Equatorial Guinea is committed to promoting alternative, clean and sustainable tourism.
Such tourism takes care to protect the country’s nature and diversity of fauna and flora, one of the richest in West Africa. Ecotourism minimises the negative aspects of conventional tourism on the environment and enhance the cultural integrity of local people.
This type of tourism flourishes in Equatorial Guinea due to its location in an area of Central Africa known for its biodiversity; the region has the second largest forest in the world and is the most bio-diverse area after the Amazon, providing a ‘green lung’ for the African continent. The diverse flora of the country is contained in 13 protected areas, which include natural parks, scientific reserves, natural monuments and wildlife sanctuaries.
To protect all this natural wealth, in 2012 the Government of Equatorial Guinea launched a new campaign that aims to raise awareness about the country’s natural treasures. The government of Equatorial Guinea remains committed to the preservation and conservation of the natural environment, and has gone to great lengths to ensure that this is not made vulnerable by the country’s increasing urbanisation and modernity.
Despite being one of the smallest countries in Africa, Equatorial Guinea has one of the most diverse landscapes and greatest biodiversity in the continent. The region ranges from clear beaches with black volcanic sands to vibrant rainforests and towering mountains. At least three-quarters of the inland region of Equatorial Guinea is covered by forest, mostly dense tropical jungle characterised by outstandingly tall plant life. The natural fauna of the region includes antelopes, big cats, elephants, hippos and manatees, but the most well-known are the diversity of primates, including gorillas, chimpanzees and mandrills. Reptiles are also a key element of Equatorial Guinea’s biodiversity, with four species of sea turtles living along the coast.
Among places of interest, where visitors can enjoy beautiful landscapes of Equatorial Guinea are:
Island of Bioko – Apart from the capital, the Island of Bioko offers a lush scenery of hills born of old volcanoes. It’s also where to find the famous huge white sandy beaches, beautiful and deserted, that you can enjoy for your own. Among those beaches, the Arena Blanca is a popular one deemed as one of the most beautiful of the country. Hikers and divers will also find plenty to do there !
Caldera de Luba Scientific Reserve – Containing one of the richest ecosystems in Africa, this reserve is an opportunity to observe primates and other animals in their natural environment. There’s also a chance of encountering marine turtles on the beautiful beach of dark sand.
Monte Alen National Park – A paradise for nature and animal lovers. This National Park is equipped with trails and campsites to discover the wonders of the surrounding rain forest. The Rio Muni passes through, bringing amazing wildlife : gorillas, elephants, crocodiles and much more.
Elobey Grande Island – A small island, a little paradise, that will satisfy anybody that ever dreamed of finding himself stranded on a deserted island. Also a popular choice as a day trip from Gabon.
National Parks – National Parks are plenty in Equatorial Guinea. The Monte Temelon Natural Reserve and the Pico Basile National Park are also worth a visit to wander in the jungle and see more wildlife.
San Antonia de Pale – The capital of the island of Annobón, San Antonia de Pale is still a small town, but worth a visit to discover the breathtaking surrounding landscapes of the island.