Conakry is the largest city and the capital of Guinea. Located on coastal islands and a peninsula that juts out into the Atlantic Ocean, it is also the nation’s chief port.

The city was founded in 1884 on Tombo Island by French settlers although its political control remained in dispute until Great Britain officially ceded to island to France, which was consolidating its control over the entire colony of Guinea.

Conakry became the capital of French Guinea in 1904 and was the seaport terminus of the only railroad in the colony.

Sights N Sounds of Conakry

Conakry was founded on land belonging to the Susu (Soussou) people. The name “Conakry” originally referred to a nearby Susu fishing village.

The climate of Conakry is tropical with temperatures ranging from 70 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit and high humidity throughout the year. Most of the surrounding area is swampland.

The layout of Conakry is influenced by the early French settlers. The city is divided into quarters with a number of large tree-lined boulevards inspired by Paris and other French cities. Originally the city was only on Tombo Island but has since expanded to include the Iles de Los and the Kaloum Peninsula which is connected to Tombo Island by a causeway.

The Sory Kandia Kouyaté space with its exhibition hall and a performance hall very often hosts prestigious and interesting events. It has a library with 17,500 books and a well-stocked media library. The youth area, which was completely renovated and inaugurated in July 2019 has also become a place for theatrical, musical, dance and other creative activities in recent years.

Since independence the majority of Conakry’s population has been made up of people belonging to the Peuhl, Malinke, and Susu nations, virtually all of whom are Muslim.

It is also Guinea’s educational and cultural center, the home of the University of Conakry as well as many museums, art galleries, and other tourist destinations.

Where to stay in Conakry

Hotel Almamia is a residence located in the heart of the city, in the Almamya district. It offers well-equipped rooms with all comforts it comes a modern hotel comes with.

How to get to Conakry

Conakry International Airport, also known as Gbessia International Airport, is an airport serving Conakry, capital of the Republic of Guinea in West Africa.