Practical Information
Visa & entry
Most nationalities require a visa; apply at EG embassy (limited presence). E-visas not available. Visa on arrival is possible for some nationalities but unreliable; apply in advance. Yellow fever vaccination recommended; proof may be requested. Passport valid for 6+ months required.
Money & payments
Currency is CFA Franc (XAF). EUR and USD can be exchanged in Malabo; rates are decent. ATMs from major banks exist in the capital; less available in Bata. Credit cards work in hotels and restaurants in Malabo. Outside the city, cash is essential. Overall banking is better here than in other CA countries.
SIM cards & internet
Mobile networks: Hits (Hispaniola Telco) and Orange operate. Coverage is good in cities; available on mainland. Data is available and reasonably priced. Buy SIM in Malabo; registration required. Internet cafes exist in main towns; WiFi is available in some hotels.
Getting around
No trains. Shared minibuses operate in cities; taxis are available. Inter-island ferries connect Bioko, Rio Muni, and Annobon. Roads are rough on the mainland; 4x4 recommended for remote areas. Hire a driver or join organized tours. Travel is slow but more organized than neighbors.
Health
Malaria is endemic; take prophylaxis. Yellow fever, dengue, and sleeping sickness occur. Sanitation is basic; tap water is not recommended. Bottled water is available. Medical care in Malabo is acceptable; rural areas are minimal. Bring prescriptions and first aid supplies.
Language & etiquette
Spanish is official and widely spoken; French and Fang are used. English is less common but understood in tourism sectors. Learn basic Spanish. Handshakes are standard. Avoid discussing politics. Photography: polite asking recommended. Dress modestly except at beaches. Tipping is not expected but appreciated.
When to go
Dry season January-February and July-August is best; cooler and less humid. Rainy season May-June and September-December brings high humidity. Equatorial climate is warm year-round. Island locations are slightly cooler than mainland due to Atlantic influence.
Getting there
Malabo International Airport serves the islands; Douala (Cameroon) provides the closest major hub. Flights via Brussels, Madrid, or through West African hubs. Bata airport serves the mainland; boat access between Bioko and Rio Muni exists but schedules are fluid. Regional connections often route through Gabon.