Geography

The Republic of Equatorial Guinea is located in west central Africa. Bioko Island lies about 40 km (25 mi) from Cameroon, whilst Annobón Island lies about 595 km (370 mi) southwest of Bioko Island. The larger continental region of Rio Muni lies between Cameroon and Gabon on the mainland. Contrary to its name, no part of the Equatorial Guinea lies on the equator. Along with Denmark it is one of two countries in the world with its mainland on a continent and its capital city on an island.

Bioko Island

Bioko Island, called Fernando Po until the 1970s, is the largest island in the Gulf of Guinea - 2,017 sq km (780 sq mi). It is shaped like a boot, with two large volcanic formations separated by a valley that bisects the island at its narrowest point. The 195 km (120 mi) coastline is steep and rugged in the south but lower and more accessible in the north, with excellent harbours at Malabo and Luba, and several scenic beaches between those towns.

Annobon Island

Named for its discovery on New Year's Day 1472, this small volcanic island covers 18 sq km (7 sq mi). The coastline is abrupt except in the north; the principal volcanic cone contains a small lake. The climate is tropical: heavy rainfall, high humidity and frequent seasonal changes with violent windstorms. Most of the estimated 1,900 inhabitants are fisherman specializing in traditional, small-scale tuna fishing and whaling.

Rio Muni

On the continent, Rio Muni covers 26,003 sq km (10,040 sq mi). The coastal plain gives way to a succession of valleys separated by low hills and spurs of the Crystal Mountains. The Rio Benito (Mbini) which divides Rio Muni in half, is un-navigable except for a 20 km stretch at its estuary. Temperatures and humidity in Rio Muni are generally lower than on Bioko Island.