bijagós archipelago


states: [guinea bissau]

category: natural

year: 2025

region: Africa

latitude/longitude: 11.1200000000, -15.9488888889

unesco id: 1431

world heritage site: 1431

Bijagós Archipelago

Copyright © 1992 - 2025 UNESCO/World Heritage Centre. All rights reserved.

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.

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