The country is made up of two provinces - Bioko Island lies 40km (25mi) off the coast of Cameroon in the Bight of Biafra, and Rio Muni, the much larger area, lies on the mainland coast between Cameroon to the north and Gabon to the south and east.

Equatorial Guinea is thick with vegetation. Being an extinct volcano, Bioko has extremely rich soil, encouraging the rapid growth of trees and vines. Farmers spend much of their time keeping the ever-encroaching vines from overwhelming their cocoa plantations. Rio Muni, having been largely bypassed by the 20th century, is equally thick with vegetation and boasts an abundance of wildlife, including elephants, lions and gazelle.

Equatorial Guinea is a rainy, tropical country. On Bioko Island the rainy season is from July through to January, while on the mainland, rainfall is lighter and peaks from April to May and from October to December.

While Equatorial Guinea is not the cheapest place in Africa, it's also not the hottest or sandiest, which makes it quite attractive. And although those on a tight budget can stay put in the capital of Malabo for under US$15 a day, you can live a lot more comfortably in a hotel, and eat better food, for only US$10 more. If it's a top-end lifestyle you're seeking, look elsewhere. It's hard enough locating an expensive restaurant, let alone finding a top hotel to stay at. Given that the two provinces of Equatorial Guinea are split by a couple of hundred kilometres (over 125mi) of water, hire cars are a pointless option. They're expensive on Bioko and non-existant in Rio Muni. Travel by foot, taxi, truck and minibus are the best options.

There is only one bank in Malabo and one in Bata with currency exchange facilities. Exchange from French francs is easy, however other currencies occasionally provide difficulties. Always keep your purchase receipt - unlike most other African countries, it's routinely requested in Equatorial Guinea.

Tipping is a difficult issue throughout Africa. Basically, if you look like a hitchhiker, take buses or shared taxis and eat at African restaurants, you won't be expected to tip. If you're clean-cut, you'll look rich and should tip 10% in restaurants, hotels and taxis. The same rule applies whether you're a westerner or a wealthy African.

Rain is the main factor to consider when travelling in Equatorial Guinea. Dirt roads become extremely muddy, and you could find yourself stranded for some time. To avoid the wet season, the best time to travel in Equatorial Guinea is between November and April.