Stepping into a hidden coastal gem of West Africa—welcome to Guinea-Bissau, a country known for its labyrinth of rivers, mangrove swamps, and a stunning collection of offshore islands. There are around 2 million people living here, and the capital is Bissau, a city with a relaxed atmosphere and charming Portuguese colonial architecture. The official language is Portuguese, though most people speak Guinea-Bissau Creole.

Guinea-Bissau covers about 36,125 square kilometers (13,948 square miles). To imagine its size, the country is roughly the same size as the state of Maryland in the U.S., or approximately the same size as Belgium. About 20% of the country is covered by water at high tide!

The most popular sport is Football, and the national team is known as “Os Djurtus” (The Wild Dogs). Their national animal is the African Elephant, though the country is perhaps more famous for its rare marine life.

The flag consists of a vertical red stripe on the left with a black star, and two horizontal stripes of yellow and green on the right, where the red symbolizes the blood of the martyrs, the yellow represents the fruits of labor and the sun, the green stands for the lush forests, and the black star represents African unity.

The food is a delicious blend of local ingredients and Portuguese influence. You must try Caldo de Mancarra, a rich peanut stew typically made with chicken or fish and served over rice. Because of the country’s vast coastline and many islands, fresh seafood is a staple, often grilled with lime and chili.

Guinea-Bissau is home to the Bijagós Archipelago, a group of 88 islands and islets that is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. It is one of the few places on Earth where you can see saltwater hippos, which swim in the ocean and live among the mangroves! The archipelago is also a vital nesting ground for Green Sea Turtles. The country is one of the world’s largest producers of Cashew Nuts, which are the backbone of the local economy. If you visit in February, you might experience the Bissau Carnival, a vibrant celebration featuring traditional masks, dancing, and music that blends African traditions with a carnival spirit.

From the quiet, palm-fringed beaches of Bubaque to the bustling port of Bissau, Guinea-Bissau is a land of wild nature and deep cultural pride. Obrigado! That means “Thank you!”