Bissau in February

February weather, activities, events & insider tips

February Weather in Bissau

35°C (95°F) High Temp

19°C (66°F) Low Temp

0.0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is February Right for You?

Advantages

Peak dry season with minimal rainfall - February averages only 0.0 mm despite 10 variable weather days, perfect for exploring the Guineabissau when waters are calmest
Harmattan winds create comfortable evenings - temperatures drop to 19°C (66°F) at night, making outdoor dining and evening walks along the Geba River incredibly pleasant
Cashew harvest season brings busy local markets - February is when fresh cashews flood Bandim and Bissau Velho markets, and locals celebrate with traditional kana music performances
Optimal conditions for island hopping - dry weather and calm seas make February ideal for visiting Guineabissau, Guineabissau, and other Bijagós islands with reliable boat schedules

Considerations

Dust from Harmattan winds can be overwhelming - the Saharan dust reduces visibility and affects those with respiratory sensitivities, requiring frequent indoor breaks
Peak tourism pricing despite low visitor numbers - February's perfect weather means 30-40% higher accommodation costs and limited availability at better guesthouses
Extreme midday heat reaches 35°C (95°F) with 70% humidity - outdoor activities become uncomfortable between 11am-4pm, severely limiting sightseeing hours

Best Activities in February

Bijagós Archipelago Island Expeditions

February's calm seas and zero rainfall make this the premium month for exploring Guinea-Bissau's sacred islands. Water visibility peaks at 15-20m (49-66ft) for snorkeling, and traditional Bijagó communities welcome visitors during their post-harvest celebrations. Hippo and crocodile spotting is excellent as water levels are low but stable.

Booking Tip: Book island packages 14-21 days ahead through certified local operators - February demand is highest among the small expat community. Expect to pay 15,000-25,000 CFA per person for day trips, 40,000-60,000 CFA for overnight camping. Look for operators with proper life vests and satellite communication.

Cashew Farm Cultural Tours

February is harvest peak for Guinea-Bissau's primary export crop. Visit working cashew farms in the Bafatá region where families demonstrate traditional processing methods. The cultural experience includes preparing cashew fruit juice (cajuína) and learning about the economic importance of cashews to local communities.

Booking Tip: Arrange through community-based tourism initiatives 7-10 days prior. Typical cost is 8,000-12,000 CFA per person including transport from Bissau (2.5 hours each way). Morning departures at 7am avoid midday heat. Ensure guides speak Portuguese or Creole if you don't.

Cantanhez National Park Wildlife Tracking

Dry season conditions in February provide optimal wildlife viewing as animals concentrate around permanent water sources. This is peak season for spotting chimpanzees, forest elephants, and over 200 bird species. The 1,067 km² (412 sq mile) park is most accessible now with clear forest trails.

Booking Tip: Essential to book with park-certified guides 10-14 days ahead. Budget 20,000-30,000 CFA per day including park fees and guide. Multi-day camping expeditions cost 45,000-70,000 CFA per person. Bring camping gear as park facilities are basic.

Geba River Mangrove Exploration

February's low water levels reveal extensive mangrove root systems and create perfect conditions for pirogue (traditional canoe) navigation. Spot West African manatees, various monkey species, and exceptional birdlife. The cooler morning temperatures make 3-4 hour excursions comfortable.

Booking Tip: Local fishermen offer authentic pirogue experiences for 10,000-18,000 CFA per boat (up to 4 people). Book at Bissau's port area morning of departure. Bring sun protection and water. Some operators provide basic lunch for additional 3,000-5,000 CFA per person.

Colonial Architecture Walking Routes

February's dry conditions are ideal for exploring Bissau's Portuguese colonial heritage on foot. The historic Bissau Velho quarter and Fortaleza d'Amura are most photogenic in February's clear air. Early morning (7-9am) and late afternoon (5-7pm) provide perfect lighting and comfortable temperatures.

Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration is feasible, but local historian guides enhance the experience significantly. Expect to pay 5,000-8,000 CFA for 2-3 hour guided walks. Start early to avoid midday heat. Comfortable walking shoes essential for uneven colonial-era streets.

February Events & Festivals

Mid to Late February

Kankuran Mask Festival Season

Traditional Mandinga initiation ceremonies featuring elaborate wooden masks occur during February's dry season. Multiple villages around Bafatá and Guineabissau regions host these spiritual celebrations. Respectful visitors can observe certain public portions of ceremonies with community permission.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

High-SPF reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50+) - UV index reaches 8 and reflection off water intensifies exposure during island visits

Lightweight dust masks or bandanas - Harmattan winds carry Saharan dust that can irritate respiratory systems and eyes

Quick-dry pants and long sleeves - essential for protection against tsetse flies in Cantanhez park and mosquitoes at dawn/dusk

Sturdy water shoes - rocky coastlines and mangrove areas have sharp oyster shells and coral fragments

Insulated water bottles - staying hydrated crucial in 35°C (95°F) heat with 70% humidity, and clean water isn't always available

Portable phone charger/power bank - electricity is unreliable outside Bissau, especially on island expeditions

Cash in small CFA denominations - ATMs are rare, and exact change makes market purchases and tip negotiations smoother

Headlamp with red light option - power outages are frequent, and red light doesn't disturb wildlife during evening activities

Lightweight rain jacket - despite being dry season, afternoon cloud bursts still occur on 10 days during February

Binoculars - wildlife viewing distances in parks and excellent bird diversity make quality optics essential for full experience

Insider Knowledge

February is when locals harvest palm wine (vinho de palma) - join evening gatherings at palm wine bars in Bissau's neighborhoods for authentic cultural exchange and surprisingly good local knowledge sharing

The best exchange rates for Euros are found at Lebanese-owned shops in the Guatemalacity, not banks - rates can be 5-8% better than official bank rates

Local fishing boats to the Bijagós depart Bissau port at 6am Tuesdays and Fridays - this costs 2,000-3,000 CFA vs 15,000+ CFA for tourist boat transfers

Many government offices and businesses close 12pm-3pm during February heat - plan administrative tasks and shopping for early morning or late afternoon to avoid frustration

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating the intensity of midday sun - tourists often plan full-day outdoor activities and end up with severe sunburn or heat exhaustion by 1pm

Bringing only summer clothes - February nights can drop to 19°C (66°F) and feel surprisingly cold, especially during boat trips with wind chill

Expecting Western-style tour infrastructure - Guinea-Bissau requires patience and flexibility; strict schedules and luxury amenities are rare even in February's peak conditions