jewellery, or cameras; use hotel safes and keep valuables out of sight, especially in Bissau.

Question 19

LGBTQ+ legal context

Accepted Answer

Same-sex relations are not explicitly criminalized but social acceptance is low; exercise discretion and avoid public displays of affection.

Question 20

Dress modestly

Accepted Answer

Wear modest clothing, especially outside Bissau; avoid revealing attire to show respect and reduce unwanted attention.

Guinea-Bissau, as a local

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