Electricity

Electrical outlets in Guinea-Bissau supply electricity at between 220 and 240 volts. European two-pin plugs with round pins are standard. The electricity supply is not reliable.

Language

Portuguese is the official language of Guinea-Bissau, but Kriol is the most widely spoken language. French is also understood and spoken by many locals.

Money

The West African CFA franc is the currency of Guinea-Bissau (and seven other West African countries). Guinea-Bissau is one of the poorest countries in the world and banking facilities are limited. There are few ATMs in the country and credit cards are very seldom if ever accepted. The easiest foreign currency to exchange is Euros, although US dollars are also usually exchangeable. It can be difficult to convert foreign currency of any kind outside of the capital, Bissau.

Tipping

Tipping is optional in Guinea-Bissau but small amounts for good service are highly appreciated. Ten percent is a good rule of thumb for service in restaurants.

Health

Medical facilities in Guinea-Bissau are limited, especially outside cities. Travellers should ensure they have comprehensive health insurance and bring necessary medications with a doctor's letter. They should also avoid tap water unless boiled, filtered, or disinfected, and they should avoid ice as well. Malaria is common, so prophylaxis is recommended. A yellow fever vaccination is required for those arriving from infected areas and recommended for all visitors. Vaccinations for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and, if travelling in the dry season, meningococcus are also advised.

Safety

Guinea-Bissau is one of West Africa's poorest countries, with unstable politics, widespread corruption, and minimal police presence, allowing crime and drug cartels to thrive. While the situation is currently calm after a 2012 military coup, it can change quickly. Visitors should avoid political gatherings, stay on well-travelled roads due to landmines, and be cautious of petty crime, especially at night in urban areas. Armed banditry occurs on highways, and consular support is limited due to few embassies.

Local customs

Travellers to Guinea-Bissau will find a generally open, relaxed society, which values friendliness and camaraderie. Social conduct and dress codes will be familiar to Western travellers, although among the Muslim section of the population (thought to be about 40 percent), more conservative values are upheld. Travellers should not photograph military buildings; when in doubt they should always ask permission to take photos.

Doing business

Guinea-Bissau's economy depends heavily on foreign aid and is predominantly agricultural. Business etiquette is quite formal: men should wear lightweight suits (ties are usually optional rather than expected) and women should wear skirts of modest length. It is customary to exchange business cards and shake hands upon greeting. Formal titles and surnames should be used unless invited to use first names. Business hours are generally 8am to 12pm and 3pm to 6pm Monday to Friday.

Duty free

Visitors to Guinea-Bissau may import a reasonable quantity of tobacco products and perfume in opened bottles.

Communications

Telecommunications in Guinea-Bissau are limited, with landline use very low and mobile phone usage more common and increasing. The majority of the population has little or no access to the internet, but travellers can find internet cafes in Bissau and other major cities. The international dialling code is +245, and city codes are in use for local calls.

Passport & Visa

Foreign travellers to Guinea-Bissau must show proof of sufficient funds and documentation for onward travel. Entering with a one-way ticket is allowed but may be questioned by immigration. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if arriving within six days of leaving or transiting through yellow fever-risk areas. It's recommended that passports have at least six months' validity beyond your planned departure. Immigration officials may apply rules differently from what is stated by travel agents or official sources.

Entry requirements

US citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Guinea-Bissau. A visa is required and can be purchased upon entry for a maximum stay of 90 days.

British citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Guinea-Bissau. A visa is required and can be purchased upon entry for a maximum stay of 90 days.

Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Guinea-Bissau. A visa is required and can be purchased upon entry for a maximum stay of 90 days.

Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Guinea-Bissau. A visa is required and can be purchased upon entry for a maximum stay of 90 days.

South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Guinea-Bissau. A visa is required and can be purchased upon arrival for a maximum stay of 90 days.

Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Guinea-Bissau. A visa is required and can be purchased upon entry for a maximum stay of 90 days.

New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Guinea-Bissau. A visa is required and can be purchased upon entry for a maximum stay of 90 days.

Useful contacts

Guinea Bissau Tourism Office: tourismgb.com

In case of emergency, travellers should contact family or friends, their embassy, travel agent or insurance provider depending on their need.