Day 1: Arrive in Bissau
Welcome to Guinea-Bissau! Start your trip by arriving in its capital, Bissau. This city is small but charming, with a mix of Portuguese heritage and West African culture.
After you check into your hotel, take a walk around the city’s old quarter. The streets have an old colonial vibe, with pastel buildings and tree-lined avenues. Visit the Presidential Palace and the Bissau Velho. There’s a calm, laid-back energy here, and it’s a perfect way to start your trip.
In the evening, grab a meal at one of the local restaurants. Try some traditional Guinea-Bissau dishes, like jollof rice or grilled fish.
Day 2: Explore Bissau’s Culture
Spend your second day diving deeper into Bissau’s culture. Head to the National Ethnographic Museum for an introduction to the different ethnic groups in the country. The museum gives insight into the traditional customs, tales, and art of Guinea-Bissau’s diverse culture.
In the afternoon, visit more of the city’s laid-back markets. Mercado de Bandim is a bustling market where you can buy local food, handicrafts, and textiles.
Take the rest of the day to wander the city and relax. The slow pace of life in Bissau is contagious, so don’t rush anything.
Day 3: Day Trip to Safim Village
Today, take a short trip to the nearby village of Safim, located just 20 minutes from Bissau. This village gives you a glimpse of agrarian life in Guinea-Bissau.
Explore the farms, meet the locals, and learn more about the daily way of life in a rural village. You can also visit a local school or house if you’re invited. Safim offers an authentic experience away from the city.
Head back to Bissau in the evening and enjoy a quiet dinner near the port area.
Day 4: Road Trip to Bafatá
Leave the capital and head towards Bafatá, the birthplace of Amílcar Cabral, the prominent figure in Guinea-Bissau’s independence movement. The road trip takes around three hours.
Bafatá is surrounded by greenery and rivers. Visit Cabral’s birthplace and learn more about the history of this small but significant town.
Take some time to listen to local musicians or watch traditional dancers in town. You’ll find that Guinea-Bissau thrives on its music and oral traditions.
Day 5: Mandinga Nature Reserve
Today is all about nature! Drive to Mandinga Nature Reserve, located close to Bafatá. Explore the area, hike, and try some birdwatching. This reserve is home to various bird species, including herons and hawks.
If you are lucky, you may spot some small wildlife, such as monkeys or gazelles. The reserve’s pristine beauty is refreshing, and it’s a peaceful escape into nature. Spend the rest of your day taking in the serene environment.
Day 6: Travel to Gabu
Spend this morning making your way east to the town of Gabu. It’s a journey of about two hours, and the area has a distinct cultural feel.
Gabu is home to the Fula people, and you’ll immediately notice the difference in language and traditions. Visit the local market, which is smaller than Bissau’s but more personal.
Spend some time meeting locals and learning about the Fula’s way of life, food, and customs. This part of Guinea-Bissau is off the tourist path, offering a genuine experience.
Day 7: Trip to the Saltinho Waterfall
Take a day trip from Gabu to visit the Saltinho Waterfall. It’s a beautiful spot where you can enjoy a picnic or a refreshing dip in the water.
The fall isn’t massive, but it’s a great place to relax, especially when you’re surrounded by nothing but nature and the sound of falling water.
After spending some time at the waterfall, head back to Gabu and spend the rest of your day wandering around town or just relaxing.
Day 8: Journey to São Domingos
On Day 8, journey northwest to São Domingos, located near the border with Senegal. This will be roughly a four-hour trip, but the scenery on the way is beautiful.
São Domingos is a small and relaxed town. Spend the day wandering around the market, relaxing by the river, and enjoying this slow-paced area of Guinea-Bissau.
There’s little tourism here, so it’s a great chance to have an off-the-beaten-path experience.
Day 9: Guinea-Bissau’s Island Nation – Bolama
From São Domingos, take a boat to Bolama Island, the former capital of Guinea-Bissau under Portuguese rule.
The island is often described as a forgotten paradise. The colonial town has sadly been left to decay, but its faded charm is captivating. Stroll through the quiet, crumbling streets, and visit the old government buildings.
There are white sandy beaches to relax on, plus you’re likely to have most of the beach to yourself. The atmosphere on Bolama is super chilled, and it’s easy to just spend the entire day lounging by the sea.
Day 10: Bolama to Rubane Island
Hop on a boat and head to Rubane Island, part of the Bijagós Archipelago. Rubane is home to some gorgeous beaches and is less frequented than the main islands in the area.
Rubane is a great place to spend a day swimming, sunbathing, or maybe going snorkeling if you’re up for it. There are eco-friendly resorts on the island, making it a perfect spot for relaxation after a week of travel.
Day 11: Visit Orango Island
Take a ride to Orango Island, another part of the amazing Bijagós Archipelago. Orango is famous for its hippos – yes, there are saltwater hippos here!
Go on a boat tour to try and spot these elusive animals, and keep your eyes peeled for other wildlife, like birds and antelopes. Orango is also special for its unique matriarchal society; women take the lead here when it comes to family and property!
End your day with a beach walk or another snorkeling session. Orango is simply peaceful.
Day 12: Back to Bissau
Make your return to Bissau today, taking a boat back to the mainland from the Bijagós. This will be a relaxing day to wind down after some adventurous island hopping.
Spend the day wandering around the streets of Bissau again, maybe finding a café to sit in and people-watch.
Use the evening to revisit any favorite spots you’ve found in the capital or enjoy one last local meal in the city center.
Day 13: Day Trip to Cacheu
Take a day trip from Bissau to Cacheu, which is about a two-hour drive away. Cacheu was once a major Portuguese military town and is rich in history.
You can visit the Cacheu Fortress and explore remnants of the town’s role in the transatlantic slave trade. There are still signs of the Portuguese colonial history everywhere.
You can end the day by exploring the riverbanks or seeing the mangroves that surround the town.
Day 14: Departure
It’s time to wrap up your Guinea-Bissau adventure. If your flight is later in the day, spend some time picking up last-minute souvenirs or strolling around Bissau one more time.
Enjoy your final hours in this peaceful country before heading to the airport to catch your flight. Thanks for spending 14 amazing days here!
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