states: [guinea bissau]
category: natural
year: 2025
region: Africa
latitude/longitude: 11.1200000000, -15.9488888889
unesco id: 1431
world heritage site: 1431
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The Bijagós Archipelago, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Guinea-Bissau, is a pristine cluster of over 80 islands off the West African coast, renowned for its rich biodiversity and unique cultural heritage. The islands feature diverse ecosystems, including mangroves, beaches, and tropical forests, supporting rare species like saltwater hippos and manatees. The local Bijagó people maintain traditional practices, with matriarchal social structures and sacred rituals, making the archipelago a vital cultural and ecological treasure. Its remote location and untouched landscapes offer a glimpse into a harmonious blend of nature and indigenous traditions.