Equatorial Guinea
Overview
Key Facts
Map
Top Things To Do
Top Things To See
Going Out
Business
Getting There
Getting Around
Communications
Travel Advice
Passport/Visa
Health
Climate
Money
Duty Free
Contact Addresses

Overview

Overview

Equatorial Guinea is a country of luscious vegetation and beautiful scenery, including tropical forests and snow-capped volcanoes. The capital, Malabo, is a rather rundown but attractive town, with pleasant Spanish colonial architecture, a striking volcanic setting and a lively market. The white-sand beaches around the islands are stunning. No wonder the country was first of all named 'Formosa', meaning 'beautiful', by the Portuguese.

The area was first colonised by the Portuguese in the late 15th century and handed over to the Spanish in 1788. Self-government was granted in 1959, followed by full independence in 1968.

Its economy has expanded rapidly following the discovery of oil and gas deposits in the Gulf of Guinea, though little of this wealth has trickled down to the general population. The government has been described by a variety of human rights organisations as among the worst abusers of human rights in Africa.

© 2006 Columbus Travel Publishing Ltd.  Disclaimer
Search
IX-concierge
Flights
Hotels
Events
Special Interest
Transport
Travel Advice
Books & Goods
Guides & Maps
About IXeo
International sites:
Currency:
Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy | About IXeo | Licenses & Partners | Sitemap | All Sitemaps
Hotel Types & Styles | Flight Search | Exclusive Beach Hideaways | Heritage | Golf | Ski | Dive | Safari