Is Equatorial Guinea Safe? A Real Traveler's Guide for 2025 - Xplrverse

My Journey Through Equatorial Guinea: Personal Insights

I’ll never forget my first night in Malabo back in 2019. After hearing countless warnings about safety in Equatorial Guinea, I found myself gripping my bag tightly while walking from a restaurant to my hotel, jumping at every shadow. By my third visit last year, I was confidently navigating local markets, chatting with fishermen in Bata, and even venturing solo to Bioko’s remote beaches. The gap between perception and reality in Equatorial Guinea is perhaps wider than for any destination I’ve visited in Africa.

Having spent nearly six months in the country across multiple trips, I’ve developed a nuanced understanding of safety in Africa’s only Spanish-speaking nation. While Equatorial Guinea certainly has its challenges, my experience differs dramatically from the dire warnings often found online. This guide shares what I’ve learned to help you navigate this fascinating and often misunderstood nation safely in 2025.

Safety Overview: The Current Situation in 2025

Equatorial Guinea has a complex safety profile. It’s one of the wealthier countries in Central Africa with a relatively low crime rate compared to neighboring nations, but political tensions and restrictions can create challenges for visitors. Here’s the current reality:

“Equatorial Guinea isn’t dangerous in the conventional sense of violent crime, but rather challenging due to its restrictive political environment, infrastructure limitations, and healthcare access issues.” – My journal entry, February 2024

Quick Safety Rating Table

Safety Aspect	Rating (1-10)	Notes
Violent Crime	7/10	Relatively uncommon compared to regional neighbors
Petty Theft	5/10	Occurs in tourist areas and markets
Political Stability	4/10	Authoritarian regime with occasional tensions
Health Risks	3/10	Malaria prevalent; limited medical facilities
Road Safety	3/10	Poor road conditions, especially outside cities
Natural Disasters	8/10	Few major natural threats

The 2025 situation reflects gradual improvements in infrastructure and slightly more openness to tourism, though fundamental safety conditions remain similar to recent years.

Regional Safety Breakdown: Where to Go (and Where to Avoid)

Malabo (Bioko Island)

The capital city is generally the safest area for tourists, particularly in the diplomatic quarter and newer developments. I’ve walked around downtown Malabo during daylight hours with no issues, though I’m always careful with valuables.

Areas to exercise caution:

Peripheral neighborhoods after dark
The port area, especially at night
Crowded markets where pickpocketing can occur

Bata (Continental Region)

Bata, the largest city on the mainland, feels noticeably different from Malabo. While still relatively safe during the day, I’ve found it requires more caution, especially after dark.

On my last visit, I stayed near Bata’s seaside promenade (Paseo Marítimo) which I found to be well-patrolled and comfortable for evening walks. The central market area is vibrant during the day but best avoided after sunset.

Rural Areas & National Parks

My favorite experiences in Equatorial Guinea have been in its stunning natural areas, including Monte Alén National Park. These areas are physically safe but present logistical and access challenges.

In 2025, visitors still need permits for many areas and should travel with local guides. The remoteness means help is far away if anything goes wrong, from vehicle breakdowns to medical emergencies.

Political Situation & Police Interactions

The most significant safety factor in Equatorial Guinea isn’t traditional crime but navigating the authoritarian political landscape. During my visits, I’ve learned that understanding how to interact with authorities is crucial.

Photography Restrictions

My biggest mistake on my first trip was casually taking photos of government buildings in Malabo. I quickly found myself surrounded by police demanding to see my camera and passport. I’ve since learned that photography is highly restricted:

Never photograph government buildings, police, or military installations
Ask permission before taking photos of people or infrastructure
Be particularly careful near the presidential palace and ministry buildings

Documentation Checks

Police checkpoints are common, especially on roads between cities. I’ve been stopped at least a dozen times across my trips. Tips for handling these encounters:

Always carry your passport (with visa) and a photocopy
Remain polite and cooperative
Speak Spanish if possible – it greatly improves interactions
Have your hotel information and itinerary ready to explain
Don’t volunteer cash, but small “facilitation fees” are sometimes expected

In 2025, there’s been a slight easing of these encounters for tourists, but the fundamental approach remains necessary.

