Top Things to Do in Equatorial Guinea (First-Time Visitor’s Guide)
Equatorial Guinea is one of Africa’s least-visited countries, and that’s exactly what makes it so fascinating. Split between a mainland region and Bioko Island, the country blends Spanish colonial history, Central African culture, and dramatic volcanic landscapes.
Most travelers start in Malabo, the capital city on Bioko Island in the Gulf of Guinea. I spent three to four days here and, admittedly, did not find it to be the most exciting destination. The city lacks major attractions, and I was hoping to see more visible Spanish influence in the urban center. Beyond a handful of colonial buildings and a cathedral, that influence is surprisingly subtle — both architecturally and in the local cuisine.
Equatorial Guinea is also currently under one of the world’s longest-running modern dictatorships. Despite the country’s immense oil wealth, very little of that prosperity is visible on the surface. With the tense political situation, I found my time in the country to be fairly restricted. Arriving as a photographer with a significant amount of camera gear immediately drew suspicion and made for a difficult entry, including the confiscation of my drone. On top of that, many of the island’s main sites and day trips require explicit government permission, often involving a slow and archaic approval process. If you plan to explore beyond the city, I highly recommend arranging permits well in advance.
All of that aside, I still made an effort to enjoy what Malabo does offer — from colorful plazas and cultural centers to lush rainforests and a dramatic volcanic peak. Below is my list of the top things to do in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea.
1. Visit St. Elizabeth’s Cathedral at Independence Square
Right in the heart of Malabo, St. Elizabeth’s Cathedral is the city’s most iconic landmark. Built during the Spanish colonial era, the neo-Gothic cathedral dominates Independence Square, with its twin towers visible from much of downtown.
The square itself is a natural starting point for exploring the city, surrounded by government buildings and a mix of colonial and modern architecture. Unfortunately, due to its proximity to the presidential palace, the day I visited the plaza was swarmed with heavily armed military personnel, which made the experience feel more tense than relaxing. Because of this, I didn’t spend much time lingering around what is otherwise Malabo’s most iconic public space, complete with fountains and benches decorated with distinctive Spanish tiles.
2. Explore the Cultural Center of Equatorial Guinea
To understand Equatorial Guinea beyond the surface, a visit to the Cultural Center of Equatorial Guinea is essential. Located just down the road from Independence Square, the building stands out with its bold yellow-and-red spires.
The center highlights the country’s diverse ethnic groups, traditions, art, music, and history. Exhibits rotate throughout the year, and depending on the timing, you may encounter performances, art shows, or cultural events. During my visit, the center appeared to be between major exhibitions and felt somewhat underwhelming at first. However, the curator generously took me into a locked back room to view artifacts intended for future displays. According to him, the center is expected to be fully outfitted by late 2025 — which should make this a much more enriching stop for future visitors.
3. Visit the Spanish Cultural Center
Equatorial Guinea is the only Spanish-speaking country in Africa, and the Spanish Cultural Center offers insight into that unique historical and cultural relationship. The space hosts exhibitions, film screenings, language programs, and art installations tied to both Spanish and Equatoguinean culture.
Even if no event is happening during your visit, it’s still worth stopping by to see how Spanish influence continues to shape daily life, education, and artistic expression in the country.
4. Walk the Malabo Promenade to Plaza de Equatorial Guinea
One of the best ways to experience Malabo is simply by walking. The waterfront promenade stretches along the coast and leads toward Plaza de Equatorial Guinea, home to an enormous flagpole — one of the tallest in the region.
This walk offers views of the ocean, passing traffic, and everyday city life. It’s especially enjoyable in the late afternoon or early evening when the heat fades and locals come out to stroll and socialize. Along the promenade, you’ll find small cafés and pedestrian-friendly spots where you can take a break, enjoy a cold drink, and look out over the coastline.
5. Sunset Drinks at Candy Vista Puerto (Rooftop Bar)
For one of the best views in Malabo, head up to Candy Vista Puerto, a rooftop bar overlooking the city, the port, and the green slopes of Bioko Island’s mountains.
It’s an ideal place for sunset — watching ships drift in the harbor as the sky changes color above the city. Whether you stop by for a drink or a full meal, this was easily one of the highlights of my time in Malabo and a nice contrast to the day’s exploring.
6. Escape the City at Malabo National Park
Just outside the city, closer to the airport, Malabo National Park offers a completely different side of Equatorial Guinea. Dense rainforest plants, towering trees, and the sounds of birds and insects replace traffic and concrete almost immediately.
The park also doubles as a sculpture garden, with bold, colorful artworks scattered throughout the greenery and around small ponds. It’s a great spot for a short hike, a nature walk, or simply to experience the biodiversity that covers much of Bioko Island.
7. Take a Day Trip to Pico Basile (Bioko Island’s Highest Point)
One of the most memorable experiences in Equatorial Guinea is a day trip to Pico Basile, the highest point on Bioko Island and one of the tallest peaks in the country.
The drive up winds through thick forest and clouds, with temperatures dropping noticeably as you climb. On clear days, you’re rewarded with sweeping views over Malabo, the coastline, and even neighboring countries across the water. Even when the summit is wrapped in mist, the journey itself — through dramatic, ever-changing landscapes — is worth it.
Near the top, we stopped at a church that has become a pilgrimage site for many on the island. At the crater, we caught a few fleeting glimpses of the volcano’s lush shape through breaks in the clouds. On the way back down, we made several stops for dense jungle hikes, keeping an eye out for Preuss’s monkeys, which are native to the island.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Equatorial Guinea
Equatorial Guinea isn’t a typical travel destination — and that’s exactly its appeal. From Spanish colonial remnants to volcanic landscapes and evolving cultural spaces, it offers a mix of experiences you won’t find anywhere else in Africa.
If you’re looking for a destination that feels genuinely off the beaten path, Equatorial Guinea — and especially Malabo — delivers, though it comes with real challenges that travelers should be prepared for.
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