Guinea-Bissau

The Bijagós Archipelago is a mystical labyrinth of 88 islands and islets, only a handful of which are inhabited. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is a must-visit for nature lovers seeking one of Africa’s most pristine environments. Start your journey in Bubaque, the most accessible island, which serves as a gateway to the more remote reaches of the archipelago. From here, you can arrange boat trips to Orango National Park to catch a glimpse of the rare saltwater hippos or visit the sacred island of Canhabaque.

Navigating these waters requires coordination. Ferries from the port in Bissau to Bubaque typically run once a week, costing roughly 15,000 XOF ($25 USD) for a round trip. Because schedules can be unpredictable, using the trip planning tool in the Hello app helps you keep your itinerary flexible. While the islands feel worlds away, you can stay connected by activating a Hello eSIM before you leave the mainland. Having data allows you to check tide charts or contact local guesthouses like Ponta Anchaca while you’re on the move. Remember that the Bijagós culture is deeply traditional; always ask for permission before taking photos of locals or sacred sites.

Bissau, the capital, offers a unique blend of crumbling Mediterranean charm and vibrant West African energy. Spend an afternoon wandering through Bissau Velho, the historic center, where colonial-era buildings are draped in bougainvillea. As evening falls, follow the scent of grilled meats to the local "parrilladas." You must try Cafriela de frango—succulent grilled chicken marinated in a spicy lime and onion sauce—or the rich Caldo de mancarra, a hearty peanut stew that is a national staple.

A meal at a mid-range restaurant in the capital will generally cost between 6,000 XOF and 12,000 XOF ($10–$20 USD). To keep your finances in check, use the budget tracking feature in the Hello app to record your meals in the local West African CFA Franc. If you are dining with fellow travelers, the expense splitting tool is incredibly handy for dividing the bill for a shared plate of chechu (dried fish) or a round of local brews. For a truly local experience, head to the Bandim Market, where you can find everything from intricate hand-woven textiles to fresh cashews, which are among the best in the world.

Traveling between towns in Guinea-Bissau is an adventure in itself. The primary mode of transport is the candonga, a shared minibus or taxi that connects Bissau to regional hubs like Gabú or São Domingos. These vehicles don’t follow a strict schedule; they depart when full. A seat in a candonga for a three-hour journey will typically cost around 3,500 XOF ($6 USD). While these rides are affordable, they can be cramped, so it is often worth paying for an extra seat if you have large luggage.

Cash is the undisputed king in Guinea-Bissau. While Bissau has several ATMs (look for Banco da África Ocidental), they can be unreliable or run out of cash, and they are virtually non-existent in rural areas or on the islands. It is essential to carry enough XOF for your entire trip outside the capital. By using the Hello app to track your spending, you can ensure you don't run low on physical currency before reaching your next destination. If you're sharing a private taxi for a long-distance haul—which might cost upwards of 60,000 XOF ($100 USD)—the expense splitting feature ensures everyone pays their fair share without the awkwardness of manual calculations.