Bissau
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Only have a day? See 2 ready-made day plans ↓10 places on the map
Top 10
- 1
Lively main market for food, cloth and everyday goods.
- Tip: Go early
2 tips
- Keep valuables hidden
- Bargain politely
📷 Photos
- 2
Colonial fort overlooking the river, with Cabral mausoleum.
3 tips
- Ask permission to enter
- Do not photograph soldiers
- Visit by day
📷 Photos
- 3
Main Catholic cathedral in the city centre.
- Tip: Dress code
2 tips
- Avoid Sunday mass hours
- Pair with a walk in the old town
📷 Photos
- 4
Memorial to the 1959 dockers' strike near the port.
3 tips
- Go with a local for context
- Respect the memorial
- Visit by day
📷 Photos
- 5
Museum of the ethnic cultures of Guinea-Bissau.
3 tips
- Call ahead to confirm opening
- Allow about an hour
- Ask about photography rules
📷 Photos
- 6
Central square with a monument to national heroes.
3 tips
- Good starting point
- Avoid photographing officials
- Visit by day
📷 Photos
- 7
Former colonial capital with atmospheric crumbling buildings.
3 tips
- Take the ferry or boat from Bissau
- Plan overnight
- Check boat times in advance
📷 Photos
- 8
Main island of the Bijagós archipelago, a gateway to the islands.
- Tip: Book ahead
2 tips
- Take the ferry from Bissau
- Bring cash
📷 Photos
- 9
Working port and departure point for river and island boats.
3 tips
- Photography may be restricted
- Confirm boat times in advance
- Keep valuables close
📷 Photos
- 10
Historic fort town and nature park on the Cacheu River.
3 tips
- Allow a day trip
- Hire a driver
- Bring cash and water
📷 Photos
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Before you go: Bissau tips
Transportation
- Use shared taxis: Blue and white shared taxis run around Bissau on set routes; agree the fare before getting in.
- Take the boat to Bijagos: Boats and pirogues to the Bijagos Islands leave from the port; check schedules locally and choose safe operators.
- Arrange airport transfers: Ask your hotel to arrange a pickup from the airport for a smoother arrival.
Security
- Stay alert after dark: Petty theft can occur; use taxis at night and avoid poorly lit streets.
- Check political news: The country has had instability; stay updated on local news and your embassy's advice.
- Protect against malaria: Malaria is present year-round, so use repellent, sleep under nets and consult a doctor before travel.
Saving
- Eat local dishes: Simple eateries serve rice with fish or chicken at modest prices compared to hotel restaurants.
- Carry CFA francs in cash: ATMs and card acceptance are limited, so bring enough West African CFA francs.
- Bargain at markets: Prices at the Bandim market are negotiable; bargain politely for goods and crafts.
Weather/Clothing
- Expect heat and humidity: Bissau is hot year-round; wear light, breathable clothing.
- Plan for the rainy season: Heavy rains fall from about June to October, which can flood roads.
- Protect from the sun: Bring a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water, especially in the dry season.
Cultural
- Learn some Kriol or Portuguese: Portuguese is official and Kriol is widely spoken; a few phrases help greatly.
- Try cashew products: Guinea-Bissau is a major cashew producer, and local cashew juice and nuts are worth trying.
- Enjoy Carnival: Bissau's Carnival features colourful masks and parades, a highlight of the cultural calendar.
Local Hacks
- Visit Bissau Velho: The old colonial quarter near the port has faded architecture and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Ask hotels for help: Local hotels can help arrange boats, drivers and guides, which are hard to book online.
- Bring small notes: Small bills are easier for taxis and markets, as change can be hard to find.
1-day itineraries in Bissau
Only have a day? Each one keeps you in one area, from morning to late afternoon, with lunch nearby.
Day 1 of 2
Bolama and around
🕘 9:30–16:45📍 7 stops
- 1Bolama
- 2Memorial do Cais de Pidjiguiti
- 3Mausoléu de Amílcar Cabral
- 4Fortaleza de São José da Amura
- 5Porto de Bissau
- and 2 more
Day 2 of 2
Mercado de Bandim and around
🕘 9:30–14:15📍 4 stops
- 1Mercado de Bandim
- 2Catedral de Bissau
- 3Praça dos Heróis Nacionais
- 4Museu Etnográfico Nacional