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Overview
Those who travel to the Republic of Guinea will find this
beautiful and intriguing west African country to be a fantastic
getaway destination.
Surrounded by Guinea-Bissau, Senegal, Mali, Côte d'Ivoire,
Liberia and Sierra Leone, the country has somewhat illogical
borders that are a relic of the colonial era when this region was
shared out between European powers. Today those borders enclose a
very diverse population of ethnic and linguistic groups, and a
varied terrain that ranges from expansive savannah in the south to
the mountainous, heavily forested highlands in the north-west.
Indeed Guinea's chief attraction is its spectacular and mostly
unspoiled natural scenery. West Africa's three great rivers - the
Gambia, the Senegal and the Niger - all originate here. The
splendid Guinea Highlands is centered around Mount Nimba, the
highest point in the country, while the Fouta Djalon highlands is
renowned for its incredible views and superb hiking. Other places
of interest in Guinea include the spiritual centre of Kankan, the
high altitude town of Dalaba, party-mad Faranah, and the incredible
beaches of Cape Verga.
The population is mostly Muslim, French speaking and rural, with
the exception of the pleasant and relatively cosmopolitan capital
Conakry, located on the island of Tombo. The city is renowned for
its lively music scene and attractive layout.
Guinea's climate is tropical but mild with constant temperatures
throughout the year. The rainy season runs from June to
September.
Despite its worthwhile attractions Guinea remains one of the
least visited countries in Africa. Visas can be hard to get, which
may deter those travellers planning a trip here. The government,
despite some recent concessions, remains a de facto dictatorship
which means few freedoms for the people but generally safe
conditions for visitors.