【Guinea】Travel Advice and Advisories for Guinea

A coup d’état took place in Guinea on September 5, 2021. Although the situation in Conakry is currently calm, it is evolving and could deteriorate rapidly.

If you are in Guinea:
– exercise caution;
– monitor local media regularly to stay informed of the evolving situation.

Since May 2022, Guinean authorities have consistently banned demonstrations. On several occasions, riot police have used tear gas and warning shots to disperse crowds of protesters.

Demonstrations occur occasionally. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can suddenly turn violent. They can also greatly disrupt traffic and public transportation. Telecommunications and internet access may be disrupted. Authorities may impose curfews and restrict movement without notice.

– Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place.
– Follow the instructions of local authorities.
– Monitor local media regularly to stay informed of ongoing demonstrations.

Instability in neighboring countries and armed banditry prevalent in West Africa pose a risk in Guinea. Exercise a high degree of caution in the border regions with Côte d’Ivoire, Liberia, Mali, and Sierra Leone, as cross-border military and rebel activity makes these areas dangerous.

There could be a flare-up of inter-ethnic violence in the city of N’Zérékoré and its surroundings, in Forest Guinea.

Clashes are also observed in industrial cities like Fria, where difficulties in accessing raw materials and tensions caused by work stoppages can jeopardize security.

Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching occur, particularly in markets (Madina, Niger, and Taouyah), and are often perpetrated by children.

– Always keep your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, in a safe place.
– Avoid displaying signs of wealth.
– Be vigilant, especially at night.

Violent crime is frequent, particularly in Conakry, but also in some rural areas, notably Kankan. Armed robberies, carjackings, assaults, muggings, and break-ins occur in Conakry and the Kindia region. These violent crimes are often committed by men in uniform.

The risk of armed robbery and assault increases after dark.

Foreigners are often victims of crime, especially at airports.

– Exercise caution if traveling by car in and around Conakry.
– Exercise caution at airports and hotels, as criminals may offer unsolicited assistance and then steal your luggage, purse, or wallet.
– Exercise caution during travel to and from the international airport, as violent and opportunistic crimes are perpetrated against foreigners.
– Make arrangements to arrive at the airport during daylight hours and be met by reliable persons.
– When in a vehicle, always lock the doors and keep the windows up.

In the event of a strike, stores may close with little notice for long periods. Ensure you have enough food, water, and essential items to last three to four days.

There is a terrorist threat. The following locations could be targeted:
– government buildings, including schools;
– places of worship;
– airports, as well as other transportation hubs and networks;
– public places such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, cafes, shopping centers, markets, hotels, and other locations frequented by foreigners.

Always be vigilant when in public places.