Guinea

Types of trips: Adventure, Language, Local Culture, History, Nature, Geography

Best known for: Diamond and Gold production, Minerals

Why Go?: While Guinea may have had it's fair share of political and economical troubles, it is a beautiful country with mountains, rainforests and beaches, and a vibrant capital city on an offshore island, connected to the mainland via a pier. Often overlooked in African tourism, it's a unique country with much to see and do!

Fact File

Population: 10,000,000

Capital: Conakry

Language(s): French

Ties to the UK?: Decent relationship

Landscape: Western lowlands, central mountains and forested jungle in the southeast.

Climate/Seasons: Reasonably consistent high temperatures, with a monsoon season running from April - November.

When to Go: The best months to visit in are November and December, when the rains have finished and before dusty winds sweep through the country.

Reasons to Visit: Local languages and culture, diverse landscape and wildlife

How to Get There: There is an international airport that serves the capital city, with various European airlines flying there.

Places to Go: Conakry National Museum, Carafir, Fortin de Boke Museum

Famous People: Alpha Conde, Solomana Kante, Samory Ture, Sekeo Toure

Natural Wonders/Wildlife: Mount Nimba & Mount Nimba Nature Reserve, Fouta Djallon, Alcatraz Island

Architecture: Grand Mosquée de Conakry, Fasial Mosque

Culture: Many ethnic groups with local cultures and traditions, over thirty spoken languages

Sport: Football, Basketball, Athletics

Events: Macao Arts Festival, Kini Afrika, Festival International Kora et Cordes de Conakry

Watch Out For: There is a general risk of local violence, and you will need a visa to travel to Guinea from the UK - at the time of writing most travel to Guinea is advised against because of the outbreak of Ebola in the area. 

Medical Issues: Some vaccines and boosters are advised for travel to Guinea - see here for a good general overview and always consult with a doctor!