The U.S. Department of State has renewed its Travel Advisory for Equatorial Guinea as of October 7, 2025. The advisory level remains unchanged, but an “Other” risk indicator has been added and the summary has been updated.
The Department advises travelers to exercise increased caution in Equatorial Guinea due to risks related to crime, health concerns, and the possibility of arbitrary enforcement of local laws. According to the advisory, petty crime is common throughout the country and local police may not have sufficient resources to respond effectively even to serious incidents.
Medical services in Equatorial Guinea are described as limited. There are no adequate trauma or ambulance services available, which means that even minor health issues could require medical evacuation at the traveler’s expense. Travelers are encouraged to bring enough prescription medication for their entire stay and ensure they have medical or travel insurance that covers evacuation.
The advisory also notes that travelers may face arbitrary enforcement of local laws, which can result in harassment or detention. It warns that some travelers have been detained for several weeks or longer and that the U.S. Embassy cannot guarantee their release.
The State Department provides several recommendations for those who choose to travel to Equatorial Guinea. These include reviewing information on crime abroad and what to do if you become a victim; being prepared for sudden border closures; always carrying a passport and valid visa; not resisting robbery attempts; using caution at night; keeping a low profile; staying alert in tourist areas and at banks or ATMs; and sharing your itinerary with a family member or friend.
Travelers are also advised to check with their doctor about necessary vaccines before traveling and to bring enough over-the-counter and prescription medicines for the entire trip. Enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is recommended so that travelers can receive important updates from the U.S. embassy or consulate.
For more information on travel guidance and security reports for Equatorial Guinea, as well as the latest health updates, travelers are directed to consult official resources including the U.S. Embassy Malabo website (https://gq.usembassy.gov/embassy/malabo/) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Contact details for assistance include U.S. Embassy Malabo at +(240) 333-095-741 or +(240) 555-516-008 (after hours), MalaboConsular@state.gov, and the State Department – Consular Affairs at 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444.
"Some travelers have been arbitrarily detained for several weeks or more. The Embassy cannot guarantee your release."
"Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency."
"Medical services in Equatorial Guinea are limited. There are no adequate trauma or ambulance services. Even minor health issues may require medical evacuation at the traveler’s expense. Be sure to bring enough prescription medications to last the entire duration of your trip. Make sure you have medical or travel insurance that includes medical evacuation."
"Petty crime is common throughout the country. Local police may lack the resources to respond effectively to reports of crime, even serious crime."
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