Welcome to Equitorial Guinea

Capital: Malabo

Population: 740,743 (2015)

Currency: Central African CFA franc (XAF)

Official Languages: Spanish (National Language), French, Portugese

Drive Side: Right

Timezone: WAT (UTC+1)

Calling code: +240

Equatorial Guinea offers a rare opportunity to experience central Africa’s colonial history and unspoiled natural beauty. The capital, Malabo offers a laid back approach to life unlike its African counterparts. However, the streets are the best place in the country to encounter the architectural wonders left by the colonial regime of the Spanish.

The country's rainforests are renowned for their biodiversity and hiking opportunities while also being the habitat of endangered primates including mandrills, chimpanzees and gorillas, as well as forest elephants. The crater lakes of Lago Lorento and Lago Biao which can be found on Bioko Island are ideal spots for relaxation and birdwatching.

Visitors can also enjoy the hospitable nature of locals who are ever ready to offer assitance while putting on their welcoming smiles.

Information & Facts

Attraction Overview

Arena Blanca

The Arena blanca is the only white beach on Bioko Island. During the dry season, thousands of butterflies can be seen- which makes it a lovely sight to behold.

Malabo

In the capital city of Malabo- a small but attractive town, you can explore the city and checkout the pleasant Spanish colonial architecture, beautiful open plazas and a lively market.

Monte Alen National Park

This fascinating National Park offers the opportunity to explore and feel nature. With an area spanning 1, 400 sq km (540 sq miles), the park is accessible via a series of trails through the jungle and is inhabited by elephants, leopards and several bird species.

Business

Spanish is the language used in conducting business in Equatorial Guinea, only a few people speak English or French.

The country's major exports include: Petroleum, methanol, timber, coffee, cocoa, bananas and spices.

Climate

Equatorial Guinea experiences tropical climate all year round. While rainfall is heavy for most of the year, it slightly decreases in most areas between December and February.

Lightweight cottons and linens are the required clothing here. Waterproofing is necessary.

Communications

There exists roaming agreements with international mobile operators, so you can use your mobile phone in Malabo and other areas.

Internet services are available in Malabo and other main areas while major hotels offer internet access.

Getting Around

Moving around by road is possible in Equatorial Guinea. The roads are good on the whole and traffic is light. However, you need to know police and military roadblocks are common; you may need to show your passport, driving licence and/or vehicle registration and explain your reason for travelling.

There are domestic flights between the capital- Malabo and Bata. Punto Azul and Ceiba Intercontinental are two airlines that fly this route.

Language

The official languages are Spanish and French. The main African dialects spoken are Fang and Bubi (which is common on Bioko).

Money

The CFA is the currency for transaction. Credit cards are not accepted here as the country operates a strict cash-only economic policy.

ATMs are not available

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Welcome to Equitorial Guinea

Information & Facts