Bata, Equatorial Guinea

Capital City

With a population of 290,000, Bata is the largest city in Equatorial Guinea, but it's hardly a tropical paradise. The port city is a transport hub, but its lack of a natural harbor means cargo must be loaded offshore - a logistical headache. And while the climate is less gloomy than the capital Malabo, the rainy season brings downpours of up to 18 inches per month.

Bata was struck by a series of deadly explosions in 2021, killing over 100 people and injuring more than 600. The city's infrastructure remains damaged, and crime and bureaucracy are persistent challenges. If you can overlook the downsides, Bata may appeal to those seeking an off-the-beaten-path African experience, but it's hardly an easy place to call home.