Common Crimes & How to Avoid Them

Equatorial Guinea has lower crime rates than many African countries, but visitors should still be aware of potential issues:

Petty Theft

During my second trip, I had my phone lifted from my pocket in Malabo’s central market. It happened so smoothly I didn’t notice until much later. To avoid a similar fate:

Use money belts or hidden pouches for valuables
Avoid displaying expensive electronics or jewelry
Be especially vigilant in crowded places
Use hotel safes for passports and extra cash

Scams

Common scams I’ve encountered include:

Unofficial “fees”: Various officials may demand payments for made-up violations or services
Currency exchange scams: Always count your money carefully when exchanging currency
Overcharging: Negotiate taxi fares before getting in and confirm prices for goods/services upfront

The phrase “No estoy interesado, gracias” (I’m not interested, thank you) has served me well when dealing with persistent touts or scammers.

Health & Safety: Staying Well in Equatorial Guinea

Medical facilities in Equatorial Guinea are limited, making prevention crucial. I learned this lesson the hard way when I caught malaria during my first visit despite taking antimalarials inconsistently.

Essential Health Precautions

Malaria prevention: Take prescribed antimalarials consistently and use insect repellent
Water safety: Drink only bottled or purified water
Food safety: Eat at established restaurants; be cautious with street food
Medical kit: Bring a comprehensive travel medical kit
Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance with evacuation coverage is essential

In 2025, La Paz Medical Center in Malabo remains the best medical facility in the country, but for serious issues, medical evacuation to Europe or Cameroon is still often necessary.

Covid-19 Situation in 2025

While entry requirements have relaxed since the pandemic’s height, it’s still advisable to check the latest requirements before traveling. As of early 2025, Equatorial Guinea no longer requires PCR tests for vaccinated travelers, but this can change if new variants emerge.

Transportation Safety: Getting Around Safely

Getting around Equatorial Guinea presents significant safety challenges. The roads between Malabo and Luba improved dramatically in 2023-2024, but many other routes remain difficult.

Road Travel

During my 2024 visit, I hired a driver for a week to explore the mainland. This proved much safer than my first trip when I attempted to navigate public transportation. My recommendations:

Hire reputable drivers through hotels when possible
Avoid night driving completely
Don’t use motorcycle taxis (they’re involved in many accidents)
Be prepared for frequent police checkpoints

Public Transportation

Public transit is limited and can be unpredictable:

Shared taxis (often marked by yellow stripes) operate in cities
Minibuses run between major towns but are often overcrowded
The ferry between Malabo and Bata is reasonable but schedules change frequently

I prefer to arrange transportation through my accommodation when possible, as they typically work with trusted drivers who know how to navigate checkpoints smoothly.

Accommodation Safety: Where to Stay

Hotel security in Equatorial Guinea varies dramatically. I’ve stayed everywhere from the luxurious Sofitel Malabo Sipopo Le Golf to small guesthouses in Bata, and found security to be generally good at established properties.

Recommended Safe Options

In Malabo: Hilton Malabo, Sofitel Sipopo, Hotel Miramar
In Bata: Hotel Carmen, Hotel Federación
In smaller towns: Arrangements are best made through tour operators

When booking accommodation, I prioritize properties with:

24-hour security staff
Secure parking (if bringing a vehicle)
In-room safes
Backup power generators (power outages are common)

Money Safety: Cash, Cards, and Currency

Financial safety requires planning in Equatorial Guinea. The CFA franc (XAF) is the local currency, and cash remains king.

