Equatorial Guinea

The territory comprises a mainland section on the Central African Atlantic coast and several islands in the Gulf of Guinea. The continental zone borders Cameroon to the north and Gabon to the south and east. Bioko Island lies approximately 25 miles (40 kilometers) off the Cameroonian coast and hosts diverse ecology. The smaller Annobón Island sits well south of the equator, separated from the main territory.

Portuguese explorers reached the region in the 15th century during African coastal exploration. In 1778, Portugal ceded the territory to Spain, establishing Spanish colonial presence. Throughout the 19th century, Bioko served as a British naval base for combating the slave trade. After decades of colonial administration, the territory gained independence in 1968 and subsequently experienced significant political and economic changes.

The nation preserves a cultural heritage rooted in the coexistence of multiple ethnic groups, with the Fang people maintaining traditional practices and rituals. Spanish, French, and Portuguese serve as official languages, while local languages such as Bubi on Bioko and Annobonese on Annobón remain spoken. Religious ceremonies blend Christian beliefs with animist traditions that shape social life. This cultural identity reflects a complex history of colonial influences and indigenous continuity.

Travelers require a visa for entry, which can be obtained through embassies or on arrival. International flights land on Bioko, with Malabo serving as the primary entry point. The mainland can be reached by ferry or domestic flights. The dry season from November to February offers the most favorable travel conditions when roads are more accessible. Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory and malaria prophylaxis is recommended.

Petroleum reserves discovered in the 1990s fundamentally transformed the economy, making the nation a major oil producer south of the Sahara. Pico Basile on Bioko reaches 9,878 feet (3,011 meters), forming the highest point in the territory. Annobón Island follows a divergent calendar for religious celebrations based on Portuguese traditions, distinct from other parts of the country.

Inception: October 12, 1968

Capital city: Ciudad de la Paz

Part of: Central Africa, Portuguese-speaking African countries

Shares border with: Cameroon, Gabon

Website: https://guineaecuatorialpress.com

GPS coordinates: 1.61317,10.51704

Latest update: December 4, 2025 12:00