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Lake Biao

A crater lake deep in Bioko's southern caldera, one of the least visited places in the country.

Updated 13 September 2026

WhereBioko Sur
Nearest cityMalabo
Best seasonDecember to February
Time to allowA long day
Getting thereIn southern Bioko; long guided walk from Moka, no road access
EntryGuide and permit fees

Lake Biao sits in a crater on Bioko's southern massif, a small dark lake ringed by cliff and cloud forest with no road near it, reached on a long guided walk from Moka. The forest around it is among the least disturbed on the island and holds several of Bioko's endemic primates. Few people go, and the walk needs a guide and permits.

Highlights

  • The crater lake - dark water enclosed by cliff in the southern massif.
  • The cloud forest - largely undisturbed woodland around the crater.
  • The primates - several of Bioko's endemic monkey species in the forest.
  • The isolation - no road within hours of walking.

When to go

December to February is the drier season and the only practical window. The rest of the year is extremely wet. Cloud sits on the massif most days.

Before you go

This is a long, hard day's walk needing a guide and permits. Conditions are wet, muddy and hard throughout. There is no rescue capability.

Nearby

Gran Caldera de Luba is west, and Ureca is south.

What to pack for Lake Biao

Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.

  • Broken-in walking shoes or boots - Grip and ankle support matter more than looks; never hike in brand-new boots. Find on Amazon
  • Layers + a waterproof shell - Mountain weather turns fast; a packable rain jacket saves the day. Find on Amazon
  • Daypack with rain cover - 20-30 litres holds water, snacks, layers and a first-aid kit. Find on Amazon
  • Offline maps + a power bank - Download the trail before you lose signal; carry backup charge. Find on Amazon

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All packing kits

Plan your trip

Where to start if Lake Biao is going on the list.

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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.

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