Galinhas Island

Galinhas Island, whose name means 'Chicken Island,' is located in the central portion of the Bijagós Archipelago, offering a compelling blend of ecological diversity and a storied past. Geographically, the island features a gentle relief dominated by expansive palm savannas and dense mangrove forests. These mangroves are essential for coastal protection and serve as a vital nursery for numerous crustaceans and juvenile fish. The island's interior contains remnants of tropical dry forests, providing shelter for a wide array of songbirds and reptiles. Galinhas' coastline is characterized by alternating sandy stretches and laterite formations that reveal extensive tide pools during low tide. Ecologically, the island acts as a significant stepping stone for migratory species within the archipelago. Although Galinhas historically functioned as a penal colony, nature has reclaimed much of the island's territory. Today, Galinhas is a place of tranquility where traditional Bijagó small-scale farming practices prevail, minimizing the environmental footprint. The waters surrounding the island are renowned for their abundance of fish, highlighting Galinhas' importance to local food security.

Nearby cities

Bolama

Bolama is the former capital of Portuguese Guinea, located on the island of the same name in the Bijagós Archipelago.

Bubaque

Bubaque is the main town in the Bijagós Islands and a center for tourism.

Abu

Abu is a small village in the northern Bijagós Islands.

Rubane Island

A breathtaking island known for exclusive eco-lodges, white sand beaches, and world-class sport fishing.

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Soga Island

A charming island near Bubaque, known for its palm oil plantations and warm hospitality.

Maio Island

A remote island on the eastern edge, a paradise for sea turtles and eco-researchers.

Galinhas Island

An island rich in history with colonial ruins and picturesque villages, set in tropical beauty.

Formosa

Formosa is one of the largest islands in the Bijagós Archipelago with several small settlements.

Eticoga

Eticoga is the largest settlement on Orango Island in the Bijagós Archipelago.

Bruce Beach

Arguably the most beautiful beach in Guinea-Bissau on Bubaque Island, famous for its white sand and relaxed atmosphere.

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Canhabaque Island

One of the most traditional islands of the Bijagós, known for its untouched culture and dense forests.

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Orangozinho Island

A peaceful island within the Orango National Park, famous for flamingos and pristine mangroves.

Orango Island

A national park paradise famous for rare saltwater hippos and a unique matriarchal culture.

João Vieira Island

An untouched paradise in the Bijagós Archipelago, famous for its marine national park and rare nesting sea turtles.

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Carache Island

A wild and pristine island in the northern Bijagós Archipelago, known for its dense forests and traditional culture.

History & landmarks

Bubaque Lighthouse

A prominent lighthouse on Bubaque Island, serving as an important navigation point for vessels in the Bijagós Archipelago.

More places

Galinhas Forest

Galinhas Island hosts a dense mixed vegetation of palms and tropical deciduous trees.

Soga Island

Soga is an inhabited island near Bubaque.

Formosa Island

Formosa is one of the larger islands of the Bijagós Archipelago.

Rubane Island

Located opposite Bubaque, Rubane is known for its exclusive eco-resorts and pristine nature.

Bubaque Island

Bubaque is the administrative center of the Bijagós Archipelago and one of the most accessible islands.

Bubaque Coastal Rocks

The coastline of Bubaque features interesting laterite rock formations that form wide plateaus during low tide.

Rubane Forest

The dense forest of Rubane Island is a prime example of the pristine vegetation of the Bijagós Islands.

Bubaque Beach Play Area

Safe and shallow beach sections on Bubaque Island, ideal for children to play and swim.