Equatorial Guinea

Equatorial Guinea is a destination of startling contrasts, where the charm of old-world Spain meets the untamed pulse of the African jungle. As the only Spanish-speaking nation in Africa, it offers a cultural experience unlike any other on the continent. Spread across a lush volcanic island and a wild mainland territory, it is a land of black-sand beaches, mist-shrouded calderas, and a brand-new “future capital” rising directly out of the rainforest.

For the traveler seeking the path truly less traveled, Equatorial Guinea is a revelation—a place of quiet plazas, world-class chocolate heritage, and some of the most pristine primate habitats in Central Africa.

Why we love Equatorial Guinea

We love Equatorial Guinea for its polished surprises. It is a country that has transitioned from a sleepy outpost to a modern hub of architecture and infrastructure, yet it has kept its natural soul intact. It is the ability to spend your morning in a high-tech golf resort and your afternoon trekking to a volcanic crater lake. It is the scent of drying cacao, the sight of sea turtles nesting on remote shores, and the sophisticated, bilingual spirit of its people that makes this “hidden gem” so compelling.

The Most Beautiful Places in Equatorial Guinea

From the volcanic heights of Bioko to the mainland’s jungle heart:

1. Malabo & Bioko Island

The island capital, Malabo, is a masterclass in colonial preservation. Wander the grid-like streets to see the 19th-century Catedral de Santa Isabel and the historic La Casa Verde. The city is built on the rim of a sunken volcano, giving it a dramatic coastal setting that feels both intimate and grand.

2. Pico Basilé National Park

Dominating the skyline of Bioko Island, Pico Basilé is a dormant volcano that rises over 3,000 meters above sea level. On a clear day, the summit offers panoramic views that stretch across the Atlantic all the way to Mount Cameroon. The drive up the mountain passes through distinct climate zones, from humid jungle to misty alpine forests.

3. Monte Alén National Park

Located on the mainland (Río Muni), Monte Alén is one of Central Africa’s best-kept secrets. This vast rainforest sanctuary is home to forest elephants, gorillas, and chimpanzees. It offers a raw, “safari-on-foot” experience where you can trek through the dense canopy accompanied by expert local trackers.

4. Ureca & The Southern Coast

For a glimpse of the prehistoric, head to the southern tip of Bioko. Ureca is famous for its dramatic waterfalls that tumble directly into the ocean and its wild, black-sand beaches. During the dry season, this remote stretch of coastline becomes a vital nesting ground for Green and Leatherback sea turtles.

5. Ciudad de la Paz (Oyala)

A true modern wonder. Deep in the mainland jungle, the government is building a brand-new administrative capital from scratch. With its futuristic bridges, grand avenues, and the luxury Grand Hotel Djibloho, it feels like a high-tech oasis carved out of an emerald wilderness—a surreal and fascinating stop on any itinerary.

Highlights of a Tour Through Equatorial Guinea

  • The Cacao Heritage: Visit Finca Sampaka, a historic cacao farm dating back to 1906. Learn about the “black gold” that once made the island famous and taste some of the world’s finest artisanal chocolate.
  • The Paseo Marítimo: Join the locals for a sunset stroll along Malabo’s beautiful seafront promenade. It is the perfect spot for people-watching, with views of the old and new ports and the I-love-Equatorial-Guinea sign.
  • Corisco Island: Take a boat to this tiny, secluded island known for its ancient burial sites and white sandy beaches that feel like a private Caribbean paradise in the middle of the Gulf of Guinea.

Essential Travel Tips

  • When to go: The best time to visit is during the dry season (December to February). This is also the peak time for turtle nesting in Ureca and provides the clearest views from Pico Basilé.
  • Visa Information: Equatorial Guinea has recently introduced an e-visa system, making it significantly easier for international travelers to visit this previously hard-to-access nation.
  • Language: Spanish is the official language, which gives the country a familiar feel for many Western travelers. French and Portuguese are also widely used, reflecting the country’s unique position in Central Africa.
  • Currency: The Central African CFA Franc (XAF) is the local currency. While Malabo and Bata have modern banking facilities, cash is preferred once you head into the national parks or smaller towns.