Guinea

The territory spans roughly 95,000 square miles (246,000 square kilometers) along West Africa's Atlantic coastline, sharing borders with Senegal, Mali, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea-Bissau. The terrain divides into four geographical zones: coastal plains in the west, highland plateaus in the center, savanna landscapes in the northeast and dense forest areas in the southeast.

The area formed part of the Mali Empire from the ninth century and later the Songhai Empire before Portuguese traders arrived in the fifteenth century. France established colonial control during the late nineteenth century, incorporating the region into French West Africa until independence came on October 2, 1958.

The population practices diverse religious traditions, with Islamic customs coexisting alongside indigenous belief systems that shape daily routines and community life. Over twenty ethnic groups inhabit the territory, each maintaining distinct cultural expressions through music, textiles and social structures that preserve regional identities across generations.

The best time to visit runs from November through April during the dry season, when roads remain passable and temperatures stay more moderate. International flights arrive at Conakry airport, while overland travel at borders with neighboring nations requires patience and flexible planning due to infrastructure challenges.

The Fouta Djallon highlands serve as West Africa's water tower, with major rivers including the Niger, Senegal and Gambia originating there and supplying millions of people across multiple nations. The territory holds roughly one third of global bauxite reserves, ranking sixth in worldwide production, with substantial gold and diamond deposits.

Inception: October 2, 1958

Capital city: Conakry

Part of: West Africa

Shares border with: Ivory Coast, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Senegal, Sierra Leone

Website: http://presidence.gov.gn

GPS coordinates: 10.72262,-10.70836

Latest update: November 30, 2025 18:55