Gabon: The Eden of Africa, Where Wilderness Reigns Supreme

 

Stepping foot onto the soil of Gabon, you'll find yourself in one of the world's last remaining wilderness frontiers, an Eden where wildlife outnumbers people and primeval forests meet the Atlantic surf.

This relatively small country along the equator in 

West Africa beckons with an abundance of natural treasures that stand in stark contrast to the typical African safari. 

 

Gabon's heart throbs within its 13 national parks, each a unique testament to the country's commitment to conservation. Loango National Park is a true paradise, where elephants and buffaloes frolic on pristine beaches, humpback whales breach the waters offshore, and a boat trip down the Iguela Lagoon offers the chance to spot hippos, gorillas, and countless bird species.

Lopé National Park, the oldest in Gabon, showcases the harmonious blend of savannah and rainforest, offering rare sightings of mandrills, the world's largest monkey species. Hiking here, you might also stumble upon ancient rock engravings, silent testimonials of the people who once roamed these lands.

Venture into Ivindo National Park to be awestruck by the Kongou Falls, a thundering spectacle that rivals Victoria Falls in majesty. For those seeking solitude, Moukalaba-Doudou National Park’s ethereal landscapes of misty mountains and tranquil lakes rarely see tourists, making it an untrodden gem.
 

For a short video introduction of Gabon. click below

Visa Requirements
Most visitors, except citizens from some African countries, require a visa to enter Gabon.

Currency
The Central African CFA franc (XAF) is the official currency. Credit cards are accepted in larger cities but carry cash for smaller towns and villages.

Language
French is the official language. Fang, Myene, Bateke, Bapounou/Eschira, and Bandjabi are also spoken.

WiFi and SIM Cards
In larger cities and towns, Wi-Fi is generally accessible in hotels and internet cafes. Purchasing a local SIM card for mobile data is recommended for longer stays.

Health and Safety
Gabon has a low crime rate, but travelers should exercise general caution. Healthcare facilities are adequate in Libreville but limited elsewhere. Malaria and other tropical diseases are a risk, and vaccination against yellow fever is required.

 

       Last but not least

Here's another tip (or trick, you decide): Gabon is a paradise for fishers, especially at Sette Cama, at the southern end of Loango National Park. The estuary, lagoons, and surf are rich with tarpon, jack crevalle, and African threadfin. A deep-sea fishing adventure here may well become the highlight of your trip.