Equatorial Guinea

Travel tips for Equatorial Guinea: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Cash is essential. Equatorial Guinea is a strictly cash-based economy where you must carry Central African CFA francs (XAF) for all daily expenses, as ATMs are unreliable and cards are rarely accepted outside a few high-end international hotels in Malabo.

Try the food

  • Peanut Fish Soup (Sopa de Pescado con Cacahuete): A rich, savory soup made with fresh fish simmered in a thick, spicy peanut broth.
  • Succotash: A hearty, comforting mix of lima beans, sweet corn, and tomatoes cooked with local herbs.
  • Bambara: A traditional, earthy porridge made from ground Bambara nuts that can be served sweet or savory.

Say it in Spanish

  • Hello: Hola
  • Thank you: Gracias
  • Please: Por favor
  • Excuse me: Perdón
  • How much is this?: ¿Cuánto cuesta esto?
  • The bill please: La cuenta, por favor
  • Yes/No: Sí/No
  • Goodbye: Adiós

Essentials

Plugs
Type C / Type E
Voltage
220V, 50Hz
Driving
Right side
Tap water
Avoid — buy bottled
Emergency
114 (Police), 112 (Ambulance), 115 (Fire)
SIM tip
Purchase a physical SIM card from GETESA or Muni at official stores in Malabo, as eSIM coverage and availability remain very limited.

Etiquette

Tipping is not strictly expected, but leaving a 10 percent gratuity for good service in upscale restaurants or hotels is highly appreciated.

Airports in Equatorial Guinea