Guinea is a remarkable country with very warm, genuine people but little infrastructure. The modern country is sometimes referred to as Guinea-Conakry to distinguish it from other countries with “Guinea” in the name and the eponymous region, such as Guinea-Bissau and Equatorial Guinea.

Outside of *Conakry, there are many attractive tourism destinations for the adventurous traveler.

Infrastructure, such as hotels, roads etc. is lacking outside of the capital but you can find basic places to stay with limited electricity powered by generators.

*Loos Islands (map) — a former slaving base, these forested islands with sandy beaches near Conakry are a popular weekend escape for expats. *Dalaba (map) — a small town often dubbed the “Switzerland of Guinea” because of its relatively mild temperatures and nice scenery.

Fouta Trekking is a local non-profit that promotes equitable tourism. They offer hiking tours ranging from three to five days or tailored tours. Tourists stay in villages with part of the revenue going back to the villages for community development.

Malaria is prevalent in Guinea. It is transmitted year-round, with peak transmission from July through October. Taxis are very inexpensive, even if you want to rent one for a half or whole day. Expect to have to stop for gas almost immediately after you get in the car. There are no buses.