Equatorial Guinea is located on the west coast of Central Africa and consists of a mainland and an island region. The capital is Malabo on the island of Bioko. The country was formerly a Spanish colony and has experienced two dictatorships since its independence from Spain in 1968. Although it is one of the richest countries in Africa due to its oil wealth, much of the population lives in poverty. The official languages are Spanish, French and Portuguese. The country's attractions include the beaches of Bioko, Monte Alen National Park and the beaches of Mbini.
