TOP TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN GUINEA BISSAU

The top tourist attractions in Guinea-Bissau are one of the most beautiful places in West Africa, although it is oftentimes overshadowed by Morocco and Mauritius in terms of worldwide popularity. This land was once a part of the great Mali Empire that gave birth to Islamic Saharan region. Once called the Kingdom of Gabu, it pays homage to the great Islamic hegemon until the arrival of the Portuguese. Perhaps if there is one word that fits this nation’s description perfectly, it is perseverance. While the entire dominion of the Mali Empire crumbled one by one, it took a few more centuries for the Kingdom of Gabu to be incorporated in European civilization. Nonetheless they were considered worth opponents, and their adaptation of Portuguese culture was quite good. It can be reflected in its enduring architecture.

Typical scenery in Guinea-Bissau

1. Bissau

Like many places on earth worth traveling, it is always prudent to begin one’s journey in the capital city. Bissau is an impressive rural metropolis where many of the upscale villas are built according to Mediterranean architecture. The colonial-design civilization is located near the spectacular beaches of the country. One of the most interesting locations within the city is the cultural center called Pidjiguiti. It is curious to note that this country got its namesake from its capital city to prevent confusion with its neighbour the Republic of Guinea.

2. Museum of African Artefacts

The Museum of Artefacts is one of the top tourist attractions in Guinea-Bissau and a perfect place for scholarly travellers to visit. This is one of the ideal places to get an intimate glimpse of the country’s history. But the genuine works of art displayed in this museum shows a more humanist side of this West African nation – something that goes beyond the parameters of academic knowledge. Items like traditional pottery, weaving, sculpture and basket-ware comprises the artistic talent of the craftsmen in the ancient Kingdom of Gabu.

3. Bolama Bubaque

The Bolama Bubaque is the region in Guinea-Bissau that features the more intimate glimpse of the country’s ancient past. No stronger evidence of a nation’s ancient culture is more compelling than its ruins. The ancient architectural debris of Bolama Bubaque is a sacred place that ideally resisted colonial power up until this day. It is located within a picturesque natural terrain of the country. It is quite unfortunate that this site lacks accommodations, but it remains an ideal camping site for a more rugged type of curious tourists.

4. National Parks of Guinea-Bissau

If eco-tourism is the game, then the famous national parks remain as the top tourist attractions in Guinea-Bissau. The Archipel de Bolama, located near the ancient ruin complex, is designated as one of the UNESCO MAB Biosphere Reserves. There are also well-known wildlife sanctuaries such as Ilhas de Orango and Ilhas de Dulombi. Lastly, the Parc Naturael des Mangroves de Cacheu is among the most recommended natural reservations worth touring around. Wildlife explorers will truly have a good time.