Car Rental in Guinea-Bissau - Driving Guide & Best Rates

Renting a car in Guinea-Bissau offers significant advantages for tourists wanting to explore beyond Bissau, particularly for visiting the Bijagós Archipelago access points, Cacheu, or rural areas where public transport is limited or non-existent. The country drives on the right side of the road. However, road conditions present considerable challenges - paved roads are primarily limited to main routes connecting major towns, while secondary roads are often unpaved and can become difficult or impassable during the rainy season (June-October). In Bissau itself, renting a car is generally unnecessary due to the city's compact size and availability of taxis. Car rental is most practical for travelers planning countryside exploration, multi-day road trips, or needing schedule flexibility that public transport cannot provide. It's not recommended for those staying primarily in urban areas or uncomfortable with challenging driving conditions including poorly maintained roads, limited signage, and occasional livestock on roadways. Tourists should be prepared for basic road infrastructure outside main routes and consider hiring a local driver if unfamiliar with local conditions. A 4x4 vehicle is often advisable for venturing beyond paved roads. Check current rental availability and requirements through booking services, as options may be limited compared to more developed tourist destinations.

International Driving Permit

Information not available for Guinea-Bissau specific requirements. Generally recommended to obtain an IDP from your home country before travel to West African countries.

Minimum Age

Specific age requirements for Guinea-Bissau are not available. Rental agencies typically require drivers to be 21-25 years old, though this varies by company.

Valid Driver's License

A valid driver's license from your home country is required. Check with rental agencies regarding acceptance of foreign licenses in Guinea-Bissau.

Insurance Coverage

Basic insurance is typically mandatory. Specific requirements for Guinea-Bissau are not available - verify coverage options with rental agencies.

Credit Card for Deposit

Rental agencies generally require a credit card for security deposits. Specific policies for Guinea-Bissau operators are not available.

Local Driving Conditions Knowledge

Familiarize yourself with local traffic laws and road conditions. Specific regulations for Guinea-Bissau should be verified with local authorities or rental agencies.

Rent from established agencies at Osvaldo Vieira International Airport in Bissau for better vehicle selection and support, though availability is limited - book well in advance and confirm your reservation before arrival as the car rental market is underdeveloped.

Thoroughly inspect the vehicle before driving off, documenting all existing damage with photos and checking spare tire, jack, and emergency equipment, as road conditions in Guinea-Bissau can be challenging with many unpaved routes outside the capital.

Download offline GPS maps before arrival as mobile data coverage is unreliable outside Bissau, and road signage is limited - consider hiring a local guide for trips outside the capital or ask your rental agency for route guidance.

Plan fuel stops carefully as gas stations are scarce outside major towns and may have irregular supply - fill up whenever possible in Bissau and carry extra fuel for longer journeys into rural areas.

Allow extra time for vehicle return and inspection, keep all fuel receipts, and confirm return procedures with your agency as airport facilities are basic - consider returning during business hours to ensure staff availability for checkout.

Road conditions in Guinea-Bissau are generally poor, with many unpaved roads that become impassable during the rainy season (June-October), and potholes are common even on main routes - a 4WD vehicle is highly recommended outside Bissau.

Police and military checkpoints are frequent throughout the country, so always carry your passport, driver's license, vehicle registration, and insurance documents, and remain patient and courteous during stops.

Traffic rules are loosely followed with minimal lane discipline, unexpected stops, and pedestrians, livestock, and cyclists sharing roads unpredictably - drive defensively and avoid traveling after dark when roads are unlit and hazards are difficult to see.

During the rainy season, flooding can close roads without warning and ferries may be unreliable or suspended, so check current road conditions before traveling and allow extra time for journeys outside the capital.