• This small, former Portuguese colony lies on Africa’s west coast south of Senegal. The GDP is quite low and political instability is a constant.
• The legitimate economy depends on the production of cashew and ground nuts, but unfortunately, it is also a major hub for cocaine smuggled from Latin America to Europe.
• The 240 kms (150 miles) of coastline is indented with numerous river entrances, most of which are shallow. The major estuary is that of Geba River on which lies the capital and principal port of Bissau.
• The off-lying islands of the Bijagos Archipelago, one of which forms the Orange National Park, are rich in all types of fish and wildlife – a real unspoilt paradise. Navigation requires great care because of strong currents and shallow water. A shallow keeled boat and careful planning are required. See links and publications for useful cruising guides to this area.
• It is necessary to be completely self-sufficient when cruising the Archipelago as there are no services of any kind. For navigation, the British Admiralty charts are good and surprisingly accurate except for sandbanks that may have moved. Electronic charts based on them are also good.
• Only a small proportion of the population speak the official language, Portuguese. Just less than half speak Kriol, a Portuguese-based creole language, and the remainder speak native African languages. French is taught in schools.

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