Bissau: A Surprising Portuguese Town in West Africa
The capital city Bissau, Guinea Bissau nearby the Atlantic Ocean and sitting on the banks of Geba River is the country’s main port, tourism, and military center. It was founded in the late 16th century and was used as a fortified harbor town by Portugal. Among the long-established history of the town, the most prominent one is the extreme Civil War that took place in 1998 and 1999. Although the country is considered to be one of the poorest in West Africa, the city continues to slowly thrive in its tourism aspect considering it is close to the coast. The nearest airport to the city that you can use is the Osvaldo Vieira International Airport (OXB).
Best Time to Visit
A tropical savannah climate prevails at Bissau. It is characterized by dry and wet seasons. The temperature tends to be insufferable during the earliest or latest months of the year. Which leaves then the middle of the year to be the most comfortable, but still hot and humid despite the relative amount of rainfall. Hence, it is between June and September when it is most recommended to explore the city.
What to Do & Area Attractions
The ancient part of the city called Bissau Velho is where you can find many historic ruins and landmarks including the Bissau Cathedral. To understand more about the town and town folks’ backgrounds, head on to National Ethnographic Museum – one of the two major museums in the country. Of course, it is a must to drop by what was once the protection of the city – the fortress ruins of Fortaleza d'Amura. One of the contemporary Bissau hotels in the city that tops the many list of travelers is the Hotel Ceiba Bissau. The rooms are very spacious and fully-furnished. Providing an outdoor swimming pool to their guests are the Dunia Hotel Bissau and Hotel Ceiba.
