15 Facts About Guinea-Bissau Most People Get Wrong
Guinea-Bissau is home to 2.1M people across 36,125 km², making it a country whose population is spread fairly evenly across its territory. It ranks 1st in the world for Cashews.
Below are 15 facts about Guinea-Bissau, covering history, geography, economy and culture, including several that regularly surprise people who think they already know the country.
15 Facts About Guinea-Bissau
A complete overview of Guinea-Bissau's history, geography, economy and culture, covering everything from population and borders to language, climate and travel.
The Bijagós Archipelago has the world's only known saltwater-adapted hippos.
Guinea-Bissau is the world's 5th largest cashew producer.
The country gained independence from Portugal in 1974.
Guinea-Bissau has had more coups than elections since independence.
Guinea-Bissau is located in West Africa, Africa, with its capital city in Bissau.
The population of Guinea-Bissau is approximately 2.1M, spread across 36,125 km² of territory.
Guinea-Bissau has a population density of 58/km²: a moderate density for its region.
Guinea-Bissau has a coastline of 350 km, giving it access to maritime trade, fishing and coastal tourism.
Guinea-Bissau shares land borders with 2 countries: Senegal, Guinea.
The official language of Guinea-Bissau is Portuguese.
Guinea-Bissau uses the West African CFA Franc (XOF) as its official currency.
Guinea-Bissau gained independence in 1974, establishing itself as a sovereign nation in West Africa.
The total GDP of Guinea-Bissau is $1.7B, with a GDP per capita of $810, classifying it as a developing economy.
Guinea-Bissau has a tropical, dry season november–may climate, with the best time to visit being November–May.
Guinea-Bissau is considered a Budget destination for travellers, with meals averaging $2–5.
The Bijagós Archipelago of Guinea-Bissau, 88 islands in the Atlantic, is one of the last truly wild places in West Africa, home to hippos, saltwater turtles and one of Africa's most intact coastal ecosystems.
🏆 Guinea-Bissau World Rankings
Guinea-Bissau holds several notable world rankings; here is how it compares globally:
Famous Places in Guinea-Bissau
Guinea-Bissau is home to several remarkable landmarks and destinations that draw visitors from around the world:
🐊 Bijagós Archipelago
UNESCO biosphere of 88 Atlantic islands, hippos, sea turtles and pristine mangroves
🦛 Orango Island National Park
Home of the world's only known saltwater-adapted hippos living on a tidal island
🏛️ Bissau Old Town
Portuguese colonial architecture and the historic Pidjiguiti port, scene of 1959 massacre
🌿 Cantanhez Forest
A rare lowland forest home to chimpanzees and colobus monkeys in southern Guinea-Bissau
Frequently Asked Questions About Guinea-Bissau
What is Guinea-Bissau famous for?
The Bijagós Archipelago of Guinea-Bissau, 88 islands in the Atlantic, is one of the last truly wild places in West Africa, home to hippos, saltwater turtles and one of Africa's most intact coastal ecosystems.
What is the capital of Guinea-Bissau?
The capital of Guinea-Bissau is Bissau.
What is the population of Guinea-Bissau?
Guinea-Bissau has a population of approximately 2.1M as of 2026.
What language do they speak in Guinea-Bissau?
The official language of Guinea-Bissau is Portuguese.
When did Guinea-Bissau become an independent country?
Guinea-Bissau gained independence in 1974.
What currency does Guinea-Bissau use?
Guinea-Bissau uses the West African CFA Franc (XOF).
What is the GDP of Guinea-Bissau?
Guinea-Bissau has a GDP of $1.7B, with a GDP per capita of $810.
Where is Guinea-Bissau located?
Guinea-Bissau is located in West Africa, Africa.
Is Guinea-Bissau safe to visit?
Safety conditions in Guinea-Bissau vary by region. Always check your government's official travel advisory before visiting.
What are some fun facts about Guinea-Bissau?
The Bijagós Archipelago has the world's only known saltwater-adapted hippos. Guinea-Bissau is the world's 5th largest cashew producer. The country gained independence from Portugal in 1974.
What are some interesting facts about Guinea-Bissau?
Guinea-Bissau is the world's 5th largest cashew producer. The country gained independence from Portugal in 1974. Guinea-Bissau has had more coups than elections since independence.
Guinea-Bissau facts: what should I know?
Guinea-Bissau is a country in West Africa with a population of 2.1M. Its capital is Bissau and its official language is Portuguese. The Bijagós Archipelago has the world's only known saltwater-adapted hippos.
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