Verified Facts

Official NameRepublic of Guinea-Bissau
CapitalBissau
Population1.8 million
Area36,125 km² (13,948 sq mi)
LanguagesPortuguese, Upper Guinea Creole
CurrencyWest African CFA franc (Fr)
TimezoneUTC
RegionAfrica / Western Africa
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API

Quick Facts

Land Area36,127 km2, about the size of Maryland
Highest PointMonte Torrin, 262 meters
Lowest PointAtlantic Ocean, 0 meters
Coastline350 km
BordersSenegal, Guinea
Climate Typetropical

Location & Borders

Guinea-Bissau is a sovereign country located in West Africa, bordered by Senegal to the north and Guinea to the south and east. The country has a coastline along the Atlantic Ocean to the west, with a number of islands and archipelagos situated off the coast. The capital city, Bissau, is located on the Gebyss River and serves as the country's main port and commercial center. Guinea-Bissau's strategic location makes it an important hub for trade and commerce in the region.

The country's borders with Senegal and Guinea are largely defined by natural features such as rivers and mountains. The Casamance River forms part of the border with Senegal, while the Kolenté River marks the border with Guinea. The country's coastline is approximately 350 kilometers long, providing access to the Atlantic Ocean and facilitating trade and commerce with other countries. Guinea-Bissau's unique geography and location make it a fascinating country to explore, with a mix of African, Portuguese, and Islamic influences.

Terrain & Landscape

Guinea-Bissau's terrain is characterized by a mix of low-lying coastal plains, hills, and mountains. The country's highest point, Monte Torrin, is located in the eastern part of the country and rises to an elevation of 262 meters. The coastal plains are generally flat and narrow, with a number of rivers and streams flowing into the Atlantic Ocean. The interior of the country is more hilly and mountainous, with a number of peaks and valleys forming the Fouta Djallon highlands. The country's landscape is also dotted with a number of mangrove swamps and salt marshes, which provide a habitat for a wide range of wildlife.

The country's terrain is also home to a number of rivers, including the Gebyss River, the Corubal River, and the Balana River. These rivers play an important role in the country's economy, providing water for irrigation, drinking water, and hydroelectric power. The country's landscape is also characterized by a number of islands, including the Bijagos Archipelago, which is located off the coast of Guinea-Bissau. The archipelago is made up of 88 islands and islets, and is known for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and diverse wildlife.

The country's terrain and landscape are also home to a number of forests, including tropical rainforests and mangrove forests. These forests provide a habitat for a wide range of wildlife, including monkeys, chimpanzees, and birds. The country's forests are also an important source of timber, with a number of tree species being harvested for wood and other forest products.

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Guinea-Bissau has a rich and diverse geography, with a wide range of ecosystems and landscapes. The country's unique geography and location make it a fascinating country to explore, with a mix of African, Portuguese, and Islamic influences.

Climate By Season

SeasonMonthsTemperature RangeRainfallConditions
Dry SeasonDecember to May20-30°CLowClear skies, hot temperatures
Wet SeasonJune to November20-30°CHighRainfall, high humidity
Hot SeasonFebruary to April25-35°CLowHot temperatures, dry conditions
Cool SeasonJuly to September20-25°CMediumCooler temperatures, some rainfall

Best Time To Visit

Best months: December to May. Why: The dry season offers clear skies, hot temperatures, and low humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring. Avoid: June to November, as the wet season brings heavy rainfall and high humidity, making travel and outdoor activities more difficult.

Natural Highlights

  • The Bijagos Archipelago is a group of 88 islands and islets located off the coast of Guinea-Bissau, known for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and diverse wildlife.
  • The Orango National Park is a protected area located on the coast of Guinea-Bissau, home to a wide range of wildlife, including hippos, monkeys, and birds.
  • The Fouta Djallon highlands are a mountainous region located in the eastern part of the country, known for its stunning scenery, waterfalls, and traditional villages.
  • The Gebyss River is a major river located in the western part of the country, providing water for irrigation, drinking water, and hydroelectric power.
  • The Cacheu River is a major river located in the northwestern part of the country, known for its scenic beauty and diverse wildlife.
  • The Cantanhez Forest National Park is a protected area located in the southern part of the country, home to a wide range of wildlife, including chimpanzees, monkeys, and birds.