All access to the Bijagos is through Bubaque, the main island. From Bissau, the standard route is by sea: a weekly government ferry departs the capital's port on Fridays, takes about four hours to reach Bubaque, and returns on Sundays. During the dry season (November to May), the private operator Consulmar runs faster boats that take 90 minutes to two hours each way, costing around 30,000 CFA per person. Book ahead during peak season.
Occasional flights serve Bubaque's small airstrip from Bissau on Air Bissau and charter operators — check current schedules, as services are irregular. The flight takes about 20 minutes. A shared taxi from central Bissau to the port takes 30 to 45 minutes.
Moving between islands requires hiring a motorised pirogue through your guesthouse or a local operator. Trips to Orango, Rubane, João Vieira, and the other islands are negotiated per boat — prices depend on distance and fuel costs. Agree on price, timing, and return before departing.