Guinea‑Bissau is a small West African country known for its vibrant cultural heritage, stunning coastal landscapes, and the unique Bijagós Archipelago—a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve that attracts eco‐tourists and adventurers alike. Despite its rich natural resources and historical attractions such as the capital city Bissau and the historical town of Cacheu, Guinea‑Bissau’s tourism sector remains in its infancy compared to neighboring nations. Tourism revenue in 2019 was reported to be around US$89 million, a modest figure reflecting both the untapped potential and the challenges of infrastructure and security in the country. In recent years, a growing number of visitors have been drawn to the country’s unspoiled beaches, mangrove ecosystems, and cultural festivals, which are increasingly featured on popular international accommodation platforms such as Airbnb, Booking.com, and Likibu.
The short‐term rental market in Guinea‑Bissau is emerging organically. Many property owners in Bissau and coastal towns now list guesthouses and small apartments as vacation rentals, catering to tourists seeking authentic experiences away from conventional hotels. The market is still informal, with few specific regulations or licensing schemes, yet it is poised for growth as the country continues to liberalize its economy and as global travelers increasingly seek “off the beaten track” destinations. The government’s efforts to boost tourism—and the revenue it generates as a percent of GDP (approximately 1.27% as per recent data) could eventually lead to a more structured regulatory framework. This evolving landscape, coupled with investment from international agencies and local initiatives, makes Guinea‑Bissau an intriguing case study in the gradual formalization of STR practices.