Equatorial Guinea is a country that may not be on your list of places to visit, but has a lot to offer. Are you ready for a virtual trip through its landscapes and culture?
The first thing we should mention is that Equatorial Guinea is a small country, with an area of 28,000 km², located in Central Africa. Its capital is Malabo, located on the island of Bioko, and the official language is Spanish, a legacy of its colonial past.
What is Equatorial Guinea like?
But let’s get to the interesting part, what is Equatorial Guinea like? Well, its greatest treasure is its nature. The country is known for its dense tropical forests and its great variety of animal species. If you are a nature lover, Equatorial Guinea is your ideal destination. You can enjoy a large number of natural parks, including Monte Alén National Park, where you can find species such as gorillas, chimpanzees and elephants.
And if you prefer paradisiacal beaches, don’t worry, Equatorial Guinea has some of the most impressive ones on the entire African continent. The island of Corisco has white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, ideal for relaxing and disconnecting from the world.
But not everything in Equatorial Guinea is nature. Its culture is rich and varied, with a great influence from the Bantu tribes and Spanish colonization. Music is an important element in its culture, and you will hear the rhythms and music of the country anywhere you go that will not leave you indifferent.
In conclusion, Equatorial Guinea is a country worth discovering. Nature, culture, gastronomy… it has a lot to offer and, in addition, you can enjoy it without the typical crowds of other better-known tourist destinations. So, if you are thinking of a different destination for your next vacation, we will tell you how Equatorial Guinea is.
What regions form Equatorial Guinea?
If you’re still reading, it’s because, like us, you’re obsessed with knowing all the details about Equatorial Guinea. In this section, we’ll talk about the regions that make up this wonderful country. So get ready for a journey through the most beautiful corners of Equatorial Guinea!
First, let’s talk about the Continental Region. This region is located to the north with Cameroon, to the east and south with Gabon, and although it may seem incredible, it also includes the small island of Corisco. You’re probably thinking, “How is it possible for an island to belong to a continental region?” The truth is that, as in many things in Equatorial Guinea, things are a bit different. But don’t worry, we’re here to guide you!
The Continental Region is famous for its lush vegetation, natural reserves, and the large number of primates that live there. If you’re a nature lover, you must visit the continental region. In addition, you will find small villages and cities with a unique culture and traditions. A perfect place for adventurous travelers!
Now let’s talk about the Insular Region. This region includes the islands of Bioko and Annobón. The island of Bioko is the larger of the two and is home to the country’s capital, Malabo. If you visit Bioko, don’t miss the white sand beaches and the mountains covered in tropical jungle. In addition, you will find a unique mix of African and Spanish cultures. Get ready to enjoy delicious food and traditional dances!
The island of Annobón is much smaller, with only 17 km² of surface area. But don’t let its size fool you, there’s a lot to do here! The island is famous for its beautiful beaches and a large amount of marine life. If you’re a diving enthusiast, don’t miss it! In addition, the island is home to the village of San Antonio de Palea, where you can experience the unique culture and traditions of the local inhabitants.
And now for the detail lovers, Equatorial Guinea is administratively divided into eight provinces: Annobón, Bioko Norte, Bioko Sur, Centro Sur, Kie-Ntem, Litoral, Djibloho, and Wele-Nzas. Remember these names if you plan to visit the country!
In summary, Equatorial Guinea is a small country with a lot to offer. Its nature, culture, and people are unique and worth discovering. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure to one of Africa’s hidden gems!
How is the weather in Equatorial Guinea?
Today we’re going to talk about a very interesting and essential topic when it comes to planning a trip: the climate of Equatorial Guinea. As you already know, our country has an equatorial climate characterized by warm and constant temperatures throughout the year. However, there are two distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season.
During the dry season, the climate is less humid and temperatures are higher. This makes it the perfect time to enjoy our beaches and outdoor activities on the island of Bioko or in the mainland region. On the other hand, the rainy season is when the vegetation of our country becomes a true spectacle of color and life. The rainfall is very abundant and regular, and can exceed 1,500 or 2,000 mm per year. Although some people may think that this could be a problem for tourism, the truth is that it is a unique and surprising experience for those who visit us. The island of Bioko is covered in intense green color and the fauna and flora of our country become even more exuberant.
What is the typical vegetation of Equatorial Guinea?
Undoubtedly one of the greatest attractions in Equatorial Guinea. Despite being a small country, it has excellent landscape diversity. It is one of the most biodiverse areas in Africa. You will experience fascinate scenery like perfectly formed beaches with black volcanic or rocky sand, such as the Sipopo coast, to incredibly lush forests in Moca as well as alpine lands at heights of 3,000 meters, such as the Pico Basilé.
Three-quarters of the Continental Region is virgin forest,
incredibly beautiful. The rain forest is of great abundance. This type of jungle is common in the tropical or equatorial climate. Photos reveal how green and lush—a marvel the forest becomes.
Although part remains untapped today, on Bioko Island, cocoa, coffee and banana plantations abound. Finca Sampaca in recovering part of the industrial production of cocoa for its subsequent treatment and consumption. The quantities, unfortunately, are not yet enough to export, but little by little they begin to nourish the supermarkets with 100% national produce, a piece of excellent news for cocoa lovers.
In the southern part of Bioko island, there is another type of rain forest, rich in orchids; mostly due to a large amount of rain that occurs in this area, especially in the rainiest season.
