Louvet Travel: Equatorial Guinea

Equatorial Guinea Flag

Why visit Equatorial Guinea?

For the adventurous travelers seeking a lush tropical destination to enjoy beaches, birdwatching, colonial architecture, surfing, and volcanoes.

Fun Facts

In 1472, Fernando Pó, Portuguese Explorer arrived while in route to India (Island of Bioko).
In 1474, colonized by Portugal.
In 1968, became independent of Spain.
In 1979, Francisco Macías Nguema (1924-1979) late President was overthrown and murdered by his own nephew.
In 1996, large oil reserves were discovered.
Consists of two parts: insular (Islands of Bioko and Annobón) and mainland region.
Once upon a time was considered one of the most prosperous African countries.
From Malabo on a clear day you can see Mount Cameroon.
Island of Bioko has approximately 143 species of birds. Favorite being the yellow finch.
Approximately 20% of children die before the age of five.
Country is divided into eight provinces.
Education is free and required for ages from 6-14.
Mongomo, is home to the second largest African country Catholic Church (Basilica of the Immaculate Conception).
Catholic is the main religion practiced throughout the country.

Special Holidays/Occasions

Annual Events: (July) Africa Cup of Nations and (December) Malabo Hip Hop Festival.
Holidays: New Year's Day, Good Friday, Labour Day, Feast of Corpus Christi, President's Day, Freedom Day, Constitution Day, Independence Day, Immaculate Conception and Christmas Day.

Good to Know

Plagued by extreme poverty.
Spanish, French, and Portuguese are official languages. Bubi and Fang are also spoken by locals.
Not all beaches are swimmable due to pollution.
Sanitation is often considered below our standards.
Due to parasitic disease Schistosomiasis (Bilharzia) do not stand or swim in still waters.
Medical Care is very limited. Often considered below our standards.
Skin infections are common.
Do not accept Ekuele (Ek) currency, it's been replaced with CFA Francs.
A Visitors Photography Permit is no longer required. Officials may attempt to fine or detain photographers. Never photograph airports, government buildings, harbors, military, police, ports or the Presidential Palace.
Water supply is known to be limited and power outages are common.
Human trafficking is a significant problem.
Every airline Equatorial Guinea registered is banned from European Union (EU).
Public transportation is not considered reliable or safe.
Avoid dark alleys, remote locations, and traveling alone.
Nearly exclusively a cash economy; credit cards and travelers checks are not accepted.
Prevalent diseases: Dengue Fever, Polio, Rabies, Schistosomiasis, Tuberculosis, and Yellow Fever.
Cell phone coverage is known to be sporadic.
Citizens driving while intoxicated is a widespread problem.
Minor traffic violations are known to occur in hopes to extort bribes.

This international destination requires:

A valid passport with six months of validity upon return and one blank page for entry stamp.
Tourist VISA not required for visits under 90 days.
Yellow Fever & Polio Vaccination required.

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All information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Subject to change without notice.

Tuesday, January 19, 2021