Frequently asked questions about the Republic of Guinea

An e-Visa is required to visit Guinea, whether you are travelling on holiday, planning to work or studying.

With a Guinean visa you can stay in the country from 90 days to 1 year. The period depends on the type of visa.

Guinea visa can be applied for online. For a tourist visa, you only need to provide your passport, visa photo, return ticket booking and a scanned yellow fever vaccination certificate. For other types of visas, additional documents will be required depending on the purpose of travel.

The cost of a visa to Guinea depends on the type of visa and therefore on the purpose and duration of stay in the country, as well as the nationality of the applicant and possible additional services.

Health insurance, along with yellow fever vaccination, are compulsory to enter Guinea.

Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for travelling to Guinea. Vaccination against hepatitis A and B, typhoid, meningitis, tetanus and measles is also recommended.

It is possible to travel to Guinea with a pet.To do this, you need to provide an international veterinary certificate. It is worth taking into account such facts as limitation of veterinary services in Guinea, peculiarities of airlines for transporting animals, and also to specify in advance in the hotel the possibility of accommodation with pets.

Guinea's cities, including the capital Conakry, offer local markets, attractions, cafes and restaurants. In the country's national parks and reserves, you can explore the natural beauty and visit local villages and tribes. Popular destinations include the Fouta Djallon Plateau and Mount Laura, the Kinkon and Bafara waterfalls, and the local villages of Dalaba, Mamou, Somoria and Mali.

Guinea has a subequatorial climate with distinct seasons. The most favourable time to visit the country is the dry season from November to April and the off-season (March, April or November). These periods offer the most favourable weather for travelling, without debilitating heat and heavy tropical rains.

There are four countries with the word "Guinea" in their names: the Republic of Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Equatorial Guinea and Papua New Guinea. However, none of these countries are related geographically or culturally. The term "Guinea" was originally used to refer to the peoples of West Africa. According to one popular version, the name is a corruption of the Berber word iguawen, which means "mute" or people who did not speak Berber languages. The origin of the name "Guinea" has not been fully clarified.

French is the official language of Guinea. In addition to French, the locals speak 39 different local dialects, which are recognised as national heritage.

The country's national currency is the Guinean franc (GNF). Some hotels and international organisations may accept US dollars or euros. It is recommended to exchange money for Guinean francs in advance and always have cash on hand.

Guinea is a very hospitable country. However, you should not forget about personal safety. It is recommended to follow the tourist routes, not to leave personal belongings unattended, as well as to observe the rules of personal hygiene. It is important to remember about religious peculiarities, as Guinea is a Muslim country, as well as the presence of local rules, such as a ban on photography and videotaping of certain objects.

Ecotourism, active or beach holidays on the Atlantic coast and visits to local tribal villages are popular in Guinea.

For a beach holiday we recommend visiting the picturesque islands of Ile de Los, where you can enjoy boat trips and other entertainment. The resort of Cité de Cassa is also known for its good amenities and comfortable infrastructure.

Guinea is a multi-ethnic country, home to various African ethnic groups such as the Fulbe, Mandinka, Susu and others.

Guinea's main food crops are rice, cassava and maize. In addition, Guinea grows bananas, cocoa, oil palm products, pineapples and groundnuts. These crops are mainly exported.

When travelling in Guinea, we recommend lightweight, closed and non-marking clothing made of natural fabrics in a conservative style. Hats and sunglasses can help protect you from the sun. A light jumper, windbreaker and mackintosh will help protect you from the chill, rain and insects. In terms of footwear, it is better to take closed models that are comfortable for walking and hiking.

The most convenient and popular mode of transport is taxis. There are local public transport modes, but they are less comfortable for travelling, especially between cities.

Guinea celebrates both religious Muslim and Christian holidays and national public holidays. Holidays are always weekends, so many establishments and shops are closed.

Popular souvenirs from Guinea include animal figurines and totems, national masks and costumes, musical instruments and pottery.

Guinea's mobile operators are MTN, Orange and Cellcom. SIM cards can be purchased in major cities or in rural shops. Internet services are provided by public and private operators. Wi-Fi is available in many places.

Guinea's cuisine is quite simple. The main ingredients are rice, cassava, yams, sweet potatoes, bananas, peanuts, and fish and seafood.

National specialities include Fufu, Grill, Tiebudien, Akaru and Mafe.

Traditional drinks: Atai green tea and palm wine.