Best things to do in Malabo

Find out more about those top places in Malabo

Things to do in Malabo - Equatorial Guinea

Malabo: Equatorial Guinea's Capital Where the British Started the Party (and Then Left!) - Your Hilariously Honest Travel Guide to a Central African Surprise!

Welcome, intrepid explorers, to Malabo, the reigning champion and official capital of Equatorial Guinea! This bustling city isn't just the seat of power; it's also the country's buzzing economic and commercial hub. Fun fact alert: Malabo owes its existence to the British, who decided to found it way back in 1827. It wasn't until 1969 that it officially stole the capital crown from Bata. Talk about a late promotion!

Nestled snugly on the northern coast of Bioko Island, this Spanish-speaking nation might not be topping everyone's "must-visit" lists just yet. It's fair to say Equatorial Guinea flies a little under the radar on the global tourism scene. But hold on to your safari hats, folks, because Malabo is still a decent spot to dive headfirst into the authentic charm of a typical Central African nation. Think quirky colonial-style buildings that whisper tales of a bygone era, a tropical climate that's basically a warm hug, some surprisingly cool wildlife encounters, and a vibrant culture just waiting to be discovered.

Our hilarious (and hopefully helpful!) travel guide is here to navigate you through the places to visit and things to do in this intriguing capital. Get ready for some off-the-beaten-path sightseeing and a chance to experience the top attractions of a country that's still finding its tourism groove.

Top Attractions: A Blend of Colonial Echoes and Central African Vibes

Malabo might not have the headline-grabbing monuments of other capitals, but its unique charm lies in its blend of history and local culture. Here are some top attractions to get you started:

The Malabo Cathedral: A Colonial Gem with a Story to Tell

Standing proudly in the city center, the Malabo Cathedral is a striking example of colonial-era architecture. Its impressive facade and intricate details offer a glimpse into the city's past. Take some time to admire its design and soak in the atmosphere of this significant landmark. It's a key stop for any sightseeing tour of Malabo.

The Presidential Palace: Impressive Architecture (Viewed from a Respectful Distance!)

While you likely won't be invited in for tea, the Presidential Palace is an imposing structure that showcases the country's modern governance. Its grand architecture makes for an interesting photo opportunity (from a respectful distance, of course!). It's a significant landmark on the Malabo sightseeing circuit.

The National Museum of Equatorial Guinea: A Dive into Culture and History

For a deeper understanding of Equatorial Guinea's rich cultural heritage and history, a visit to the National Museum is a must. Here, you can explore exhibits showcasing traditional artifacts, artwork, and historical information. It's a fantastic way to enrich your understanding of the country beyond the surface level and one of the essential things to do in Malabo.

The Markets of Malabo: A Sensory Explosion of Local Life

Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Malabo's local markets. Here, you can find everything from fresh produce and local crafts to traditional clothing and bustling street food stalls. It's a fantastic opportunity to interact with locals, practice your bargaining skills (with a smile!), and experience the authentic pulse of the city. This is definitely one of the most engaging things to do for a true taste of Malabo.

Things to Do Beyond the City Center: Exploring Bioko Island's Charms

While Malabo itself has its draws, venturing beyond the city opens up even more places to visit and things to do on Bioko Island:

Explore the Beaches: Bioko Island boasts some lovely tropical beaches where you can relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy the warm waters of the Gulf of Guinea. Look for spots like Arena Blanca for a truly picturesque experience.
Hike to Waterfalls: The island's volcanic terrain means there are opportunities for scenic hikes to beautiful waterfalls cascading through lush vegetation.
Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for the island's diverse wildlife, including monkeys and various bird species. Exploring the island's natural areas offers excellent sightseeing opportunities for nature lovers.
Discover Colonial-Era Towns: Venture to other towns on Bioko Island to discover more of the island's colonial history and unique character.
Experience the Local Culture: Engage with the friendly locals, try traditional Equatorial Guinean cuisine, and perhaps even witness traditional music or dance performances.

So, while Malabo and Equatorial Guinea might not be the first destinations that spring to mind for your next getaway, they offer a unique and authentic Central African experience. With its blend of colonial history, vibrant culture, and the natural beauty of Bioko Island, there are definitely places to visit and things to do that will surprise and delight the adventurous traveler. Our travel guide encourages you to step off the beaten path and discover the hidden charms of Malabo – just be prepared for a different kind of adventure, and maybe brush up on your Spanish!

Catedral de Santa Isabel

Like a rose in the middle of the desert, the Catedral de Santa Isabel beauty stands out effortlessly in relation to the rest of the city. Built in 1916, the Gothic Revival styled cathedral was designed by Llairado Luis Segarra and Antonio Gaudi - the building has two 40 m high towers with three naves. It is the religious center for most of the citizens of Malabo and it is usually packed on service days.
Nuevo Estadio de Malabo

If you are a sport lover head over to the Nuevo Estadio de Malabo, the home of sports in the city. Built in 2007, the 15,250 capacity structure is a multi-purpose stadium but it is mainly used for football. It was one of the host stadiums for the 2012 African cup of Nations and the venue for the Women’s African Football Cup Final in 2008. The best day to catch a game is on weekends.
Moka Wildlife Center

Get away from the hustle and bustle of Malabo with a visit to Moka Wildlife Center. Established in 1998 the field station/Eco-tourist lodge is involved in research, conservation and education of wildlife. It has both flora and fauna with its trees marked with boards giving extra information on its traditional use and benefits. Asides wildlife watching, it also offers hiking trails for visitors.
Malabo International Hip Hop Festival

One of the most popular events that occurs in Malabo, the annual event usually comes up from late November to early December featuring stars from different parts of the world including local artists as well. The festival also has a bit of educational aspect with several workshops opened to newcomers in the Music Industry.
Moca Valley

For lovers of outdoors, Moka Valley is a dream destination. Home to the people of the Buki tribe - the rugged highlands appear daunting at first sight and might even overwhelm the most adventurous of persons. The best way to see all what the Moca Valley, still remains by hiking – while enjoying its beautiful flora presence. Its popular attractions include the Lake Loreta, Lake Biao and the ever impressive Cascades of Moca.
La Casa Verde

Asides the Cathedral de Santa Isabel, this is the most famous building in Malabo. Built in the mid-1800, it is located at the center of the city. Popularly called the Green House the building recently underwent some restorations and now it is one of Malabo’s main business centers.