Bissau Bissau, Guinea-bissau Travel Guide
Dry Season (November to May): Hot temperatures with minimal rainfall. Daily highs typically range from 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F). Nighttime lows are around 20°C to 23°C (68°F to 73°F). Rainfall usually totals less than 10 mm per month. Humidity lowers compared to the wet season. Harmattan winds occur from December to February, reducing visibility.
Wet Season (June to October): High temperatures, heavy rainfall, and very high humidity. Daily highs range from 29°C to 32°C (84°F to 90°F). Nighttime lows are warmer, around 23°C to 25°C (73°F to 77°F). Rainfall often exceeds 300 mm per month, with August and September as the wettest. Humidity stays frequently above 80%, creating muggy air.
Heavy rainfall during the wet season may lead to localized flooding in Bissau. This impacts getting around and walking conditions. From December to February, Harmattan winds from the Sahara may reduce visibility and atmospheric quality, occasionally causing respiratory discomfort.
Guinea-Bissau experiences no direct hurricanes or typhoons.
November to February
Cooler, drier weather. Pleasant outdoor exploration. Roads generally in better condition.
Limited accommodation may see higher demand. More visitors present.
March to May, October
Fewer visitors. Potentially lower accommodation prices. October weather improves.
March-May can be uncomfortably hot. October retains some heavy rain risk.
June to September
Lowest prices. Lush, green landscapes.
Heavy rainfall disrupts travel. Roads may become impassable. High humidity and increased mosquito activity.
The dry season, from November to February, is the ideal period. Comfortable weather makes walking and exploring Bissau's streets and markets more enjoyable.
For excursions to the Bijagos Archipelago or other natural areas, the dry season generally works best. Animals gather around fewer where water comes from, making them easier to spot.
Wet season for lush scenery, dry season for unclouded skies and golden light.
October or March-April for fewer crowds, if heat tolerates.
Pack rain gear and Insect repellent.
Dry season has better roads for travel outside Bissau.
Wet season humidity may feel oppressive.
Travel to Guinea-Bissau means attention to entry requirements. Most nationalities need a visa. Start your application well before your trip.
Most nationalities need a visa. Tourist and business visas are common. Apply through a Guinea-Bissau embassy or consulate. An eVisa system exists via the official portal, with varying processing times. Visa on arrival at Osvaldo Vieira International Airport (BXO) is not consistently reliable; securing your visa before travel is strongly suggested.
A valid International Certificate of Vaccination for Yellow Fever is a mandatory entry requirement for all travelers aged 9 months or older.
Upon arrival at Osvaldo Vieira International Airport (BXO), present your passport, valid visa, and Yellow Fever vaccination certificate to immigration officials. They will review your documents and stamp your passport. Be prepared for a potentially slow process.
This section details required vaccinations, common health concerns, and safety advice for your journey.
A valid International Certificate of Vaccination for Yellow Fever is mandatory for entry.
Ensure MMR, Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Polio, and Influenza are up to date.
Recommended for most travelers, especially those eating outside major restaurants.
Malaria risk is high throughout the country, year-round.
Food and watervector-borne illnesses like traveler's diarrhea and typhoid are common. Dengue Fever and Chikungunya are also mosquito-borne concerns.
Schistosomiasis, a parasitic disease, exists in freshwater. Avoid swimming or wading in freshwater lakes and rivers.
Consult your doctor or a travel clinic 4-6 weeks before your trip.
Healthcare facilities in Bissau are limited, especially compared to Western standards. Medical supplies are often scarce.
Emergency services may not always be reliable. Response times may be slow or non-existent.
For serious medical emergencies, medical evacuation to a country with better facilities (e.g., Senegal or Portugal) is often necessary.
Bissau carries a high risk of petty crime and a medium risk of violent crime. Political instability has been a past factor.
During the wet season (From june To october), heavy rains may cause localized flooding. The Harmattan winds (Dec-Feb) may bring dust storms.
Localized flooding disrupts transportation and daily life in Bissau.
Dust storms from Harmattan winds may affect air purity and cause respiratory issues.
Comprehensive travel insurance, including medical evacuation, is strongly recommended. Check World Nomads or SafetyWing for options.
