Malabo

Overview

Malabo sits on the north coast of Bioko, a volcanic island in the Gulf of Guinea, and is one of Africa's least visited capitals. Its small colonial centre of Spanish-era buildings and a twin-towered cathedral faces a deep bay.

Tourism is very limited and visas can be hard to get, so plan well ahead. The reward is a lush island of rainforest, black-sand beaches and nesting turtles that few outsiders ever see.

Things to see

• 

  Malabo Cathedral

  A neo-Gothic cathedral with two spires, the landmark of the old town.

• 

  Plaza de la Independencia

  The main square in the colonial centre, overlooked by government buildings and the cathedral.

• Colonial old town

  A compact grid of Spanish colonial houses and shops near the bay, best seen on a slow walk.

• 

  Pico Basilé

  The island's highest peak, a volcano rising steeply behind the city in cloud forest.

Things to do

• Turtle nesting at Ureca

  In the dry season, sea turtles come ashore to nest on the remote beaches of the south coast.

• 

  Highlands of Moka

  A cool upland village area in the south of the island, with crater lakes and forest.

• 

  Day trip to Luba

  A quiet town on a bay in the south-west, with beaches nearby.

Where to stay

• Old town

  Close to the cathedral, markets and restaurants.

  Hotels in Old town

• Malabo II

  A newer district with larger hotels and conference centres.

  Hotels in Malabo II

Getting around

Taxis are the easiest way around town. Trips around the island are best arranged with a local guide and driver.

The airport is a few kilometres west of the city, around 15 minutes by taxi.

When to go

December to February is the driest time and the turtle nesting season. The rest of the year is very wet, especially on the south of the island.

Plan your trip to Malabo

• HotelsBooking.com
• Tours and ticketsGetYourGuide

Guide last checked October 2026. Opening times and prices change, so check before you go.

More city guides for Equatorial Guinea

• Bata

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