EQUATORIAL GUINEA: It’s 100% UNTOUCHED

Equatorial Guinea is a country of luscious vegetation and beautiful scenery, including tropical forests and snowcapped volcanoes. The capital, Malabo, is a rather rundown but attractive town, with pleasant Spanish colonial architecture, a striking volcanic setting and a lively market. The white-sand beaches around the islands are stunning. No wonder the country was first of all named 'Formosa', meaning 'beautiful', by the Portuguese.

The area was first colonized by the Portuguese in the late 15th century and handed over to the Spanish in 1788. Self-government was granted in 1959, followed by full independence in 1968.Its economy has expanded rapidly following the discovery of oil and gas deposits in the Gulf of Guinea, though little of this wealth has trickled down to the general population.

The Mesmerizing Malabo

Malabo is the capital city of Equatorial Guinea. Found on the edge of this city is a deep-set volcano. This site has endorsed Malabo to have an exceptional terrain and wildlife, combined with the buzz of being an African capital city.

The Santa Isabel Cathedral is a must-see for all visitors to the African city, positioned in the Plaza de España. The cathedral is built in a Gothic-Spanish style, and makes available a contrast to the architecture around it. The Presidential palace is situated in the same square, and is worth a visit as well. Positioned on a volcano, Malabo offers sights such as craters and lakes that cannot be seen elsewhere.

The beaches are a widespread leisure or weekend spot for locals and tourists alike, and a day must be certainly be spent on the beach.

Getting Around Equatorial Guinea

Air: There are flights between Malabo and Bata every day except Sunday; it is advisable to book in advance. Iberia (IB) (website: www.iberia.com) operates direct flights from Madrid to Malabo. Cameroon Airlines (UY) operates regular flights to Malabo from London, Paris and Rome. Other airlines serving Equatorial Guinea include Air France, Brussels Airlines, British Airways, KLM, Swiss and Spanair.

Road: Bush taxis connect Malabo with the islands two other main towns, Luba and Riaba, and also run from Bata to Mongomo and Ebebiyin; they can be hired hourly or daily.

Water: There is a ferry between Malabo, Bata and Douala. The trip takes about 12 hours. There are four classes of fare.

Shopping in Equatorial Guinea

Markets sell local produce such as beans, rice, fruit, vegetables, oil and bush meat as well as fabric and clothing in traditional African prints, hardware and local crafts. However, prices may not be much cheaper than at home because many goods have to be imported from the mainland. Expect to barter in the markets.

Where to stay in Equatorial Guinea

Malabo, Bata, Luba and Ebebiyan offer several hotels of variable standards. In Malabo, there are also a few hostels offering basic cheap accommodation with shared bathroom facilities (two of which are located in Avenida de las Naciónes).

A Luxurious Leisure Experience Awaits You!!

If you’re captivated by Mother Nature, Equatorial Guinea is your Dreamland. Offering a variety of things to do with a splash of vibrancy, Equatorial Guinea has all of the benefits of a nation which strive to fascinate inbound leisure tourists, in particular prosperous inbound tourists. The amalgamation of pleasant weather, African rhythms and Spanish flair makes for a great day. Its many high-class hotels and solid infrastructure, pooled with glorious natural sites and unspoiled beaches make Equatorial Guinea eye-catching for luxury leisure tourists.

It’s Finger Licking Good!!

Equatorial Guinea has many yummy and delicious foods. Distinctive to most West African countries in the continent, they use peanuts, tomatoes, cassava, yams and a few treats, like monkey meat, that isn't readily a v a i l a b l e in the US - even from an o u t l a n d i s h meat vendor. C u s t o m a r y b r e a k f a s t foods include: boiled yams or cassava, bean cakes and ground millet porridge, which is very similar to grits. French food is common in Malabo, and some of the hotels can make available very genuine French cuisine. Local food is simply available by the roadside. A safer play would certainly be the hotel cafeteria or restaurant, where a dish of smoked beef and pepper is the prevalent national dish.

What to Do in Equatorial Guinea

Malabo: The small but striking capital city abounds in Spanish colonial architecture and pleasant open plazas. The bustling market and the Spanish Colonial Center are worth a visit.

Climbing Volcanoes: The spectacular Pico Malabo volcano is an easy day trip from the city of Malabo. Arrange an expedition to take in its breathtaking views.

Beaches: The area around the mainland city of Bata boasts several beautiful and undeveloped beaches. Those at Mbini, just 32 miles (51.5 kilometers) south of Bata, are particularly gorgeous.

Local Liquors: Malamba, made from sugarcane, and osang, a type of African tea, are the national drinks. Locally brewed beer and palm wine are also abundant.

Market Shopping: Markets can be found in most cities and towns. In addition to local produce, bush meat, and textiles, many markets feature local handicrafts.

Monte Alen National Park: This Park’s tropical forests are home to gorillas, elephants, chimpanzees, and many other creatures. Hire a local villager for a guided day trek through the park’s 870 miles (1,400 kilometers) of rain forest.

Bata Nightlife: This mainland city may feel small by day, but its nightlife is impressive. Be prepared for a long night; nightclubs typically don’t get going until quite late and are still jumping in the wee hours.

Moca Valley: Situated in the southern highlands of Bioko Island, this valley is home to the indigenous Buki people and offers plenty in the way of hiking and flora sightseeing.

Annobon: Head to the island of Annobon to see three of the country’s most famous mountain peaks, Pico del Fuega, Pico Centro, and Pico Surtado. Pico Surtado, the southernmost peak, is an inactive volcano whose crater now contains an impressive lake.

Arena Blanca: If you visit during the summer, Arena Blanca is a must-see. Its whitesand beaches are dazzling and enjoyable year-round. They literally come alive in the summertime with thousands of butterflies that nest there seasonally.