Equatorial Guinea

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

Please note that these numbers are often not operational:

• Dial 112 and 115 for fire related and medical emergencies. Please note that ambulance services are limited in Malabo and generally unavailable in most areas outside Malabo.
• Dial 113 and 114 for law enforcement related emergencies.

Demonstrations

• Demonstrations are not allowed and are rare.
• If you encounter a large gathering, avoid the area. It is likely an illegal demonstration.
• The police will attempt to disperse the crowd, including by use of force.

Crime

• Violent crime is rare. But violent burglaries or home invasions have happened.
• Travelers have experienced instances of hostility from local police and other officials, particularly toward individuals perceived to be of Western descent. Petty street crime and harassment may turn violent.
• Local police may lack resources to respond effectively to serious crimes.
• Security forces may stop people and request money.
• Take taxis only in groups. Use taxi drivers personally known to you, or avoid taxis altogether, especially in Bata. Avoid carrying large sums of cash in a taxi.
• Avoid dark alleys, remote locations, and traveling alone.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.

Financial scams and internet romance scams are common in Equatorial Guinea. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers often pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.

Common scams include:

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating
• Money transfers
• Grandparent and relative targeting
• Free trip or luggage
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits and job offers

If using dating apps or websites in Equatorial Guinea:

• Criminals may use dating apps to target potential victims for robbery or assault.
• Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone.
• Meet in a popular public place.
• Tell your family or friends all the details about the person you are meeting and how you met them (which app).
• Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in person.
• Avoid locations where you can be isolated, like hotel rooms, private apartments, or houses.
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant.
• Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible.
• Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers.
• Have a communication plan with friends or family. Send updates to them on an agreed schedule.

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 113 or 114.

• Please note that these numbers are often not operational.
• A police report costs 10,000 CFA for foreigners, which is approximately 20 USD. The price may vary as the fees are not officially published.

Review our information for Victims of Crime.

For consular services for crime victims in Equatorial Guinea, please contact the U.S. Embassy in Malabo. The U.S. Embassy can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

Rape and domestic violence are illegal in Equatorial Guinea. However, police do not enforce the laws effectively.

U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy in Malabo.

U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy in Malabo.

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.
• Many global cellular plans do not work, or do not work reliably, in Equatorial Guinea.  ESIM technology is relatively new to the country.  Travelers have had the most success with buying a local SIM card to make local calls and have access to data.  The cellular networks, however, are unreliable and may not always work.

Tourism safety

No formal tourism industry infrastructure is in place.

• Tourists participate in activities at their own risk.
• Emergency response and medical treatment are limited.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance.

Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. 
• Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Equatorial Guinea, seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.

Arrest notification

If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy immediately. Additionally, you should contact a family member and the U.S. embassy as soon as possible.

Detention conditions

Prison and detention conditions for U.S. citizens arrested are often poor:

• There are high rates of violence between inmates.
• Inadequate living standards are common.
• Detainees frequently face challenges in receiving funds, medications, and hygiene items.
• Consular officers may have challenges maintaining a consistent presence or conducting routine prison visits due to local restrictions.
• Food and nutrition are often of low quality.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws.
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers

Faith-based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources:

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

• There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in Equatorial Guinea.
• However, societal norms discourage public discussion of homosexuality, and members of the gay and lesbian community have faced harassment.
• The country does not have anti-discrimination laws to protect gay and lesbian individuals.
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with disabilities or accessibility needs

• Expect accessibility to be limited in lodging, communication or information, and general infrastructure.
• Sidewalks are often available in major cities, especially in Malabo and Bata. However, road crossings are uneven and curbs are in need of repair.
• Neither Malabo nor Bata has a public transportation system. Few vehicles are accessible to people with accessibility needs.
• Public buildings often do not provide accessibility, have steps, or have partially blocked entrances. This includes restaurants, bars, medical facilities, stores, and government offices.
• Accessibility (such as ramps) is somewhat common in lodging and general infrastructure in Malabo and Bata but not in rural areas.
• General public sentiment around disability is respectful to asking for assistance
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers

Sexual harassment and abuse are common in Equatorial Guinea.

• Women, particularly those perceived as Western, may experience frequent harassment.
• Rape and domestic violence are illegal. But enforcement of these laws by authorities is inconsistent and often ineffective.
• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information on Marriage.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

There have been credible reports of significant human rights issues, including:

• Torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment
• Arbitrary arrest or detention
• Serious restrictions on freedom of expression and media freedom, including censorship
• Trafficking in persons, including forced labor
• Prohibiting independent trade unions
• Restrictions on workers’ freedom of association

Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Equatorial Guinea Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism Information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers in Equatorial Guinea

Please note that these numbers are often not operational.

• Dial 112 and 115 for fire related and medical emergencies.
• Dial 113 and 114 for law enforcement related emergencies.

Ambulance services

Ambulance services are:

• Not present or unreliable in most areas, except for the cities of Malabo and Bata;
• Not equipped with advanced medical equipment;
• Not staffed with trained paramedics.

Training and response time of emergency responders may be poor.

