Bissau in December
December weather, activities, events & insider tips
December Weather in Bissau
Is December Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect temperature drop from November - evening temperatures of 19°C (66°F) make outdoor dining and walking comfortable after 6pm
- Mango season begins in December - local Bijagós mangoes are at their peak sweetness and cost 50% less than imported fruit
- Harmattan winds from the Sahara clear humidity and dust, creating exceptional visibility for photography across the Guineabissau
- Tourist numbers are minimal - you'll have major sites like Fortaleza de São José da Amura essentially to yourself, with no crowds at sunrise or sunset
Considerations
- Afternoon humidity spikes to 85% between 1-4pm, making midday activities uncomfortable - most locals take extended lunch breaks indoors during this period
- Ferry schedules to outer Bijagós islands become unpredictable due to seasonal weather patterns - expect 2-3 hour delays and bring entertainment
- Many local restaurants reduce hours during Ramadan preparation period, with some closing entirely between 2-5pm for staff rest
Best Activities in December
Bijagós Archipelago Island Hopping
December offers the calmest seas of the year for visiting the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve islands. Water visibility reaches 15-20m (49-66 ft) for snorkeling, and nesting sea turtles are active on Poilão Island. Morning departures at 7am avoid afternoon wind buildup.
Fortaleza Historical Walking Tours
December's lower humidity makes the 2km (1.2 mile) fortress walk comfortable in early morning or late afternoon. Portuguese colonial architecture photography is excellent with December's clear Harmattan-influenced light. Guided tours reveal hidden slave trade tunnels not marked for independent visitors.
Cashew Plantation Cultural Experiences
December marks cashew flower blooming season - plantations are visually impressive and culturally significant. Local Balanta communities demonstrate traditional harvesting preparation techniques. Temperature drops make the 5km (3.1 mile) plantation walks feasible by 4pm.
Rio Geba Mangrove Kayaking
December's reduced rainfall creates ideal conditions for exploring tributary channels that are too shallow other months. Migratory bird populations peak, with over 200 species including European visitors. Morning sessions (6-10am) offer glassy water conditions and active wildlife.
Traditional Balanta Village Homestays
December harvest celebrations offer authentic cultural immersion opportunities. Cooler evening temperatures make traditional music and dance performances more comfortable for visitors. Villages like Biombo host monthly community festivals throughout December.
Artisan Market and Craft Workshops
December's comfortable evening temperatures extend market hours until 8pm daily. Local craftsmen demonstrate traditional weaving, woodcarving, and metalwork techniques. End-of-year inventory clearances offer 30-40% discounts on authentic pieces before January price increases.
December Events & Festivals
Bijagós Cultural Festival
Annual celebration of traditional island culture featuring mask dancing, traditional boat races, and ceremonial fishing demonstrations. Local communities from all inhabited islands participate in this UNESCO-supported event showcasing intangible cultural heritage.
Cashew Blossom Ceremonies
Rural communities hold blessing ceremonies for the coming cashew season. Visitors can observe traditional agricultural rituals, sample local palm wine, and participate in community dances. Each village celebrates on different dates throughout the month.