Travel : Gabon : Best tourist spots & other details of this mesmerising African nation

 

Gabon, located on the west coast of Central Africa, is a country known for its rich biodiversity and vast expanses of pristine wilderness. It is one of the most forested countries in Africa, with rainforests covering approximately 85% of its land. Gabon is often referred to as "Africa’s Last Eden" due to its well-preserved national parks, which are home to a wide variety of wildlife, including gorillas, elephants, and hippos. The country is also rich in oil and mineral resources, which contribute significantly to its economy. The capital city, Libreville, is a bustling urban center with a vibrant culture, reflecting Gabon's French colonial past and African heritage.

 Best Spots to Visit

1. **Loango National Park**

   - **Description:** Often called the "Land of the Surfing Hippos," Loango is one of Gabon’s most famous national parks.

   - **Highlights:** Loango offers a unique mix of ecosystems, including savannahs, lagoons, mangroves, and beaches. The park is famous for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, gorillas, and hippos, which can sometimes be seen on the beach. Loango is also a prime location for whale watching (from July to September) and bird watching, with over 350 species recorded.

2. **Lopé National Park**

   - **Description:** A UNESCO World Heritage site located in central Gabon, known for its mix of savannah and forest.

   - **Highlights:** Lopé is the oldest national park in Gabon and offers a unique landscape of savannah grasslands and ancient rainforest. The park is home to a significant population of lowland gorillas, chimpanzees, and mandrills. Visitors can explore the park on guided tours, which offer opportunities to see wildlife, visit ancient rock carvings, and hike through the scenic landscapes.

3. **Ivindo National Park**

   - **Description:** Located in northeastern Gabon, Ivindo is known for its spectacular waterfalls and dense rainforest.

   - **Highlights:** The park is home to the famous Kongou and Mingouli waterfalls, which are among the most impressive in Central Africa. Ivindo is also a biodiversity hotspot, with a rich variety of flora and fauna, including forest elephants, gorillas, and rare bird species. The Langoué Bai, a large clearing in the forest, is a great place to observe wildlife in their natural habitat.

4. **Libreville**

   - **Description:** The capital and largest city of Gabon, located on the Atlantic coast.

   - **Highlights:** Libreville is a modern city with a blend of African and French influences. Key attractions include the National Museum of Arts and Traditions, which showcases Gabonese culture and history, and St. Michael's Cathedral, known for its unique architecture and wooden sculptures. The city’s seafront, lined with restaurants, bars, and markets, offers a glimpse into the vibrant urban life of Gabon.

5. **Pongara National Park**

   - **Description:** A coastal park located near Libreville, known for its beaches and mangroves.

   - **Highlights:** Pongara National Park offers a combination of beach and forest environments, making it an ideal destination for those looking to relax and explore nature. The park is a nesting site for leatherback turtles, which come to lay their eggs on the beach between November and February. The park also provides opportunities for bird watching, hiking, and boat trips through the mangroves.

6. **Akanda National Park**

   - **Description:** Located near Libreville, Akanda is known for its extensive mangroves and tidal flats.

   - **Highlights:** Akanda National Park is a crucial habitat for migratory birds, making it a prime destination for birdwatchers. The park’s mangroves and wetlands are also home to a variety of marine life, including dolphins and manatees. Visitors can explore the park by boat, experiencing the tranquility of the mangrove forests and the diversity of its wildlife.

7. **Mayumba National Park**

   - **Description:** A marine park located in southern Gabon, famous for its beaches and marine life.

   - **Highlights:** Mayumba is a protected area that focuses on the conservation of marine turtles, particularly leatherback turtles, which nest on its beaches. The park is also home to humpback whales, which can be seen between July and September. The pristine beaches of Mayumba are ideal for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.

8. **Fernan Vaz Lagoon**

   - **Description:** A large lagoon located on the coast, known for its stunning landscapes and wildlife.

   - **Highlights:** The Fernan Vaz Lagoon is a peaceful area where visitors can explore by boat, spotting birds, monkeys, and other wildlife. The lagoon is also home to a gorilla rehabilitation and reintroduction center, where visitors can learn about conservation efforts. The area offers a unique opportunity to experience Gabon’s natural beauty and tranquility.

Best Seasons to Visit

Gabon has an equatorial climate with a rainy season and a dry season. The best time to visit depends on your interests:

- **May to September (Dry Season):** This is the best time for wildlife viewing, particularly in national parks like Loango, Lopé, and Ivindo. The dry season is also ideal for beach activities and exploring the coastal parks, as there is less rain and the weather is more pleasant.

- **December to February (Short Dry Season):** This period is also good for visiting Gabon, especially for beach lovers and those interested in marine life. It’s the nesting season for leatherback turtles in Pongara and Mayumba National Parks.

- **October to December (Short Rainy Season) & February to May (Long Rainy Season):** While travel is possible during these times, some areas may be less accessible due to heavy rains. However, the rainy season brings lush greenery and is a great time for bird watching and experiencing Gabon’s vibrant landscapes.

Best Cuisines

Gabonese cuisine reflects the country's diverse culture and natural resources, with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Some traditional dishes to try include:

- **Poulet Nyembwe:** A traditional Gabonese dish made with chicken cooked in palm nut sauce. It is often served with rice, plantains, or fufu (a starchy side dish made from cassava, yams, or plantains).

- **Brochettes:** Skewered and grilled meat, often served with spicy sauce and side dishes like rice or plantains. Brochettes are a popular street food in Gabon.

- **Maboké:** Fish or meat marinated in spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and grilled or steamed. This dish is commonly prepared with freshwater fish and served with plantains or cassava.

- **Atanga (Wild Mango):** A unique fruit found in Gabon, often cooked and eaten with salt. It has a tangy flavor and is used in various dishes.

- **Saka-Saka:** A dish made from cassava leaves cooked with palm oil, onions, and spices, often served with rice or fufu.

- **Nyembwe (Palm Butter Sauce):** A rich sauce made from palm nuts, used in many Gabonese dishes, particularly with meat and fish.

 Airlines Connectivity

Gabon is well-connected by air, with Libreville International Airport (LBV) serving as the main gateway for international and domestic flights. Libreville is a key hub in Central Africa, offering connections to several major cities in Africa and beyond.

- **Airlines Serving Gabon:**

  - **Air France:** Provides direct flights between Libreville and Paris, connecting Gabon to Europe and other international destinations.

  - **Ethiopian Airlines:** Offers connections to Addis Ababa and onward flights to various international destinations.

  - **Royal Air Maroc:** Connects Libreville with Casablanca, offering routes to Europe, North America, and the Middle East.

  - **Turkish Airlines:** Operates flights between Istanbul and Libreville, providing connections to Europe, Asia, and other regions.

  - **Afrijet:** A regional airline that offers domestic flights within Gabon and to neighboring countries.

  - **Gabon Airlines:** Provides domestic and regional flights, connecting Libreville with other cities in Gabon and nearby countries.

Libreville International Airport is the main entry point for visitors, and from here, domestic flights or overland travel can take you to Gabon’s national parks and other attractions. The country’s air connectivity makes it accessible for travelers from various parts of the world, with frequent flights from major cities in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.