surfing

Tukes: Bubi Children, Equitorial Guinea; 2007

With such open access to the Atlantic, this region has regular surf. The geography of north west Africa tends to shield the coast from any swell with a northerly or north west component. During the winter however (June-August), large low pressure systems from the South manage to travel along the coastline and deliver regular south west to westerly swell.

The further north you travel the more attenuated this energy is but anything that arrives is often of a very superior period and very neatly stacked. Unfortunately the main swell window on this coast tends to correlate with the SW monsoon which delivers light onshore winds from about April to September. Early morning sessions are the go in Equatorial Guinea during this period. The offshore islands of Annobon and Bioko will be your best bet as the mainland coast is often shielded from swell by these and the islands of Sao Tome and Principe. Make sure you go and say hello to any other surfer you encounter on this coast, as you may not see another for a very long time.

what to pack

Flashdance: A pair of very simple Moroccan flip flops called "Cabjuks"; 25 May 2007

Beach clothing & sandals will be useful if you are going in the warm season. Try to choose classics, and items that you can mix and match. Have at least one set of nicer clothing for more formal occasions.

Definitely take along some bug repellent spray, good sunscreen and sunglasses! Better take your medicines with you (esp. anti histamine tablets), as the brands can be unfamiliar and cost more.

And take a good protection for your camera from the sand. You can also take some stuff to give away to locals (for example, pencils or some sport equipment for kids).