Off the coast of Guinea-Bissau in West Africa lies the Bijagós Archipelago: a group of 88 islands, only about 20 of which are inhabited. Its main islands to visit are Canhabaque, Orango Island, Bolama Island, Rubane Island and Bubaque.
This remote paradise is one of the last unspoilt corners of the planet, with no mass tourism and virtually untouched nature. In addition to its natural wealth – turtles, mangroves, saltwater sea hippos – the islands stand out for their cultural and spiritual value, reflecting the worldview of the Bijagó people.
You can easily locate it on Google Maps.
Best time to travel to Bijagós Archipelago
The dry season, from mid-October to mid-May, is the best time to travel: the weather is more pleasant, the humidity is lower and it’s easier to move between islands. Lodges are open, although it’s best to book in advance due to high demand. Saltwater hippos are also more visible during this season, when they stay in open lagoons.
In the rainy season (May to October), vegetation is at its peak, but frequent rains complicate navigation and road conditions worsen. Many lodges close, so it’s not recommended for trips without good logistics.
Between October and January/February, you can also witness sea turtles nesting on Poilão Island, a unique ecotourism experience, with access regulated for conservation reasons.
Getting to the Bijagós Islands: air and land routes and useful tips
To reach the archipelago, you must first fly to Bissau, the capital of Guinea-Bissau. The most direct option from Europe is via Lisbon with TAP Air Portugal, although there are also routes from Dakar, Casablanca or Cape Verde, with varying frequencies.
Another possibility is to arrive by land from Gambia or Senegal, crossing the border at São Domingos. In this case, it’s important to carry a passport with a visa, a copy of your accommodation booking or letter of invitation, and cash in CFA francs before crossing. It is also advisable to confirm the opening hours of the border and to avoid travelling at night on public transport. Whenever possible, it is advisable to coordinate your transfer with Consulmar Travel, which can arrange it safely and reliably.
From Bissau, access to the islands is by sea. It is essential to be well informed and to follow the practical recommendations for travel.
Main activities and places of the Bijagós Archipelago
Visiting nature: an unspoilt paradise
The Bijagós Archipelago, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, stands out for its biodiversity and unspoilt landscapes: mangroves, jungles, beaches and savannahs.
Islands such as Orango allow you to hike and see saltwater hippos in the wild. You can also visit traditional tabankas in Bubaque, Rubane or Canhabaque.
In terms of fauna and flora, there are sea turtles, monkeys, dolphins, migratory birds and unique plant species adapted to the coastal environment.
Sport fishing in Bijagós
Bijagós is one of the best sport fishing destinations in West Africa. You can catch tarpon, sharks, croakers or carangids, with techniques such as trolling, jigging or bottom fishing.
With local guides and equipped boats, the experience is safe, personalised and in direct contact with nature.
Bijagó culture: living tradition
The Bijagó communities retain a strong cultural identity that is expressed in their tabankas, dances, local villages, masks and initiation ceremonies. They live in harmony with nature, maintaining ancestral traditions that are highly symbolic.
In addition to the Bubaque Carnival, the Manjaco Culture Festival is held on Jeta Island in January, with dances, music, wood carvings and rituals of the Manjaco people, ideal for those seeking authentic cultural experiences.
Another highlight is the Vaca Bruto Mask Ceremony, which originated on the island of Uno and has spread to other islands. It includes drumming, dancing and ritual masks, with deep spiritual value.
History: Bissau and Bolama
Bissau, the capital of Guinea-Bissau, preserves colonial buildings such as the Cathedral, the Presidential Palace and the Bandím Market.
Bolama, the country’s first capital, offers nostalgic ruins and monuments that reflect its past as a Portuguese administrative centre.
Beaches: nature and calm
The islands offer some of the most tranquil and beautiful beaches in Africa. All are perfect for unwinding and exploring the surroundings at your own pace:
- Bruce (Bubaque): clear waters, white sand and good access.
- Rubane: exclusive setting and luxury resort.
- Canhabaque: wilderness and no tourist infrastructure.
Local gastronomy: tradition and flavour
The cuisine in the Bijagós Islands is simple, authentic and based on local products such as rice, peanuts, cashew nuts and cassava.
Fresh fish – sea bream, tuna or grouper – is present in many dishes, thanks to artisanal fishing, which is still deeply rooted in the communities.
One of the most representative dishes is caldo de mancarra, a thick stew made with ground peanuts, vegetables and sometimes fish or meat, always accompanied by rice.
A humble but tasty gastronomy that reflects the deep connection between the Bijagó people and their environment.
Practical tips: What to pack and cultural norms for your trip to Bijagós
What to pack
Pack light and breathable clothes, but also long clothes to protect you from mosquitoes. Don’t forget a swimming costume, microfibre towel, comfortable shoes and a mackintosh if you’re travelling between June and October. A hat, sunglasses and sunscreen are also a must.
Include a strong insect repellent, a basic first-aid kit and check in advance for vaccinations and preventive medication (such as antimalarials). Bring your passport with visa, yellow fever vaccination certificate, copy of travel insurance and sufficient cash in CFA francs.
A torch, external battery, waterproof bag and small backpack will come in handy during the trip.
Cultural norms to consider for your trip
Before you travel, check your travel documents, check vaccinations and take out insurance with good coverage. At your destination, be aware that electricity and internet are limited and transport may vary according to weather or tides.
Respect local customs: ask permission before taking photos, avoid interfering in rituals, and be discreet and open. Don’t hand things directly to children or raise your voice in public.
Travel sustainably: avoid waste, don’t buy products with protected species and support local initiatives. Respect and cultural sensitivity make the difference in Bijagós.
Bijagós is a destination unlike anything you know. Ideal for those seeking adventure, authenticity and a real connection with the environment, it offers the possibility of a transformative journey. Far from mass tourism, it preserves its essence intact and invites you to discover another rhythm and another way of seeing the world.
At Consulmar Travel we are experts in organising tailor-made trips to Guinea-Bissau and Bijagós. We accompany you every step of the way so that you can discover this authentic destination with the peace of mind of being in good hands.
