Home › Destinations › Ureca
Ureca, Guinea Ecuatorial - Things to Do in Ureca

Things to Do in Ureca

Ureca, Guinea Ecuatorial - Complete Travel Guide

Ureca is a remote coastal village located on the southern tip of Bioko Island in Equatorial Guinea, representing one of the most pristine and untouched destinations in Central Africa. This small fishing community serves as the gateway to some of the region's most spectacular natural wonders, including pristine beaches, dense tropical rainforests, and important sea turtle nesting sites. The village maintains its traditional way of life, with local Bubi culture still deeply rooted in daily activities and customs. What makes Ureca truly special is its role as a critical nesting ground for several species of sea turtles, including leatherback, green, and hawksbill turtles. The area is also renowned for its incredible biodiversity, serving as a research station for scientists studying the unique ecosystems of Bioko Island. Visitors to Ureca can experience authentic African village life while contributing to important conservation efforts in one of the continent's most ecologically significant regions.

Top Things to Do in Ureca

Sea Turtle Watching

Witness the incredible spectacle of sea turtles coming ashore to nest on Ureca's pristine beaches. This extraordinary experience occurs primarily during the nesting season when massive leatherback, green, and hawksbill turtles emerge from the ocean under cover of darkness. Guided tours with local conservationists provide insight into these ancient creatures' behavior and the ongoing efforts to protect them.

Booking Tip: Book through the Bioko Biodiversity Protection Program or local conservation groups for $30-50 per person. Best viewing is from November to February during nesting season. Night tours require advance booking and sturdy footwear for beach walking.

Traditional Fishing Village Experience

Immerse yourself in the daily life of Ureca's fishing community by joining local fishermen on their morning expeditions or observing traditional net-making and boat-building techniques. This authentic cultural experience provides insight into the Bubi people's maritime traditions and sustainable fishing practices that have been passed down through generations.

Booking Tip: Arrange through local guesthouses or community leaders for $20-30 per day. Early morning departures (5-6 AM) offer the best fishing experiences. Bring sun protection and be prepared for basic boat conditions.

Rainforest Hiking and Wildlife Spotting

Explore the dense tropical rainforests surrounding Ureca, home to endemic species including Bioko drill monkeys, forest elephants, and over 140 bird species. These guided treks through primary forest offer opportunities to spot rare primates and learn about the unique ecosystem that makes Bioko Island a biodiversity hotspot.

Booking Tip: Hire local guides through the research station for $25-40 per day including guide services. Bring insect repellent, waterproof clothing, and sturdy hiking boots. Best wildlife viewing is early morning or late afternoon.

Beach Exploration and Swimming

Discover Ureca's stunning black volcanic sand beaches, perfect for swimming, beachcombing, and enjoying the pristine Atlantic coastline. The beaches offer excellent opportunities for photography and relaxation, with dramatic cliffs and lush forest meeting the ocean in spectacular fashion.

Booking Tip: Beach access is free, but consider hiring a local guide for $10-15 to learn about the area's ecology and locate the best swimming spots. Be aware of strong currents in some areas and always swim with caution.

Research Station Visit and Conservation Learning

Visit the Ureca research station to learn about ongoing conservation efforts and scientific research being conducted on Bioko Island. Interact with international researchers studying everything from primate behavior to marine turtle conservation, gaining unique insights into the challenges and successes of protecting this biodiversity hotspot.

Booking Tip: Contact the station in advance for $15-25 per person for educational tours. Best to arrange through conservation organizations or academic institutions. Visits are subject to researcher availability and ongoing projects.

Getting There

Reaching Ureca requires careful planning as it's one of the most remote destinations in Equatorial Guinea. First, fly into Malabo International Airport on Bioko Island, then arrange ground transportation to Ureca, which involves a challenging 2-3 hour journey over rough roads through dense rainforest. Most visitors arrange transportation through local tour operators or conservation organizations, as the route requires 4WD vehicles and experienced local drivers familiar with the terrain. Some visitors opt for chartered boats from Malabo during calm weather conditions, though this option is weather-dependent and requires advance coordination with local boat operators.

Getting Around

Transportation within Ureca is primarily on foot, as the village is small and most attractions are within walking distance. Local guides can be hired to navigate forest trails and locate the best turtle nesting beaches. For longer excursions into the surrounding rainforest or to reach more remote beaches, arrangements can be made with village residents who own motorcycles or small boats. The research station sometimes provides transportation for educational visits, and some accommodations offer guided tours as part of their packages. Walking is safe during daylight hours, but night movements should always be with local guides, especially during turtle watching expeditions.

Where to Stay

Research Station Guesthouse
Local Family Homestays
Conservation Camp Accommodation
Basic Village Lodges
Camping Areas Near Beach
Community-Run Eco-Lodges

Food & Dining

Dining in Ureca centers around fresh seafood and traditional Equatoguinean cuisine prepared by local families and small community kitchens. The village offers an authentic taste of Bubi culture through dishes featuring locally caught fish, plantains, yams, and tropical fruits. Most meals are arranged through homestays or guesthouses, where families prepare traditional dishes using local ingredients and cooking methods. The research station sometimes provides meals for visitors, offering a mix of local and international cuisine. Fresh fish is abundant and expertly prepared, often grilled over open fires or cooked in traditional stews with local vegetables and spices.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Equatorial Guinea

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

Kenji Ramen (Menya Kenji) Berawa

4.9 /5
(2974 reviews)
bar

Tora Tora Tora Japanese Restaurant Singapore

4.8 /5
(1488 reviews)
meal_takeaway

Ji Restaurant Bali

4.6 /5
(1517 reviews)
bar

Aunty Ji's

4.8 /5
(1222 reviews)

Billy Ho Japanese Restaurant

4.7 /5
(987 reviews)
bar night_club

Kunti 3 Sushi Bar

4.6 /5
(765 reviews)
all dining options →

When to Visit

The optimal time to visit Ureca is during the dry season from December to March, which coincides perfectly with the peak sea turtle nesting season. This period offers the best weather conditions for outdoor activities, with less rainfall and more manageable road conditions for the journey to the village. The turtle nesting season from November through February provides the most rewarding wildlife experiences, though advance booking is essential during this peak period. The wet season from April to November brings heavy rains that can make road access challenging, but it also offers lush forest conditions and fewer visitors for those seeking a more solitary experience.

Insider Tips

Bring all necessary supplies including batteries, toiletries, and medications as there are no shops in Ureca - the nearest supplies are hours away in Malabo
Pack both lightweight clothing for daytime heat and warm layers for cool evenings, plus waterproof gear regardless of season as weather can change quickly
Respect local customs and turtle conservation efforts by following all guidelines from researchers and local guides - flash photography is prohibited during turtle nesting observations

Explore Activities in Ureca