Injured or very ill travelers might prefer to take a taxi or their own car to the nearest major hospital. This option can be faster than waiting for an ambulance.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Equatorial Guinea. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Private and public hospitals often need payment up front or proof of good insurance before providing treatment or admitting a patient.
• Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. Credit card payment is not always available.
• Lack of payment may bar future travel to Equatorial Guinea.
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance. If you purchase medical travel insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from your medical insurance. Be sure to follow their guidance and instructions for filing claims.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Vaccinations

The government of Equatorial Guinea requires a Yellow Fever vaccination card for entry.

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

• Health facilities are available in the cities of Malabo and Bata. It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.
• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment.
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment upfront prior to service or admission.
• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies.
• U.S. citizens have filed many complaints about unethical business practices. They have expressed concern about high prices and collection methods from some private hospitals in Malabo and Bata. Before agreeing to any medical care, travelers should gather full details on billing, pricing, and proposed medical procedures.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Generally, in hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight in non-emergency wards. Consider hiring a private nurse.
• We strongly recommend having family stay the night with the patient, especially a child.
• Patients must cover all costs for transferring to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.
• Hospital-based care is only available through government institutions.

Prescription medications

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
• Be sure to bring enough of your prescriptions (as well as over-the-counter medications) to last the duration of your trip.
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls.
• Counterfeit medication is common and may not work, have the wrong strength, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Non-traditional medicine

We strongly recommend against participating in traditional “healing” practices. Make sure you have access to licensed emergency medical facilities in such cases.

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and Surrogacy

• Surrogacy is largely unregulated in Equatorial Guinea with no clear legal protections for foreign intended parents. Surrogacy agreements may not be enforced by Equatorial Guinea courts.
• If you decide to pursue parenthood in Equatorial Guinea via ART with a surrogate, consider hiring a reputable local attorney and be prepared for long and unexpected delays in documenting your child’s birth with local authorities and/or citizenship status. Be aware that individuals who attempt to circumvent local law risk legal consequences.

Water quality and food safety

• In Equatorial Guinea, tap water is not safe to drink.
• In some locations, tap water is not available every day.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• Many restaurants and hotels serve bottled water.
• You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made using tap water.
• Eating uncooked vegetables and fruits can make you sick.
• Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling.
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Equatorial Guinea.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Road conditions and safety

• U.S. citizens should travel in a group of at least 2 vehicles when going to remote areas. This is due to limited phone coverage, rough terrain, and the risk of vehicle breakdowns.
• Remain vigilant for pedestrians and livestock, even on multi-lane highways. Traffic signals and crosswalks are becoming more common but are not always respected by local drivers.
• At night, many motorists do not use headlights and roads are not always lit.
• Emergency services and roadside assistance may be limited or unreliable in remote areas. Travelers should plan ahead and avoid relying on local resources.
• Carry a cell phone for emergencies. But know that coverage can be poor, especially outside urban areas.
• Consider carrying spare tires, extra fuel, and basic tools to address potential vehicle breakdowns. 

Taxis and ride-shares

• The U.S. Embassy prohibits the use of taxis and other forms of public transportation by U.S. citizen employees.
• There have been previous reports of attacks against U.S. citizen women. Small groups pose as taxi drivers and passengers. Victims are typically held for up to 1 hour, threatened at knifepoint, and robbed.
• Take taxis only in groups. Use taxi drivers personally known to you, or avoid taxis altogether, especially in Bata.
• Taxis are inexpensive and readily available. But they are poorly maintained. Taxi drivers drive dangerously or under the influence.
• Taxis will stop to pick up additional passengers and may detour or drop passengers off out of sequence.
• Single travelers, particularly women, should avoid taxis if possible. Only use taxi drivers that you know or that are recommended as being safe and reliable.
• Many taxi drivers do not have a valid driver’s license. Somes may have medical conditions that prevent them from driving safely. Others might not have a public transportation license.
• There have been reports from both Malabo and Bata reporting taxi crimes. Travelers were driven to unfamiliar places against their will. Others were robbed, raped, or assaulted.

Public and commercial transportation

• Public transportation is not reliable or safe. The U.S. Embassy prohibits the use of public transportation by U.S. citizen employees.
• Rental cars are available at the airport through international companies. If you choose to rent a vehicle, be sure to have your registration, passport, and an international driver’s license on you always.
• Military and police roadblocks are common throughout the country. Officials may stop you, ask questions, and ask to see your passport and valid visa.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

Aviation safety oversight

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Equatorial Guinea’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

The U.S. embassy prohibits its employees from using Ceiba airline for travel due to safety concerns.

Maritime travel

Mariners planning travel to Equatorial Guinea should check the following:

• U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Advisories
• MARAD Active Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings

The U.S. Coast Guard determined Equatorial Guinea ports do not have effective anti-terrorism measures. Vessels that arrive in U.S. ports from Equatorial Guinea ports must meet additional U.S. Coast Guard conditions of entry as described in the current Port Security Advisory, International Port Security Program - Port Security Advisory.

Mariners and passengers in Equatorial Guinea ports should be careful and use stronger security measures.

Heavy rainfall and flooding

• The primary rainy season is from May to October but it can vary.
• Landslides are a common consequence of heavy rainfall, particularly in mountainous regions like Bioko Island.

Tropical storms

• Most likely during the Atlantic hurricane season from June to November.
• Storms can disrupt fishing activities and damage coastal infrastructure.

Heatwaves

• Most common during the dry season from December to February but it can vary every year.

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.