Malabo -> Attractions

Attractions

 

Malabo is located on a natural crater shaped harbour at the base of Pico Basile which itself makes the city a rather picturesque destination. The warm and friendly people further make it a much sought after place for visitors. The city is lined with graceful Spanish buildings and visitors are allowed to photograph most of them except for the President's palace and any military installations or military personnel.

Visitors will find it helpful to get hold of a map of the area from one of the Spanish tourist centres. A must see is the Malabo Cathedral, the Spanish Gothic style cathedral designed by claretian Luís Segarra Llairadó. The cathedral is located in the same square as the President's palace. The City Hall and its gardens are also an interesting place. Visitors should also not miss taking a walk along the road to the harbour to see the giant fruit bats that live in the trees.

The city has a bustling marketplace where visitors will find everything from fruits and vegetables to traditional fabric and crafts. Jewellery and carvings on wood can be found in a few small shops in downtown Malabo. Visitors can expect to barter in the market, but may not find the prices much lower than they are at home as most of the goods have to be imported from the mainland.

Malabo has several good restaurants serving traditional cuisine. Mesa Verde, overlooking the harbour, serves an excellent mix of local and Spanish food. The fish is the local specialty. Visitors can sip delicious fruit drinks at Club Nautico's harbour side dining area. Other restaurants, Gue-Gue and the Four Aces, have excellent fish. For those who do not wish to dine at these places there is the Pizza Place where Americans and other foreigners gather. Potable water is not available from the tap anywhere, and visitors are advised to buy Tangui bottled water on the street.