Guinea-Bissau is a small but travel-worthy country in West Africa. It’s not the easiest place to get around, but if you’re up for an adventure, the challenge is part of the experience. Whether you’re using public transport or renting a car, you’ll need some key information to navigate safely and efficiently.
Public Transportation in Guinea-Bissau
Public transportation in Guinea-Bissau is basic but functional. The most common way to get around is by minibuses, known as “toca-tocas”. These minibuses are often packed with people, so comfort won’t be your top priority here. On the plus side, prices are dirt cheap. A short ride will cost you less than $1 USD. However, don’t expect much, if any, reliability or timeliness with these.
The minibuses tend to leave their starting point only when full, which can leave you waiting for a while. They also make frequent stops, picking up and dropping off passengers along the way. This can significantly increase travel time. If you’re not in a rush, the experience is worth it as it’s the most common way locals travel.
Cost of Public Transportation
Minibuses are by far the cheapest way to get around in Guinea-Bissau. Prices vary depending on the distance, but as mentioned, they are very affordable. A trip across town usually costs less than $1 USD.
If you’re on a set budget and trying to travel as cheaply as possible, this is your best option.
Reliability and Safety
As you might expect, the toca-tocas aren’t known for their reliability. You could be waiting a while both for it to fill up and for the ride itself to complete. Also, the minibuses are sometimes not in the best condition due to limited infrastructure.
When it comes to safety, keep an eye on your belongings. Like many places where public transportation is crowded, pickpocketing can happen. But overall, Guinea-Bissau is a fairly safe place when it comes to personal safety. Use common sense, and you’ll likely just encounter friendly locals on your journey.
Taxis in Guinea-Bissau
If you want a bit more comfort and speed, taxis are a decent option. In the capital, Bissau, taxis are pretty common. Most don’t use meters though, so you need to agree on the fare before getting in.
Prices for taxis are generally reasonable, but it depends on your negotiation skills. A short ride across town might cost $2-4 USD. For longer rides outside the capital, rates will increase, so be prepared.
Getting Around with Taxis
In cities like Bissau, taxis are a lot more reliable than the minibuses. The convenience is greater, but negotiating the price can sometimes be a hassle. Don’t be afraid to haggle, especially if you think the driver is charging a hefty “tourist rate”.
Make sure you have small change in cash, as many drivers won’t have the ability to break larger bills.
Safety Tips for Taking Taxis
As with most places, it’s smart to be cautious when taking taxis. Always agree on a price beforehand and avoid getting into taxis that feel unsafe or have too many passengers for your liking. Stick to taxis recommended by your accommodation if possible.
Rideshare Services in Guinea-Bissau
Unfortunately, Guinea-Bissau doesn’t have well-established rideshare services like Uber or Bolt. Your options are limited in this area, though there are some unofficial private drivers who can act as a sort of rideshare. Just ask around at your hotel or hostel, and you’ll likely find someone offering private driving services.
The prices for these unofficial rides can vary and, much like taxis, you’ll need to negotiate the rate upfront. This option can be a bit more expensive than regular taxis.
Availability and Safety
Since Guinea-Bissau isn’t set up for rideshare apps, you’ll have to rely on referrals and your own judgment when using private drivers. Be cautious, but it can also be a more comfortable and direct way to get where you need to go if you’re ready to negotiate the price ahead of time.
Renting a Car in Guinea-Bissau
If you’re the type who likes more freedom, you might consider renting a car. It’s possible to rent vehicles in Bissau through a few local rental agencies. International companies don’t operate much here, so you’ll mostly be dealing with local or small-scale firms.
Expect to pay around $50-100 USD per day, depending on the type of vehicle and how long you’ll need it. See if you can negotiate a discount for longer rentals. Be sure to inquire about insurance, as policies might not always be as comprehensive as they would be with global rental companies.
Driving Conditions
Driving in Guinea-Bissau comes with its own unique challenges. Roads are generally in poor condition, especially outside the capital. You’ll encounter many potholes, and few roads are well-paved. If you’re planning to explore rural areas, having a 4×4 vehicle is a must. Rainy season (June-October) can make roads nearly impassable in some areas, so be mindful of that.
Also, when driving outside of cities, street signs are rare. Google Maps can help, but remember that it sometimes lacks detailed coverage of Guinea-Bissau. Additionally, you’ll come across police checkpoints fairly often outside of urban areas. As long as your documentation is in order, you shouldn’t face any trouble. Just have your driver’s license, vehicle papers, and passport ready.
Cost of Fuel
Fuel prices fluctuate but typically hover around $1 USD per liter. That’s about $4 per gallon. There are a few gas stations in Bissau, but finding one on the road outside the main cities can be tough. If you plan on driving long distances, it’s good to fill up whenever you have the chance.
Tips for Car Rentals
Since the roads can get rough, it’s best to rent a vehicle with higher clearance. A 4×4 vehicle, while more expensive, will make driving a lot easier. Make sure to inspect the car thoroughly before you take it out of the rental lot. Check if there’s any pre-existing damage and ensure that both you and the rental agency are clear on that.
Lastly, take note that Guinea-Bissau drives on the right side of the road, as is common in most of the world. However, traffic laws are not always closely followed by other drivers, and you might find people driving unpredictably. Stay alert at all times.
Is Renting a Car Worth It?
If you’re planning to stay close to the main cities like Bissau, renting a car might not be necessary. Taxis or toca-tocas can serve you fine. However, if you plan to explore more remote areas, then renting a car gives you freedom and flexibility. A day trip to places like Cacheu or the Orango Islands almost necessitates your own transport.
But keep in mind that driving is not for everyone, especially in a place like Guinea-Bissau where infrastructure is lacking. If you’re not comfortable driving in uncertain road conditions, you’re probably better off sticking with taxis.
Final Words
Getting around Guinea-Bissau can be an adventure in itself. Whether you opt for the inexpensive public buses or go for the comfort of renting a car, travel requires some extra effort here. Just be prepared, stay patient, and embrace the local experience. That’s what makes traveling in Guinea-Bissau so rewarding.
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