Day 1: Bissau – Arrival and Exploring the Capital
Touch down in Bissau, the capital of Guinea-Bissau. After checking into your accommodation, take the rest of the day to relax and adjust.
In the afternoon, explore the city’s colonial quarter. You’ll be able to see buildings from the Portuguese era, like the Presidential Palace and the Bissau Velho (Old Bissau) district.
Stop by Fortaleza d’Amura, an old fort that has a ton of history. You’ll also get a sense of Guinea-Bissau’s independence movement here, as it houses memorials for national heroes.
Finish your day with a relaxed dinner at one of the local restaurants. Try some of the local dishes, like jollof rice or grilled fish. Don’t forget to try calabash juice.
Day 2: Bissau – Continuation and Cultural Experiences
Start your day with a visit to the National Ethnographic Museum. This small but informative museum will give you deeper insight into the diverse cultures of the country.
If it’s a weekend, spend some time exploring the Bandim Market after. It’s one of the largest markets in the area, where you can shop for local goods and snacks. It’s crowded, so keep an eye on your belongings but the energy is infectious.
Next, head to the nearby Port of Bissau. You’ll get a nice view of the water and see some local life by the port.
In the evening, you can join a cultural performance if available. Ask at your hotel about live music or dance performances in the area. Guinea-Bissau’s music scene is quite vibrant, and catching a concert is an unforgettable experience.
Day 3: Bolama Island – Colonial Ruins
Today, you’ll take a short boat ride to Bolama Island. It’s a former capital of Portuguese Guinea, and it has some cool crumbling colonial buildings. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you wander the old town square.
It’s not all ruins though. You can still see a few charming functioning shops and homes. The relaxed pace of life here makes it a nice contrast to Bissau.
Grab lunch at a simple beachside café and spend the afternoon enjoying the serenity of the island. Bolama is also known for its untouched landscapes, so make sure to walk along its quiet beaches. Dip your feet in the calm waters to cool off from the heat.
Return to Bissau in the evening and wind down.
Day 4: Bijagos Archipelago – Orango Island Exploration
Today, you’ll head out early for a trip to the Bijagos Archipelago. Get ready for a completely different environment: unspoiled nature and wildlife. Your destination is Orango Island, part of Orango National Park. It’s known for its saltwater hippos, which are pretty unique.
Spend the day exploring the island with a guide. If you’re into nature, you may spot monkeys, antelope, or crocodiles. The island’s mangroves and forests are very picturesque.
Have lunch prepared at one of the eco-lodges on the island. In the afternoon, you can visit local villages and learn about the customs of the Bijagos people.
Stay overnight in an eco-lodge to fully experience the tranquility of the islands.
Day 5: Bijagos Archipelago – Beach and Relaxation
Wake up to the sound of waves and spend the day relaxing. The beaches on the Bijagos Islands are stunning, with white sand and clear waters.
You can spend the day lounging, swimming, or snorkeling. The islands’ waters are teeming with marine life, so if you’re up for it, bring some snorkeling gear or book a snorkeling tour.
For lunch, ask your lodge to prepare a local meal. Many of the lodges source their food locally, so it’s a good chance to try fresh seafood.
In the evening, take a quiet walk along the beach and watch the sunset. Keep your evening simple and enjoy the peaceful nature around you.
Day 6: Cacheu – History and Mangroves
Head back to the mainland today and take a trip north to Cacheu. This small town has a lot of historical significance since it was one of the oldest Portuguese settlements on the West African coast.
Start with a visit to the Cacheu Fort. The small museum inside will walk you through the history of the trans-Atlantic slave trade, which was once centered there. It’s a somber but important part of the country’s history.
Spend some time walking around the town after, especially near the Cacheu River. If you’re into nature, consider a boat tour down the river. You’ll see the massive mangroves that are home to lots of bird species. It’s a good way to break up the day and get a taste of the local ecosystem.
Spend the night in Cacheu, where there are a few local guesthouses available.
Day 7: Saltinho Waterfalls and Farewell
On your final day, make your way back toward Bissau. On the way, stop at Saltinho Waterfalls. The falls are small, but the surrounding area is lush and beautiful, making it a great spot for photos or a picnic. It’s a peaceful place to rest before heading back to the city.
After a few hours at the falls, return to Bissau. You’ll probably have some time to squeeze in a final meal and souvenir hunt before heading to the airport.
Take it easy and reflect on your trip as you prepare to leave. Guinea-Bissau isn’t on everyone’s travel radar, but its mix of culture, history, and natural beauty makes it a gem worth discovering.
Safe travels!
Leave a reply