Summary
Some have referred to it as ‘the last Eden on Earth,’ and after visiting, you are likely to concur.
Depart from Libreville, the only significant urban center in Gabon, and you will discover a vast, largely uncharted paradise characterized by pristine beaches, dense rainforests, fast-flowing rivers, and untouched landscapes.
In 2003, ten percent of the country was designated as protected land, and 13 national parks were established to safeguard this last Eden.
Gabon is distinctive among its equatorial African counterparts.
The nation benefits from stability and tranquility.
Moreover, it is recognized as the most progressive and visitor-friendly destination in the region.
However, travelers are advised to collaborate with a local travel agency due to the significant lack of infrastructure, nonexistent roadways, and unreliable transportation options.
This destination offers a genuine adventure, waiting to captivate your heart and evoke a deep connection.
1. Libreville
Approximately one-third of Gabon’s population resides in Libreville. It serves as the capital city and the only notable urban center in the country.
Owing to a surge of oil revenue, you will find well-paved roads, tidy streets, exceptional dining establishments, excellent French wines, casinos, and gated communities.
This environment is distinctly different from that of its neighboring countries.
Nevertheless, Libreville showcases a vibrant heartbeat with lively markets, closely knit communities, and a stunning coastline.
Established in the mid-19th century by emancipated slaves (Libreville translates to ‘Freetown’ in French), the city has slowly evolved and attracted a diverse populace, resulting in a contemporary, eclectic urban area.
In addition to the markets, be sure to visit the National Museum, the Presidential Palace, L’Eglise St-Michel (St Michael Cathedral), and the Musée des Arts et Traditions du Gabon.
When you seek respite, discover a serene beach spot such as Ekwata Island and bask in the sun.
2. Loango National Park
The centerpiece of the 13 national parks is undoubtedly Loango.
Here, one of Africa’s finest safari experiences awaits you.
The park is marked by lush landscapes and remarkable wildlife.
It boasts nearly 200 kilometers of uninhabited coastline, establishing Loango as one of the last completely wild coastal regions.
Additionally, the park comprises forests, lagoons, wetlands, and savannahs.
Aside from the renowned surfing hippos featured by a National Geographic crew in 2004, you may encounter gorillas, elephants on the beach, whales, dolphins, buffalo, and much more.
This location remains one of the last regions on Earth where these animals can access the ocean.
The park is involved in a catch and release fishing initiative, and sport fishermen have been known to catch barracuda, rogue fish, and even sharks.
Many regard Loango as the premier safari destination worldwide.
3. Pongara
The nearly 900 square kilometers of Pongara National Park were chosen for their diverse landscape. The area features forests, mangrove flats, beaches, and savannahs.
This site is remarkably accessible (considering the situation in Gabon) and hosts numerous bird species, including the endangered Damara terns.
The forests are inhabited by monkeys, duikers, buffalo, elephants, and chimpanzees.
Pongara Point, the beach region of the park where the estuary links to the ocean, is essential for endangered leatherback turtles.
This is where they come ashore to lay eggs.
If your visit occurs between November and February, you might participate in one of the many educational programs organized by Adventures Without Borders, which aims to safeguard the turtles and mitigate human threats.
Don’t overlook the initial burial site of Chief Rapontchombo and uncover the enigmas surrounding his second burial location!
4. Fernan Vaz Lagoon
The highlight of the Ogooué maritime region is the Fernan Vaz Lagoon.
Named after the Portuguese explorer who discovered it in the 15th century, this area is involved in several conservation initiatives.
On Gorilla Island, the Fernan-Vaz Gorilla Project (PGFA) operates a sanctuary and reintroduction center.
Currently, two gorillas reside there, serving as ambassadors to educate visitors about the challenges faced by these magnificent creatures.
Additionally, eight orphaned gorillas also inhabit the facility, kept away from human interaction, with the goal of reintroducing them to the wild.
Fernan Vaz also possesses historical significance.
In the late 19th century, the Mission Saint Anne was constructed.
Engineered by Gustave Eiffel himself, the church stands as a remarkable structure, weathered to a distinctive rusty red hue over time.
Explore the grounds by day or night for breathtaking views of the surrounding beach and forest.
5. Ivindo National Park
Arguably the most remote among all national parks, Ivindo is also crucial for biodiversity conservation efforts in Central Africa.
The river stands as the primary feature of the landscape, traversing the rainforest and creating a stunning array of rapids and waterfalls.
Adventure packages are available that enable visitors to camp in the rainforest and around the falls while enjoying a pirogue lesson and day excursions on the river.
Bird enthusiasts will appreciate the 430+ bird species, including African grey parrots.
The park is home to gorillas, chimps, colobus, mandrills, mangebey, sitatunga, duikers, giant pangolins, bush pigs, and more.
Ensure you explore Langoué Bai.
Bai is the Pygmy term for forest clearing, and this stunning area is rich in mineral water.
Elephants maintain the space by digging to the rich saline soil, which subsequently attracts other large mammals for sustenance.
6. Makokou & Kongou Falls
Makokou serves as the capital of the Ogooué-Ivindo region and the gateway to Kongou Falls – Gabon’s own equivalent of Niagara Falls.
