Plizio Visual Lab

Roume Island

Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Island
—°3
Roume Island (Guinea)

Weather…

Roume Island (Île de Roume) is a standout destination within the Îles de Los archipelago off the coast of Conakry, celebrated as one of Guinea's most scenic escapes. Geographically situated at the heart of the chain, the island is characterized by its rolling hills, lush tropical canopy, and pristine white sand beaches. Roume is historically linked to Atlantic maritime lore; legend has it that the island served as the primary inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic novel, 'Treasure Island.' The island's village architecture is simple and welcoming, dominated by traditional dwellings and small-scale eco-resorts. Economically, Roume relies on artisanal fishing and high-end, low-impact tourism, catering to those seeking tranquility away from the capital's bustle. The climate is tropical-maritime, with sea breezes providing a pleasant respite from the mainland heat. Ecologically, the island is a vital sanctuary for coastal birds and features some of the best-preserved coral patches in Guinean waters. For visitors, Roume has a near-paradisal atmosphere where motorized vehicles are absent and natural sounds prevail. A trek across the island reveals hidden coves and crystalline waters that are among the cleanest and most inviting in West Africa.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C272727272827262626272828
Rain mm0211390353826943441173533

📋 Practical info

🧭
Getting there
The island is typically reached by taking a small wooden boat or a private motorized pirogue from the bustling port of Conakry. The scenic boat crossing generally takes around thirty to forty-five minutes.
📅
Best season
The optimal time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During these months, the weather is mostly sunny and pleasant, avoiding the heavy downpours of the tropical rainy season.
⛰️
Terrain & paths
The island features beautiful sandy beaches, dense tropical vegetation, and gentle inland hills. Walking paths are mostly unpaved sandy trails that wind through small fishing villages and coastal forested areas.
🎒
What to bring
Lightweight, breathable clothing, effective mosquito repellent, and reliable sun protection are highly recommended. Bring sturdy sandals for beach walking and ensure you have sufficient cash, as ATMs are unavailable.
🅿️
Parking
You will need to leave your vehicle on the mainland in Conakry, usually at guarded lots near the harbor or at your hotel. On the island itself, motorized transport is largely absent, making it a walking destination.
⚠️
Safety
Be mindful of strong ocean currents when swimming off the coast. Ensure you negotiate boat fares clearly before departure and stick to reputable boat operators for the crossing to avoid potential safety issues.
⏱️
Time needed
Visitors commonly spend a full day exploring the beaches and local villages. Many travelers also opt for a relaxing weekend getaway, staying overnight in basic guesthouses to fully appreciate the peaceful vibe.

Geography

Coordinates
9.46000, -13.80000

Facts

  • Roume is widely believed to be the inspiration for Stevenson's 'Treasure Island'.
  • The island is accessible only via a scenic boat ride from the port of Conakry.
  • There are no cars on Roume, preserving its quiet and natural environment.
  • It boasts the most stunning white sand beaches in the entire Los archipelago.
  • Local cuisine is centered around daily catches of barracuda and snapper.
  • Historically, the island served as a base for anti-slavery patrols in the 19th century.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Roume Island (3)

Phare de Tamara📍 landmark

The Phare de Tamara is a historic lighthouse towering over the Îles de Los to guide maritime traffic safely to the mainland.

site🎡 recreation

This beach resort has beachfront lodging and leisure amenities set amidst the tropical island landscape of Roume.

Plage de Room🎡 recreation

Plage de Room is a coastal beach resort set along the sandy shores near Roume Island.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What makes Roume Island special?
It is believed to be the inspiration for the novel 'Treasure Island' and features a very peaceful atmosphere.
Can you go hiking on the island?
Yes, there are small paths through the vegetation leading to secluded bays and viewpoints.
Is there drinking water on the island?
It is recommended to bring enough bottled mineral water from the mainland.
How is the mobile reception?
The reception is often weak and unreliable, which is great for a digital detox.
Are day trips possible?
Yes, many tourists come for a day from Conakry to relax on the pristine beaches.
Roume Island: where is it located?
Roume Island is located in Guinea.
Roume Island: what is there to see?
Highlights include Phare de Tamara, site, Plage de Room.
Roume Island: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Roume Island: why is it worth visiting?
Roume Island (Île de Roume) is a standout destination within the Îles de Los archipelago off the coast of Conakry, celebrated as one of Guinea's most scenic escapes.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
Africa
Explore with Plizio Discover more places in Africa
More places in Guinea →

Nearby cities

History & landmarks

Nature

More places