Guinea Travel Safety

Road safety

Local driving habits, the lack of road and traffic signs, poorly maintained vehicles and roads, pedestrians and livestock pose hazards to drivers. In the event of an accident, you should proceed to the nearest police station or medical facility, as roadside assistance and ambulance services are not available. It is not rare for travellers to encounter improvised roadblocks (including on the Conakry airport road) erected by armed groups or military troops. Payment or proof of identity may be required at these roadblocks. The following documents should be carried at all times: copies of identity papers (passport and visa), vaccination record, vehicle registration (grey card), valid driver's licence, proof of road insurance and vehicle safety check certificate.

Public transportation

Guinea has no official public transportation system. Although informal means of communal transport exist, such as taxis and buses, they should be used with extreme caution. Airline companies offer regular links from Conakry to the cities of Kankan, Labé, N'Zérékoré and Siguiri.

Women's safety

Guinea is generally safe, women travelling alone should maintain personal security awareness. Avoid dark or non-tourist areas at night. Instead try to be around larger crowds, whether they are fellow tourists or local citizens. Women, particularly foreigners may be subject to unwanted male attention and catcalls in certain places. Be vigilant if approached by strangers seeking assistance and exercise common precautions throughout your travel.

Piracy

Pirate attacks occur in coastal waters, and in some cases, further out at sea. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Crime

Armed robbery, carjackings, assaults, muggings and break-ins are on the rise in Conakry and the surrounding province. These violent crimes are often perpetrated by men wearing military or police uniforms. Violent crime is prevalent, especially in Conakry and in some rural areas, such as Kankan. Foreigners are often the target of crime, especially at airports. Exercise caution at airports and hotels, where offers of unsolicited assistance may come from persons seeking an opportunity to steal luggage, purses or wallets. The risk of robberies and armed attacks increases after dark. Arrange to arrive at the airport during the day and be met there by reliable contacts. Drive with doors locked and windows rolled up at all time. Petty crime such as pickpocketing and purse-snatching is common, particularly in the Madina, Niger and Taouyah markets, and often employs children. Do not show signs of affluence. Ensure personal belongings and travel documents are secure at all times, and remain alert to your surroundings, especially at night.

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism. Terrorist targets could include government buildings, public areas such as bars, restaurants, hotels and sites frequented by Westerners. Be aware of your surroundings in public places.

Culture

Islamic practices and beliefs are closely adhered to in the country's customs, laws and regulations. Common sense and discretion should be exercised in dress and behaviour. You should dress conservatively and respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities. The use of drugs prohibited. Transgressors could be punished by detention or other penalties. During the lunar month of Ramadan (the ninth month of the Muslim calendar), use discretion when drinking, eating, and smoking in public between sunrise and sunset.

LGBT

Although homosexuality is not explicitly mentioned in the Guinean Penal Code, Article 325 of the Code states that "indecent acts and acts against nature committed with an individual of the same sex will be punished by imprisonment of six months to three years and a fine of 100,000 to 1,000,000 Guinean francs. If the act is with a minor of less than 21 years, the maximum sentence will be pronounced. If the act is committed with violence or attempted violence the sentence will be 5-10 years". There are no reports of any attacks on persons linked to their sexuality. However, homosexuality is not widely accepted or understood.

Illegal drugs

Don't become involved with drugs of any kind.

Driving

An International Driving Permit is required.