Guinea-Bissau Travel Risk

Reconsider travel to Guinea-Bissau due to unrest, inadequate health infrastructure, and landmines.

There is no U.S. embassy or consulate in Guinea-Bissau. The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens. Consular services are provided by the U.S. embassy in Dakar, Senegal.

Unrest

Guinea-Bissau has had periods of political instability for decades, including political unrest in November 2025. Large-scale demonstrations related to the local political situation may occur with little notice. Demonstrations may disrupt transportation and other essential services.

Health

Guinea-Bissau’s health infrastructure is inadequate. Health services, hygiene, and quality control do not meet U.S. standards of care. Pharmacies are not well regulated. Locally available medications are limited and may be unsafe. Even a minor health issue may require medical evacuation at your own expense.

Landmines

Landmines and unexploded ordnance from prior conflicts exist throughout Guinea-Bissau. Areas of greatest risk are Bafata, Oio, Biombo, Quinara, and Tombali. The locations of landmines and unexploded ordnance are often not known, marked, or easy to recognize.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Guinea-Bissau

Although there is no recent history of terrorism in Guinea-Bissau, attacks cannot be ruled out.

Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by foreign nationals. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Political situation

Guinea-Bissau suffers from political instability. In the event of any political unrest follow the advice of local authorities and monitor local media for information. Stay alert to local developments and avoid sensitive areas like military installations and government buildings. Avoid demonstrations or large public gatherings.

If you have any doubts about the level of security in an area, stay at home or in your hotel.

Risk level

Guinea-Bissau - Exercise a high degree of caution

Exercise a high degree of caution in Guinea-Bissau due to high crime rates and weak state infrastructure.

Regional risks

Area bordering Senegal - Avoid non-essential travel

Avoid non-essential travel to the area within 20 km of the border with Senegal, including the road from São Domingos to Mpack, Senegal.

Political situation

Guinea-Bissau is going through a period of political instability. On November 26, 2025, following the presidential election, the army seized power, announced the suspension of the electoral process, and formed a transitional government. Although calm has been restored, the political situation remains uncertain.

Area bordering Senegal

Casamance rebels are present in the area bordering Senegal, where the proliferation of small arms fuels banditry. It may be dangerous to cross this border by land.

Bijagós Islands

To reach the Bijagós Islands from the mainland, you must use chartered air services or travel by boat. Avoid pirogues, as they are unsafe. There are tour operators that organize boat trips to the islands.

In the event of an emergency on the islands, contact the Embassy of Canada to Senegal, in Dakar.

Crime

Crime rates are high.

Incidents of road banditry and carjacking pose a risk for travellers.

Avoid driving after dark, and always keep doors locked and windows rolled up.

Petty crime, including pickpocketing, is common at the airport, in markets and at public gatherings.

Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times.

Burglaries are regularly reported, and security is inadequate.

Avoid travelling at night and be particularly vigilant outside major cities.

几内亚比绍风险等级为黄色（中风险）。

几内亚比绍基础设施条件较差，除比绍市区外公共交通非常不便，海岛旅游缺乏可靠交通工具、手机信号无法全覆盖、海域潮汐落差较大等，提醒谨慎前往几内亚比绍海岛旅游。

外交部提醒在几内亚比绍中国公民，密切关注当地安全形势，提高警惕，加强防范，注意安全。如遇紧急情况，请及时报警并与中国驻当地使馆取得联系。

外交部和驻外使馆将继续密切关注海外安全形势变化，动态调整有关风险评估，并实时在中国领事服务网等平台发布、更新相应安全提醒，请持续关注。