Banking & ATMs

On my first trip, I naively assumed I could rely on ATMs and was quickly stranded without cash when none accepted my cards. The situation has improved slightly by 2025, but remain prepared:

Bring enough euros to exchange for your entire trip
BBVA and Ecobank ATMs in Malabo occasionally work with foreign cards
Credit cards are accepted only at high-end hotels and some restaurants

Money-Saving Insider Tips

Equatorial Guinea is notoriously expensive, but these lesser-known strategies have saved me thousands of CFA over my visits:

Exchange money at hotels: Surprisingly, I’ve found better rates at upscale hotels than at banks or exchange offices
Negotiate long-stay discounts: For stays of a week or more, negotiate directly with hotels for 15-30% discounts (this works best in person)
Use the local app “MiTienda EG”: This newer service connects you with local vendors at better prices than tourist-focused establishments

The current exchange rate (as of early 2025) is approximately 1 EUR = 655 XAF, but always verify current rates.

Communication & Connectivity Safety

Staying connected is both a convenience and a safety measure. My communication strategy has evolved with each visit:

Mobile Connectivity

The mobile network has improved significantly since my first visit:

Main providers are GETESA and Muni (I prefer Muni for better data coverage)
SIM cards cost around 5,000 XAF (approximately 7.60 EUR)
Registration requires passport identification
Coverage is good in major cities but spotty in rural areas

A local phrase worth knowing: “¿Hay señal aquí?” (Is there a signal here?)

Internet Restrictions

Internet access has political dimensions in Equatorial Guinea. During periods of political tension (like elections), authorities have restricted access to social media platforms. In 2025, VPN services remain essential for reliable access to platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, and Twitter.

Cultural Awareness for Safety

One of my biggest safety advantages has been developing cultural understanding. Equatorial Guinea’s unique Spanish-African culture has specific etiquette that, when respected, can help avoid unnecessary trouble.

Key Cultural Considerations

Formal greetings matter: Always greet people formally before beginning any conversation or transaction
Respect authority figures: Show deference to officials, elders, and those in positions of power
Dress modestly: Despite the heat, locals dress conservatively; shorts and sleeveless tops can attract unwanted attention
Ask before photographing: Always request permission for photos of people or property

Useful Local Phrases

Spanish is the official language, and knowing a few phrases can improve your safety and experience:

“Buenos días/tardes/noches” – Good morning/afternoon/evening
“Por favor, ¿puede ayudarme?” – Please, can you help me?
“Necesito un médico” – I need a doctor
“¿Es seguro ir a…?” – Is it safe to go to…?

In the Rio Muni region, you might also hear “Akiba” as a greeting in Fang, one of the local languages.

Solo Travel & Women’s Safety

As a solo traveler for two of my trips to Equatorial Guinea, I’ve developed specific strategies for staying safe while alone:

Solo Travel Considerations

Register with your embassy’s citizen services
Share your itinerary with someone trustworthy
Connect with hotel staff who can recommend trusted drivers and guides
Consider joining organized tours for remote areas

Women-Specific Safety Tips

Female friends who’ve visited Equatorial Guinea have shared these insights:

Unwanted attention can occur, particularly in bars and nightlife areas
Dressing conservatively reduces (but doesn’t eliminate) harassment
Being firm but polite when declining advances is usually effective
Having a local contact (guide, hotel concierge) can help navigate uncomfortable situations

“I felt generally safe during daylight hours in public places, but took extra precautions at night, always using hotel-arranged transportation rather than hailing taxis.” – Elena, a fellow traveler I met in Bata

Emergency Procedures

Knowing what to do in emergencies is essential in a country with limited services:

Emergency Contacts

Police: 115
Fire: 112
Ambulance: 112
Tourist Police: +240 222 196 223 (Malabo)

Response times and services vary significantly. In many cases, contacting your hotel or tour operator may be more effective than calling emergency services directly.

Embassy Support

Before traveling, register with your country’s embassy or consulate in Equatorial Guinea. The U.S. maintains an embassy in Malabo, while other nations may provide services through neighboring countries.