Located within Ivindo National Park, Kongou is a must-see destination boasting a 60-meter drop and significant spiritual importance to the local community.
The village of Makokou is rather isolated but provides air, rail, and river access.
Pygmies inhabit the forests surrounding the village, and utilizing the village as a base allows for excellent opportunities to engage with the locals.
7. Franceville
The Trans-Gabon Railway terminus is located in Franceville, one of the four largest municipalities in Gabon.
Historically, it was the preferred location for the government to resettle former slaves and has since evolved into a vibrant, lively community with a village-like ambiance.
Visitors appreciate St. Hilaire’s Church (19th century) and the memorial dedicated to former President Omar.
The marketplace offers a delightful stroll – be sure to sample bushmeat, which includes African Rock Python! Additionally, the nearby Poubara Falls provide an excellent opportunity for nature lovers to explore.
8. Port-Gentil
The second-largest city after Libreville is Port-Gentil (or Mandji, as referred to by some locals). This seaport town serves as the hub for the nation’s timber and petroleum industries.
Given its origins as a customs outpost and base camp for colonial expeditions into the interior, the town’s growth into a center of commercial significance is easily understandable.
Situated on Mandji Island, it does not connect to the mainland via road.
Besides its industrial fame, Port-Gentil is also renowned for its nightlife and casinos.
During daylight hours, be sure to visit the local zoo and St. Louis Church (20th century).
9. Point Denis
Point Denis is particularly popular due to the fact that tourism development has not yet reached this area.
Although it is a short boat ride from Libreville, it feels like a separate world.
The beach spans several kilometers, terminating where Pongara National Park begins.
This laid-back town features cozy restaurants, small boutique hotels, and excellent water sports opportunities.
On the western side of the island, you will encounter only locals and a more rugged coastline.
This locale evokes an immediate sense that you are nearing the equatorial jungle.
If you seek tranquility and long, reflective walks complemented by stunning scenery, Point Denis is an ideal destination.
10. Réserve de la Lopé
Situated directly on the equator is Réserve de la Lopé, featuring savannah, rolling hills, and rainforest where you can spot buffalo, elephants, gorillas, and mandrills.
This national park was initially established as a reserve in the 1940s following the creation of the Okanda Wildlife Reserve.
It has since been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Additionally, a research station operated by the Zoological Society of London is located there.
Visitors can stay at the station and remain within five meters of the rainforest at all times.
11. Lastoursville
Referred to as Lozo by locals, Lastoursville is a tranquil town situated along the banks of the Ogooué River.
While the town itself is unremarkable, its surroundings boast many highlights.
Initially, nature hikes to Boundji Waterfalls present beautiful and serene landscapes.
However, the main attraction consists of the caves located near Lastoursville – accessible via a one-hour walk from the town center.
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005, recent expeditions have mapped over three miles of undiscovered underground cave.
12. Lambaréné
Lambaréné is a town situated approximately 75 kilometers from the equator within the Central African rainforest.
The town gained prominence due to Albert Schweitzer establishing his hospital there in 1913, and it now hosts various Bantu ethnic groups.
Primarily a fishing town, Lambaréné offers a wonderful opportunity to relax and immerse oneself in local Gabonese culture.
You can tour the hospital to witness the remarkable work being done there.
13. Minkébé National Park
Visiting Minkébé can be somewhat challenging, yet the experience is undoubtedly rewarding.
This park, known for its inaccessibility, is a focal point for the World Wildlife Fund’s (WWF) conservation efforts.
Home to gorillas, elephants, leopards, cheetahs, and distinct ethnic groups, WWF is committed to promoting alternative income sources for the local population through various artistic initiatives.
Notably, the WWF indicates that the elephant population here could be the largest in Africa.
A number of species inhabiting the park are listed on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.
During your visit, you will discover the Kwèl and Kota ethnic groups that reside within the park.
Learn about the Baka Edzengui, the forest spirit, the Kota mask, and the Kwèl Deke dance.
14. Mayumba National Park
This park is situated near the Republic of Congo border and is unique as it primarily functions as a marine park.
It comprises a narrow strip of land, encompassing savanna, dunes, beaches, and rainforest.
Approximately 60 kilometers of this area serves as a protected nesting beach for leatherback turtles.
There is a significant opportunity to observe barnacled whales, dolphins, sea turtles, leopards, antelopes, crocodiles, hippos, monkeys, and, indeed, elephants.
Locals assert that the area is safeguarded by ancestral spirits.
15. Akanda National Park
Recognized globally as a key nesting ground for one of the largest populations of migratory birds, Akanda National Park comprises approximately 25% of the protected mangrove areas throughout Africa.
The Bantu tribe considers the Mondah forest, located within the park, a sacred area where many of their myths and legends originate.
This region is also an ideal venue for water sports, fishing, and observing dolphins and whales.
Be sure to visit Leatherback Trove, where the Ministry of Water and Forest collaborates with the Gabon Sea Turtle Partnership to educate teams on monitoring illegal fishing along the coastline in order to protect the diminishing leatherback population, which has decreased by 90%.
