Equatorial Guinea may not be a top destination on everyone’s travel list, but it offers beautiful landscapes, vibrant cities, and diverse wildlife. It’s a photographer’s dream. If you’re someone who loves capturing moments, this guide will help you snap the best photos and videos while in Equatorial Guinea.
Best Locations for Photography in Equatorial Guinea
Malabo
Start your journey in Malabo, the capital of Equatorial Guinea. The city blends Spanish colonial architecture with modern-day structures. The Cathedral of Malabo and the President’s Palace are architectural highlights you shouldn’t miss. Capture these in late afternoon light, so you get softer shadows and a warm glow on the historic buildings.
Pico Basilé
Head to Pico Basilé for panoramic views of the island of Bioko, where Malabo is located. The peak is part of the country’s highest mountain at over 3,000 meters. Go at sunrise or sunset. The early morning fog lends a magical feel to your photos, while the golden hour in the evening paints the landscape in brilliant hues.
Moca Valley
If you’re into nature photography, Moca Valley is a must-visit. This lush green area is perfect for landscape shots, waterfalls, and mountain views. Hike around the area and be ready to capture local life as well, with farmers herding livestock and kids playing near streams.
Annobón Island
For a more remote and untouched location, head to Annobón Island. Its volcanic landscapes and pristine beaches make it ideal for both drone shots and traditional photography. It’s best to shoot early in the morning, when the light hits the turquoise waters just right, and fewer tourists are around.
Monte Alen National Park
This park is ideal for wildlife photography. You’ll find gorillas, elephants, and a wide range of bird species in their natural habitat. Keep your distance and bring a zoom lens or use your phone’s zoom capability. Shoot in the mornings or late afternoons, when the animals are most active and the light is soft.
Best Times to Take Photos
The Golden Hour

The golden hour, which is the hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset, is the best time for almost any photography. The light is soft, warm, and easier to play with. Colors pop more naturally, and shadows are not as harsh. Plan your outdoor shots during these times for the best results.
Avoid Midday Sun
Midday light is harsh. It creates hard shadows and overexposed highlights, especially in tropical countries like Equatorial Guinea. If you must shoot during this time, try finding shaded areas or use a neutral-density filter to soften the exposure.
Overcast Days
Overcast days can sometimes create the best lighting conditions. The clouds act like a giant softbox, diffusing the sunlight so it’s even and gentle. Your colors will appear more natural without the contrast being too harsh.
Cultural Considerations When Taking Photos
Respecting Local People
When photographing local people, always ask for permission before pointing your camera. Equatorial Guinea has cultural norms where taking someone’s photo without asking can come off as disrespectful. A simple smile and asking “¿Puedo tomar una foto?” (Can I take a photo?) goes a long way.
Religious Sites
While it’s tempting to take photos at religious sites like churches, make sure you’re not disrupting services or intruding on people’s private moments. Avoid using flash during ceremonies and check for any “No Photography” signs before shooting.
Government Buildings
Equatorial Guinea is strict about photography around government buildings and military zones. Always check if photos are allowed in these areas. If in doubt, ask a local or play it safe by not photographing these locations.
Local Customs and Traditions
Certain ceremonies and gatherings, especially in rural areas, are highly personal. Be attentive and respectful. If you’re lucky enough to witness a local dance or celebration, observe first and approach people respectfully before taking your camera out.

Equipment Recommendations for Capturing High-Quality Images
DSLR or Mirrorless Camera
If you’re serious about photography, bring a DSLR or mirrorless camera. You’ll have full control over settings like aperture, ISO, and shutter speed. A 24-70mm lens is versatile enough for most shooting situations, from landscapes to portraits.
Smartphone Photography Tips
If you prefer to travel light, a new smartphone will do the job. Phones like the iPhone 13 or Samsung Galaxy S21 have excellent cameras equipped with wide-angle, portrait, and night modes. Here are a few tips:
- Use the gridlines feature to compose better. It helps align your shot.
- Tap on the brightest part of the image to balance the exposure.
- Use portrait mode for sharp, detailed close-ups of people, food, and objects.
Drone Photography
If you’re into aerial photography, Equatorial Guinea’s diverse landscapes make it an ideal place to use drones. However, always check the local regulations as flying drones in protected areas like national parks or military zones may not be allowed. DJI Mini or Mavic models are some of the best options for travel.
Tripod for Stability
If you’re into long exposures or night photography, bring a compact tripod. A tripod helps you capture sharp images, especially in low-light conditions. Even for smartphone photography, a mini phone tripod can be helpful.

Photography Ideas to Try in Equatorial Guinea
Landscape Photography at the Coast
Equatorial Guinea’s coastline is stunning. Ocean waves crashing against volcanic rocks contrast beautifully against the blue waters. Try taking long-exposure shots to smooth the motion of the water. To do this, manually set a slow shutter speed on your camera or use a special long-exposure app on your phone.
Wildlife Photography in Rainforests
Monte Alén National Park or other rainforests are the best places for wildlife shots. Bring a telephoto lens and stay patient. Wildlife photography is unpredictable, so don’t rush. Practice using “burst mode” on your camera or smartphone to capture fast-moving animals.
Street Photography in Malabo Markets
The local markets in Malabo are buzzing with life. Be respectful, but don’t be afraid to photograph vibrant street scenes, colorful fruits, and people haggling for goods. Stand at a corner of the market for 10-15 minutes and let the action unfold in front of you. Sometimes the best shots come when you’re just observing.

Sunsets over Rivers and Lakes
Equatorial Guinea’s rivers and lakes, like those surrounded by densely forested areas, offer beautiful reflections during sunset. Capture the changing colors of the sky and the water. Get there at least an hour before sunset to get a good vantage point.
Editing Tips for Enhancing Your Photos
Once your photos are taken, a little editing can make all the difference. Here are a few basic tips:
- Lightroom or VSCO: Use a photo-editing app like Adobe Lightroom or VSCO. Both allow you to adjust colors, contrast, and exposure.
- Avoid Over-Editing: Don’t go too heavy on saturation or contrast. Keeping the look natural is key, especially when you’re photographing nature or people.
- Cropping: Sometimes a good crop can make your composition even stronger. Crop out distractions that pull attention away from your subject.
Final Thoughts
Photographing Equatorial Guinea can be incredibly rewarding. Its beauty, from urban centers to remote islands, will fill every memory card you brought. Remember to respect the local culture, capture the moment, and most importantly, enjoy the process.
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