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- Destinations
- Africa
- Guinea
Guinea
Those who travel to the Republic of Guinea will find this
beautiful and intriguing west African country to be a fantastic
getaway destination.
Surrounded by Guinea-Bissau, Senegal, Mali, Côte d'Ivoire,
Liberia and Sierra Leone, the country has somewhat illogical
borders that are a relic of the colonial era when this region was
shared out between European powers. Today those borders enclose a
very diverse population of ethnic and linguistic groups, and a
varied terrain that ranges from expansive savannah in the south to
the mountainous, heavily forested highlands in the north-west.
Indeed Guinea's chief attraction is its spectacular and mostly
unspoiled natural scenery. West Africa's three great rivers - the
Gambia, the Senegal and the Niger - all originate here. The
splendid Guinea Highlands is centered around Mount Nimba, the
highest point in the country, while the Fouta Djalon highlands is
renowned for its incredible views and superb hiking. Other places
of interest in Guinea include the spiritual centre of Kankan, the
high altitude town of Dalaba, party-mad Faranah, and the incredible
beaches of Cape Verga.
The population is mostly Muslim, French speaking and rural, with
the exception of the pleasant and relatively cosmopolitan capital
Conakry, located on the island of Tombo. The city is renowned for
its lively music scene and attractive layout.
Guinea's climate is tropical but mild with constant temperatures
throughout the year. The rainy season runs from June to
September.
Despite its worthwhile attractions Guinea remains one of the
least visited countries in Africa. Visas can be hard to get, which
may deter those travellers planning a trip here. The government,
despite some recent concessions, remains a de facto dictatorship
which means few freedoms for the people but generally safe
conditions for visitors.
Information & Facts
Customs
As most Guineans are practising Muslims, conservative dress
(especially for women) and judicious behaviour is essential,
especially during religious festivals and celebrations. Greetings
are very important in Guinea, as is respect for one's elders -
offer a firm handshake and inquire about their well-being, but
avoid making direct eye contact with seniors. Guineans are wary of
photography, so ask permission before taking anyone's photo, and
avoid taking pictures of military buildings or installations. It is
also considered rude to show the soles of your feet or shoes, and
to touch or move objects with your feet. Visitors should avoid
using their left hand when greeting others, or when eating, as it
is considered 'haram' (impure).
Duty Free
Visitors to Guinea may import up to 1, 000 cigarettes/250
cigars/1kg of tobacco, one bottle of alcohol, and an amount of
perfume reasonable for personal use.
Passport Visa
All foreign passengers to Guinea must hold return or onward
tickets, and the necessary travel documentation for their next
destination; OR, sufficient funds equal to a return airfare, and a
Certificat d'Hebergement (Certificate of Accommodation). Also note
that: (i) the government of Guinea does not accept wet stamp visas
for entry into the country (only sticker-type visas are valid);
(ii) every visitor staying longer than three months in Guinea is
considered an alien resident, and has to hold an Alien Registration
Card (to be obtained from the Direction de la Surete in Conakry);
and (iii) a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required to
enter Guinea. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has
at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of
departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often
apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official
sources.