The U.S. Embassy in Malabo can be reached at +240 333 095 741 for emergencies involving American citizens.

Sustainability & Ethical Travel

Traveling responsibly in Equatorial Guinea not only reduces your environmental impact but can also enhance your safety:

Sustainable Practices That Save Money

Bring a water purifier: I use a SteriPen which has saved me thousands on bottled water while reducing plastic waste
Shop at local markets: You’ll find fresher food at better prices while supporting local vendors
Use shared transportation: When safe, shared taxis cost a fraction of private vehicles

Ethical Considerations

Equatorial Guinea has complex political and human rights issues. As visitors, we should:

Respect local customs and laws while not participating in exploitative practices
Support community-based tourism initiatives where possible
Be aware that criticizing the government publicly can create problems for both you and any locals involved in the conversation

Conclusion: Is Equatorial Guinea Safe in 2025?

After multiple visits spanning several years, my honest assessment is that Equatorial Guinea is moderately safe for travelers who prepare properly and understand the unique challenges. It’s not dangerous in terms of violent crime, but requires awareness of political sensitivities, health risks, and infrastructure limitations.

The country rewards prepared visitors with stunning natural beauty, fascinating cultural experiences, and far fewer tourists than you’ll find in more established African destinations. I’ve made lifelong memories and connections here, despite the occasional challenges.

5-Step Action Plan for a Safe Trip

Pre-departure preparation: Secure visas well in advance, get required vaccinations, and register with your embassy
Health planning: Pack a comprehensive medical kit, arrange travel insurance with evacuation coverage, and start antimalarials before arrival
Financial readiness: Bring adequate euros for your entire trip, with contingency funds
Communication setup: Download maps offline, install a reliable VPN, and prepare a list of emergency contacts
Local connections: Arrange trusted accommodations and transportation in advance rather than improvising upon arrival

The effort required to visit Equatorial Guinea safely in 2025 is significant, but for those seeking authentic experiences in one of Africa’s least-visited countries, the rewards are equally substantial.

FAQ: Safety in Equatorial Guinea

Is it safe to drink tap water in Equatorial Guinea?

No, tap water is not safe to drink. Use bottled water with sealed caps or purify water yourself with reliable methods like boiling or UV treatment. Even in upscale hotels, I use purified water for brushing teeth.

Are there areas in Equatorial Guinea that tourists should avoid entirely?

The border regions with Cameroon and Gabon should generally be avoided due to occasional security incidents. Additionally, the neighborhoods of Sumco and Campo Yaoundé in Malabo have higher crime rates, especially after dark.

How strict are the authorities about photography?

Extremely strict. Never photograph military installations, government buildings, airports, ports, or infrastructure like bridges and power plants. I’ve seen tourists have cameras confiscated for innocent photos that included government buildings in the background.

Is it safe to discuss politics with locals?

This is inadvisable. Political discussions can put locals at risk and potentially create problems for you. Equatorial Guinea has limited political freedom, and critical comments about the government can have serious consequences.

What is the safest way to exchange money?

Major hotels offer the safest and often best exchange rates. Banks are also reliable but may have limited hours. Avoid street money changers entirely, as counterfeit currency and scams are common.

Are credit cards widely accepted?

No. Outside of luxury hotels and a few upscale restaurants in Malabo, credit cards are rarely accepted. Cash is essential for most transactions.

Is it safe for LGBTQ+ travelers to visit Equatorial Guinea?

LGBTQ+ travelers should exercise extreme caution. Same-sex relationships are not legally protected, and public displays of affection can lead to harassment or worse. Most LGBTQ+ travelers visit discreetly and present as friends or business associates.

What should I do if stopped at a police checkpoint?

Remain calm and polite. Present requested documents (typically passport and visa) without argument. Speak Spanish if possible. Don’t volunteer money, but small “facilitation fees” may be expected. If facing serious problems, ask to contact your embassy.