Tourism in Guinea-Bissau is still developing and is not yet well-established. According to the United States Department of State, there is no formal tourism industry infrastructure that exists in the country, [1] In 2019, Guinea-Bissau received 52,400 international visitors, a decrease from 55,000 in 2018. [2] In 2022, the government has identified the tourism sector as having significant growth potential and has dedicated more investment to develop the industry in the country. [3]
Guinea-Bissau is a small West African country that is approximately 36,125 square kilometers in area and has a total population of 2,132,325. [4] Guinea-Bissau borders Guinea and Senegal. It is listed by the United Nations as a least developed country. [5] There is just one international airport that serves the country, Osvaldo Vieira International Airport. [6] Guinea-Bissau currently faces threats to its tourism sector from instability and environmental fragility. [7]
Bissau is Guinea-Bissau's capital and largest city. As a former Portuguese colony, Bissau still retains some remnants such as the Bissau Cathedral and Fortaleza de São José da Amura. [8] Bolama is a town that was previously the capital of Portuguese Guinea and some influences still remain. [9]
Guinea-Bissau also has a few designated natural preserves that tourists can visit. These include Orango National Park and Lagoas Cufada Natural Park. [10] The Bissagos Islands is also a tourist destination for those interested in both nature and cultural traditions. [11] [12] The islands are largely uninhabited and are accessible from Bissau by boat or ferry. There are hotels on the islands that also cater to recreational fishing. [13]
All persons who are visiting Guinea-Bissau must obtain a visa either on arrival or in advance unless they are from a visa exempt country or territory.