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: Hire private drivers or use reputable taxi companies like Alpha Taxi in Conakry. Bush taxis (shared minibuses) connect major towns but expect delays. Domestic flights via Air Guinée serve regional centers. Road conditions deteriorate significantly during rainy season—plan accordingly.

Money: Carry cash in Guinean francs (GNF) as ATMs are scarce outside Conakry. Exchange USD or Euros at official bureaux de change for better rates. Many establishments don't accept cards. Budget approximately 300,000-500,000 GNF daily for mid-range travel.

Cultural Respect: Remove shoes before entering homes and mosques. Use your right hand for greetings and eating. Dress modestly, especially women covering shoulders and knees. During Ramadan, avoid eating/drinking publicly during daylight hours. Always ask permission before photographing people.

Food Safety: Stick to bottled or boiled water and avoid ice. Choose busy restaurants with high turnover for fresher food. Street food like grilled meat and fried plantains are generally safe when hot. Try national dishes like riz sauce and poulet yassa at established local eateries.

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.