Practical Information
Visa & entry
Most nationalities require a visa for Guinea. Apply at a Guinea embassy before travel. Visa processing typically takes 5-10 working days. On arrival, ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay. Yellow fever vaccination is recommended and proof is requested on entry.
Money & payments
The Guinean Franc (GNF) is the currency. ATMs in Conakry accept major cards (Visa, MasterCard) but are inconsistent elsewhere. Bring USD or EUR in cash as backup. Exchange rates are best at banks; avoid street changers. Credit cards are rarely accepted outside Conakry hotels.
SIM cards & internet
SIM cards from Sotelgui, Maroc Telecom, and Conakry Phone are available at the airport and shops. 4G coverage exists in Conakry and major towns. Internet speeds are slow and unreliable; download maps and content in advance. Mobile money (MTN Mobile Money, Sotelgui) works in towns but cash is still standard in rural areas.
Getting around
Taxis in Conakry are cheap but negotiate fares beforehand. Long-distance travel is by shared minibus (transport en commun); journeys are slow and roads are rough. Hire a 4x4 with driver for interior travel. Motorcycle taxis (motos) are ubiquitous but higher accident risk. International flights use Conakry airport (CKY).
Health
Yellow fever, malaria, dengue, and cholera are present. Vaccinate against yellow fever, typhoid, and hepatitis A. Start malaria prophylaxis before arrival. Tap water is not safe; drink bottled water. Medical facilities are basic outside Conakry; serious illness requires evacuation to a neighboring country.
Language & etiquette
French is official; Pular, Mandinka, and Susu are widely spoken. Learn basic French greetings. Always greet people before conducting business. Handshakes are common among men; women may offer a hand but sometimes a verbal greeting is preferred. Direct eye contact with elders can seem disrespectful; a slight downward gaze is more polite.
When to go
Dry season (November to April) is best; skies are clear and heat is moderate. Rainy season (May to October) brings intense afternoon downpours and high humidity. Roads become impassable in remote areas during heavy rains. Avoid travel during rainy season unless roads are confirmed passable.
Getting there
Conakry's Grégory International Airport (CKY) is the hub, served by Air Senegal, Brussels Airlines, and Royal Air Maroc. Overland, the coastal road from Dakar winds through mangrove swamps and fishing villages. The mountainous inland route via Mamou offers dramatic landscapes but requires robust suspension.