Things to Do in Guinea

About Guinea

The Niger River starts here, and Guinea doesn't care if you've heard of it. While tourists crowd neighboring countries, this West African nation stretches from the Fouta Djallon highlands down to Atlantic beaches that see few foreigners. Markets pulse with life. In Conakry, djembe drums compete with the call to prayer, and villages an hour inland still live as they did centuries ago. You won't find Guinea's character on guided tours. It shows up when a stranger invites you to sit through a three-round attaya tea ceremony, or when you're hiking Mount Nimba's cloud forests in the early morning. Wedding celebrations here last until sunrise. The dancing never stops. Guineans treat hospitality as non-negotiable. This isn't just cultural habit—it is how people live, and it turns short visits into long friendships you didn't expect to make.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Shared taxis in Conakry cost 2,000-5,000 GNF ($0.23-0.58) for city routes. Private taxis charge 10,000-25,000 GNF ($1.16-2.90) depending on distance. Minibuses to suburbs run 3,000-8,000 GNF ($0.35-0.93). Intercity transport to Labé costs 80,000-120,000 GNF ($9.30-13.95). Airport taxis to city center run 50,000-80,000 GNF ($5.81-9.30). Motorcycle taxis common at 5,000-15,000 GNF ($0.58-1.74) for short trips. Walking possible but road conditions challenging during rains.

Money: Guinean franc (GNF) is the official currency. Ecobank and Société Générale have ATMs but cash shortages common. Credit cards rarely accepted outside upscale hotels. Budget $25-50 daily in cash. Mobile money through Orange Money expanding. Tipping 5,000-10,000 GNF ($0.58-1.16) appreciated. Euros sometimes accepted at hotels but poor exchange rates. Bank branches offer official exchange rates. Keep emergency cash reserves. Large denomination bills can be difficult to change.

Cultural Respect: French is official language with Susu and Pular widely spoken. Islamic greetings 'As-salamu alaykum' appreciated by Muslim majority. Handshakes standard with right hand only. Dress modestly especially during Ramadan. Remove shoes before entering mosques. Photography requires permission particularly of women. Extended family networks central to society. Business meetings often delayed - patience essential. Traditional music and dance important cultural expressions. Avoid discussing politics or recent social unrest.

Food Safety: Local restaurants serve rice with sauce for 15,000-25,000 GNF ($1.74-2.90). Grilled fish at waterfront spots costs 20,000-35,000 GNF ($2.33-4.07). Attaya (tea ceremony) runs 3,000-8,000 GNF ($0.35-0.93). Fresh fruit juices cost 8,000-15,000 GNF ($0.93-1.74). Bottled water essential at 3,000-6,000 GNF ($0.35-0.70). Never drink tap water. Choose busy restaurants with high turnover. Avoid raw vegetables and salads. Well-cooked traditional dishes generally safe from established vendors.

When to Visit

Guinea's optimal travel window spans November through April during the dry season, when temperatures range from 25-35°C (77-95°F) and rainfall is minimal. December through February offers the most comfortable conditions with cooler evenings and clear skies—expect peak pricing with accommodations 40-60% higher than off-season rates. March and April bring increasing heat but excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. The rainy season (May-October) transforms the landscape into lush green great destination but brings challenging travel conditions. July-September sees heaviest rainfall (200-400mm monthly) and temperatures around 22-30°C (72-86°F). However, this period offers 30-50% savings on accommodations and fewer crowds. Key festivals include Tabaski (Islamic holiday, dates vary), Independence Day celebrations (October 2nd), and traditional harvest festivals in rural areas (November-December). The Conakry International Festival typically occurs in December, featuring well-known African musicians. Adventure travelers might prefer late dry season (March-April) for hiking in Fouta Djallon, while cultural ensoiasts should visit during festival season (November-January). Beach lovers will find optimal conditions December through March with calm seas and minimal rainfall along the Atlantic coast.