Guinea’s landscape is spectacular featuring dry forests and rainforests, and an array of beautiful wildlife. Although, the country is yet to become a prominent tourist destination, unlike other African countries. If you’re planning a trip to Guinea, take a look at some important info we’re sharing with you.
- Expat Clubs
- Schools
- Local News Sources
- Country Information
- Resident and Work visa information
- How to get a driving license
- Where to live and about the accomodation types
- Healthcare information including Hospitals and Insurance
Expat Clubs
There are no expat meet up clubs as such in Guinea and most expats communicate online through websites such as ExpatWoman.com.
International Schools
International School of Conakry
The American International School of Conakry is a private, coeducational school offering an educational program from pre-kindergarten through grade 12 for children from expatriate and host country families.
Curriculum: American
Address: MATAM, LIDO, CORNICHE SUD, CONAKRY, REPUBLIC OF GUINEA
Tel: +224 622 66 15 35, +224 622 66 29 45, +224 622 66 29 46
Website: www.iscguinea.org
The English Speaking Community School of Guinea
The English Speaking Community School of Guinea (ESCS), is a non-profit, private, co-educational day and boarding school, located at Kaporo Beach Road, in a quiet and secure residential area. ESCS, founded in September 2005, offers a challenging and comprehensive curriculum taught in English to students from multicultural backgrounds. It serves parents who wish to have their children pursue a primary and/or secondary education in English, in a stimulating and caring environment.
Website: esc sguinea.webs.com
Local News in English
allAfrica – Guinea
AllAfrica publishes around 2,000 reports a day from more than 130 news organizations and over 200 other institutions and individuals, representing a diversity of positions on every topic. They publish news and views ranging from vigorous opponents of governments to government publications and spokespersons.
Website: allafrica.com/guinea
Country Information
Location: Africa
Capital City: Conakry
Other Important Cities:
Currency: Guinean Franc
Language: French
Calling Code: +224
Internet TLD: .gn
Electricity: The country runs on 220V 50Hz.
Emergency Numbers: 112
Country Information
en.wikipedia.org
Embassy Information
www.embassypages.com/guinea
Residents Visa and Work Permit information
Citizens from most countries including the US, UK and the EU are required to have a visa before entering Guinea. Expats are advised to consult with the Guinean embassy or consulate in their home or host country for their eligibility. Visa applications are processed in embassies and consulate.
Documents Required (but not limited to)
- A valid passport
- Completed 2 Application forms (see below);
- 2 Pictures (Passport size);
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate;
- A letter stating the purpose of your trip to Guinea;
- Visa Fees
- Rush visa for the same day or next days is charged at twice the regular fee;
- A self-stamped addressed envelope to return your passport;
- From the Embassy of Guinea, Washington D.C. guineaembassyusa.com/visa-citizen-services/visa/
Accommodation
It is highly advised to book accommodations before travelling and obtain a written or printed confirmation. Most of the hotels in the capital, Conakry are cheaper but adequate with basic facilities. There are also a small number expensive hotels. Outside the capital, accommodations can be found in the areas of Dalaba, Labe, and Kindia.
Driving License
An international driving license is recommended to drive legally in Guinea. However, driving in the country will not be easy as the road infrastructures are poorly maintained. Road hazards such as livestock and pedestrians are prevalent. Also during rainy seasons the roads become treacherous.
Healthcare
Medical facilities are very limited and below Western standards. Most hospitals are ill-equipped. There are no ambulance or rescue services available. Cash payments are to be expected. Expats are advised to make sure their health insurance covers or reimburses any costs incurred especially treatments that require medical evacuation or repatriation.
Insurance Companies
Globalsurance
Globalsurance is a one-stop insurance brokerage service provider for you when travelling to Guinea. The International Health Insurance plans they offer can meet your individual needs, including benefits such as dental, maternity, inpatient, outpatient, specialist consultations, and many others. They offer a large variety of international health insurance plans as well as travellers insurance plans.
Address: Unit 1-11, 35th floor, One Hung To Road, Kwun Tong, Hong Kong
Tel: +852 3113 1331
Fax: +852 3113 2332
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.globalsurance.org/
Cigna Global Health Options
Cigna provides international insurance coverage for expats. International medical evacuation is also available in cases where emergency treatment must be sought outside of the host country.
Website: www.cignaglobal.com
Hospitals
Centre Hospitalier Universitaire
Address: Deen, Conakry, Guinea
Tel: +224 442 020
Clinique Ambroise Pare – Conakry
Address: BP 1042, Conakry, Guinea
Tel: +224 63 35 10 10, +224 63 40 10 40
Fax: +224 63 40 90 55