Closer to the Basilé peak, the vegetation changes due to the decrease in oxygen levels, the towering trees and lush vegetation, give way to a perennial jungle from 700m to 1,800m, with a large number of tree ferns. From there, the prairies begin to appear along with all kinds of lower plant formations.
Which animals can we find in Equatorial Guinea?
Equatorial Guinea is a country that boasts a great diversity of animals due to its geographical position and the wide variety of habitats found in its territory. From terrestrial to aquatic animals, Equatorial Guinea is a paradise for animal lovers.
One of the most emblematic animals of Equatorial Guinea is the gorilla, where the albino gorilla Copito de Nieve stands out. Gorillas are primates that inhabit the tropical forests of central and western Africa. Although they are usually quite shy, it is possible to spot them in some national parks in the country, such as Monte Alen National Park.
Another land animal that can be found in Equatorial Guinea is the elephant. These elephants are very important animals for the ecological balance of the forests, as they help to disperse seeds and create new clearings in the vegetation. Primates such as colobus monkeys, vervet monkeys, and chimpanzees can also be found.
Several species of cetaceans such as whales and dolphins inhabit the waters surrounding Equatorial Guinea, which can be spotted on whale and dolphin watching excursions in the Gulf of Guinea and around Corisco Island. Sea turtles, such as the Leatherback, Olive Ridley, and Green turtles, can also be found, as well as African manatees and a wide variety of fish and crustaceans.
The island of Bioko is the habitat of seven species of diurnal primates. Currently, they are endangered due to the historical abuse of their poaching for human consumption. These types of primates are mainly found in Pico Basile National Park and the Great Caldera Scientific Reserve, which is the only place where all seven species can be found in the same habitat, as we tell you in this post about primates in Equatorial Guinea.
In addition, in the insular region, several little-known endemic bird species can be found.
In summary, Equatorial Guinea is a country rich in biodiversity that offers nature lovers the opportunity to spot a wide variety of animals in their natural habitats. From majestic gorillas and elephants to colorful birds and marine creatures, Equatorial Guinea is a perfect destination for those seeking unique experiences in contact with nature.
Which tribes or ethnic groups form Equatorial Guinea?
Equatoguineans is a conglomeration of people with different cultural backgrounds. There is respect for different ethnic groups and customs. Improving the youth to learn about Their culture of each people to the following generations. Thus, today we still have the possibility of contemplating centuries-old rituals such as traditional weddings, funeral rites and other cultural delights of the people that make up the Equatorial Guinean cultural spectrum.
Fang
They form the largest ethnic group. Historically they come from South Sudan; they were avoiding Muslim invasion. Males send the offspring, hence the father, uncle and the firstborn take on particular importance. They create outstanding unique sculptures works with noble woods with meaningful and elevated: spiritual perfection. The Fang culture stands out for its strong character and excellent warrior skills used to invade foreign land. Their agriculture and hunting is their primary source of income.
Bubi
They are from Bioko island. They hunt and fish, as reflected in its mythical legends. Their economy focuses on yam production, palm oil as well as in hunting and fishing. They had dealings with western merchants who docked on the island.
They have vast sea knowledge of the sea, historically helping them when fishing for sperm whales, whales, etc.
In general, Bubi people are still professionally divided into three classes:
Abéba or hunters
Baobbé or fishermen
Baebbá or climbers of palm oil
They have a matrilineal set up within their ethnical group, make them one of the few African countries to be constructed in this manner.
Pygmies
They are called Beyeles and Bokuigns. They live in small groups they hunt and gather wild roots and berries. They keep to themselves and do not mix with other groups.
Ndowé
It is a minority etnic compared with the others, made up of many ethnic groups: the Kombe, the Bujeba, the Bapuku, the Balenke, the Enviko and the Benga. They are a coastal people who are farmers, fishermen and hunters. Their food has been based on cassava, plantain and corn.
Their social organization is hierarchical in families, villages, lineages and clans. And above all, it stands out its traditional dances as the “mekuyo” or the “iwanga”
Bisio
They are few in numbers and migrated in the 19th century to the nearby coastal regions. Currently, they live in small villages around Bata and Mbini. They are known for their use of traditional medicinal plants.
Fernandinos y creoles
They are mestizo descendants from bourgeoisie landowners and merchants, who settled on the plantations during the colonial period.
This ethnic group had more contact with the colonisers and were to learn about their customs and culture.
Annobonés
They are the inhabitants of the Annobón island and are a mixture of Portuguese, Spanish and African descendants. Annobón Island is only 17km2; fishing is the islands only source of economic income. They use canoes, and they continue to use very traditional methods of fishing. Children become fishers of excellence from an early age. Their language is the Fá d’Ambô dialect, which is a Portuguese Creole mixed with Spanish.
Conclusion
Although it may not be on your list of destinations, this small country in Central Africa has a lot to offer. With dense tropical forests and a great variety of animal species, such as gorillas and elephants, it is a paradise for nature lovers. In addition, it has paradisiacal beaches and a rich and varied culture, influenced by Bantu tribes and Spanish colonization. Do you want to explore the most beautiful corners of Equatorial Guinea? Visit the Continental Region, with its lush vegetation and primates, or the Insular Region, with its unique blend of African and Spanish cultures. Get ready for a unique adventure!
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very interesting place…amazing………i really like this place.
Thanks Elio!! Equatorial Guinea is a really nice place, unfortunately it is still undiscovered, but we are trying our best to promote the tourism in this small country. Thanks for stopping by and follow us in any social media (@rumbomalabo) if you want more pictures on Equatorial Guinea!