Introduction
Oil-rich Equatorial Guinea isn't the easiest African country to access or travel around, although those that look for adventure holidays here will discover tropical forests and snow-capped volcanoes to admire.
The capital Malabo, on Bioko Island, has grown up around the oil-industry. The wealth is poorly distributed and there's a wide discrepancy between those with and without money. The city has a genuine feel of the African tropics and is characterized by open markets, colourful plazas and pulsing bars and nightclubs.
Luba, also on Bioko Island, is the gateway to the natural attractions here, including empty beaches such as Arena Blanca, traditional fishing villages and some good hiking trails.
On the mainland, Bata is an attractive colonial town undergoing regeneration on the back of the oil business. To the north and south of the city lie some superb beaches that are ideal for relaxing and swimming. If you're after activity, hike in the forests of the Monte Alen National Park and look for gorillas, elephants and other animals in this lush reserve.
