Words by Yvonne C Mtengwa
Guinea, a country celebrated for its rich cultural diversity and unspoiled natural beauty, last year invited me alongside other internationally based media, content creators and VIP government and private sector guests, to attend an event to mark the beginning of its annual tourism season. The town of Kindia, nestled in the lush greenery of western Guinea, was set to host an unforgettable opening ceremony, endorsing Guinea’s ambitions to leverage its untapped potential in the tourism sector.
This journey began with a 14-hour flight from Dubai to the capital Conakry, ushering me into six days of learning about Guinea through a combination of sightseeing, and connecting with the locals, who shed more light on the nation’s top destinations for the off-the-beaten-track traveller…
Guinea is an untapped showcase of an array of natural and cultural wonders, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore one of Africa’s unexplored gems. The Tourism Season Opening, dubbed La Saison Tourisque, is presented to locals and visiting guests as a gateway to discovering some of Guinea’s most captivating destinations, which include:
1. Les Chutes de Ditinn: The breathtaking Ditinn Falls are considered by most as the most famous falls in a land where plummeting water is a common sight. They are found 3.1 miles from Ditinn village, in the center of the country and come crashing off a 120-meter cliff, before cascading through dense rainforests. Visitors can trek through the pristine forests to reach these stunning waterfalls, taking in the lush flora and fauna along the way.
2. Fouta Djallon Highlands: One that the avid hiker will appreciate. Located in the heart of Guinea, the Fouta Djallon Highlands are a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, boasting rivers, waterfalls, and picturesque hiking trails that await adventure seekers in this region.
3. Îles de Loos: The Isles of Loos, a collection of serene islands in the Kaloum Peninsula, provide a tranquil escape for those looking to unwind on pristine beaches, partake in water sports, and explore the rich marine life just off the coast of Conakry. A short boat ride with the aid of a local guide should get you out there and exploring should you want to enjoy a day out picnicking on an untouched set of islands.
4. Mount Nimba Strict Nature Reserve: This UNESCO World Heritage Site, shared with neighbouring Côte d’Ivoire and Liberia, is a haven for biodiversity. Hiking through the lush rainforests reveals an array of unique flora and fauna and the pristine greenery for which Guinea is known.
5. Conakry: A must with every visit to a new country is exploring the vibrancy of its capital city. Conakry is in every sense a sensory overload, with a hive of activity on every street, corner, and city coastline. Vibrant markets are rife, colonial architecture invokes the spirit of bygone eras and a lively cultural scene sets the tone for an experience you’ll long speak on. You won’t miss the bustling streets; historic sites can be explored with a local guide and the Conakry Grand Mosque are must-see attractions.
Working towards Enhanced Ease of Travel and Connectivity
Guinea has been actively working to improve its travel infrastructure, making it more accessible to visitors from around the world. What stood out for me was how easy the e-visa application was, with the delivery of my visa within 24 hours from the point at which I made my online submission. Arrival was also a breeze, though I would recommend that one brushes up on their French. While our hosts from the Tourism Board spoke fluent English, few of the airport staff could assist English speakers when help was needed.
However, the key advancements to note include Guinea’s investment in modernizing the Ahmed Sékou Touré International Airport, also known as Gbessia International Airport, making it more convenient for international travellers. The Visa-on-Arrival service eases the entry process for tourists from various countries, simplifying travel arrangements.
While there is much to be done about the road networks within the cities, roads towards the countryside are continuously being developed, allowing for more accessible travel to remote areas and cultural attractions. Once we got out of the city (with a motorcade and military escort for our convoy of international guests and local dignitaries might I add!) the drive to Kindia was breathtaking, showcasing winding roads through steep, densely vegetated escarpments.
Where to stay in Guinea
Guinea’s accommodation choices cater to a diverse range of travellers, though likely better serving guests looking for more authentic, near rustic experience. We stayed at the Noom Hotel while in Conakry, a comfortable 4-star hotel on the coast which seemed to be an entertainment and special events haven for city dwellers.
I was to learn of the existence of several boutique hotels in Conakry (though I did not see them for myself) which provide personalized service and a touch of luxury, making them a favoured choice for business travellers and tourists. Kindia highlighted the availability of accommodations for those who wish to be closer to nature, as the country’s eco-lodges offer a unique blend of sustainability and adventure. Staying at eco-lodges near national parks like Mount Nimba provides a true wilderness experience. Budget-conscious travellers can turn to guesthouses in Conakry and other cities, designed to offer comfortable and economical accommodation options.
Tourism as an Economic Driver for Guinea?
I dare say that Guinea’s tourism infrastructure remains underdeveloped when perhaps compared with West African neighbours such as Senegal, Ghana, and Nigeria however, the objective of this invitation was to highlight the government of Guinea’s recognition of the potential of tourism as a significant economic driver. There is still plenty to be done to complement the richness in natural assets that exist in the country. Tourism not only creates employment opportunities but also enhances infrastructure development and local economies, and Guinea is committed to protecting its natural and cultural heritage while encouraging responsible tourism practices.
The annual Tourism Season Opening in Kindia is a testament to Guinea’s dedication to promoting tourism as a key sector for national development. The event showcases the country’s hidden treasures and invites travellers to explore its untouched beauty, as Guinea’s government continues to actively work with local communities, NGOs, and international partners to ensure sustainable and responsible tourism that benefits all stakeholders.
I came away with an appreciation of the effort it took to pull together resources for an event quite significant on the local calendar, which is a celebration of Guinea’s remarkable journey in harnessing its tourism potential. While the event provided a glimpse into the country’s top destinations, and a rallying call that Guinea is ready to welcome travellers from all corners of the globe to experience its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and diverse ecosystems, my biggest takeaway was that there ought to be a greater call encouraging the private sector to join hands with government to harness opportunities that will develop tourism infrastructure. In a nation exhibiting great potential, it remains to be seen the progress towards making Guiness a destination of greater interest to more international leisure travellers.
