Conakry
Visited in December 2018
At a glance
- Country
- Guinea
- Region
- Conakry Region
- Population
- 1.7 million
- Best time to go
- November to April
- Main airport
- Conakry International (CKY)
- Coordinates
- 9.51°N, 13.72°W
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Overview
Guinea's capital stretches along a narrow peninsula into the Atlantic, from the old administrative centre of Kaloum at its tip to sprawling suburbs inland. It is not a city built for tourism, but it has an easy-going energy and a proud musical tradition.
The pleasures are simple: grilled fish by the sea, the noise of the markets, and a boat out to the islands offshore. Traffic along the single main artery can be slow, so plan one area per day.
Things to see
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Photo: Jeff Attaway from Abuja, Nigeria, CC BY 2.0 Grand Mosque of Conakry
One of the largest mosques in West Africa, with tall minarets rising above the gardens near the Camayenne district.
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Photo: Thie Abdoul, CC BY-SA 4.0 Marché Madina
A sprawling market where you can find anything from bright wax-print cloth to spices, sandals and electronics.
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Photo: Yamen, CC BY 4.0 National Museum
A small museum in Boulbinet with masks, statues and musical instruments from Guinea's many cultures.
Tickets and tours -
Photo: Cnes - Spot Image, CC BY-SA 3.0 Îles de Los
A cluster of green islands a short boat ride offshore, with sandy coves and fishing villages.
Things to do
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Photo: Duprat Jean Noel (j@hnow), CC BY-SA 1.0 Boat trip to Roume island
Spend a day swimming and eating fresh fish on one of the Îles de Los, away from the city traffic.
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Photo: Aboubacarkhoraa, CC BY-SA 4.0 Live music
Guinea has a rich griot and big-band heritage; ask locally where musicians are playing at the weekend.
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Photo: Aboubacarkhoraa, CC BY-SA 4.0 Day trip to the Voile de la Mariée
A tall waterfall near Kindia, inland from the capital, where water fans out over the rock like a bridal veil.
Where to stay
Kaloum
The old centre on the peninsula's tip, close to ministries, the port and the ferry to the islands.
Hotels in KaloumKipé and Ratoma
Newer coastal suburbs with business hotels, restaurants and sea views.
Hotels in Kipé and Ratoma
Getting around
Taxis are the practical option for visitors; agree the fare before you get in or arrange a driver through your hotel. Allow plenty of time for traffic.
The airport lies inland at Gbessia, typically 30 minutes to an hour by car to Kaloum depending on traffic.
When to go
The dry season from November to April is the time to come. Conakry is one of the wettest capitals in the world, and July and August bring torrential rain.
Plan your trip to Conakry
- HotelsBooking.com
- Tours and ticketsGetYourGuide
- FlightsKiwi.com
- Attraction ticketsTiqets
- Airport parking, lounges and transfersHoliday Extras
- Car hireAuto Europe
- Mobile data (eSIM)AiraloCode DAN9406 for money off
- GuidebooksAmazon
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Guide last checked October 2026. Opening times and prices change, so check before you go.