Can I take photographs in Equatorial Guinea?

Photographing government or military buildings and airports is illegal and can lead to arrest, so the camera stays away from anything that looks official. Ports, presidential residences and members of the security forces call for the same caution. When unsure, ask a guide or host before raising the camera.

Are taxis safe at night in Malabo and Bata?

Taxi passengers in Malabo and Bata have been robbed and assaulted, particularly at night. After dark, a car with a driver arranged through the hotel or a host is a better choice than a taxi flagged down in the street. Avoid riding alone at night.

What should I do when stopped at a roadblock?

Police and military roadblocks are common on the country's roads. Stop, stay calm, show your passport or residence permit — or the copies — and follow the instructions you are given: failing to comply can lead to detention. Do not travel by road after dark, and time journeys between towns to end in daylight.

Health & safety

Travelling Safely in Equatorial Guinea: Papers, Nights and Health

Few people visit Equatorial Guinea for pleasure, and little is built for those who do, so a visit is planned, not improvised. Governments differ in what they advise and revise it as events change, so read your own government's current travel advice before booking and again just before departure.

Updated 2026-10-04

Crime and the hours after dark

Crime in Equatorial Guinea ranges from petty theft and mugging to carjacking and armed robbery. The risk is greater in the remote parts of towns, and particularly after dark. At night, avoid walking through quiet or outlying streets, and keep phones, cash and cameras out of sight wherever you go.

Papers, police and public gatherings

Carry your passport or residence permit at all times, as the original or a copy: failing to show identification when asked can lead to arrest. A copy of the photo page and the visa, kept apart from the original, also helps if the passport is lost. Stay away from political rallies, demonstrations and large public gatherings.

Malaria, yellow fever and mosquitoes

Malaria, dengue and Zika all occur in Equatorial Guinea, and all three are spread by mosquitoes, so repellent, long sleeves and a bed net or screened room belong to every trip. See a doctor or travel clinic well before departure about malaria prevention and the vaccinations the journey calls for. Yellow fever occurs as well, and a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required of every traveller for entry to Equatorial Guinea.

Drinking water, fresh water and altitude

Tap water is not safe to drink. Schistosomiasis, a parasitic disease picked up in fresh water, also occurs in the country. Altitude sickness is a risk on the high ground, such as the slopes of Pico Basilé, which rises to 3,011 metres on Bioko.

Medical care and insurance

Medical facilities are generally poor, with one hospital in Malabo the exception, and emergency facilities are extremely limited. Emergency telephone numbers and the emergency response are unreliable, so know before each outing how to reach your host, guide or driver. Travel insurance that covers medical treatment and repatriation is essential, and regular medicines are best brought for the whole stay.

Treat this Visaja page as your starting point: verify the current rules directly with the official source before you submit an application.