The People of Gabon attach a lot of respect on the family as the basic unit in enhancing culture and in the upbringing of their children; and they stay together. When a couple is wed, they traditionally move to the husband’s village. That village will hold his family, including brothers and their families, parents, aunts, uncles, grandparents, children, and nieces and nephews.

A gabonese Elder

Gabon has ethnic groups and within each are specific tribes living in a specific locality. Most tribes pay a lot of allegiance to a common ancestor. For this reason, people cannot marry members of their tribe here.
Marriage and Families
In Gabon, it is common for families to share a home with their parents and extended relatives. Gabonese are very communal. Children are raised communally. It is the responsibility of all residents in raising the children. In addition, older siblings at times have to take care of their younger ones.
Here, children born within marriage bonds belong to their fathers; women are expected to have children before marrying so they will still have something should the couple separate.
The children sleep in the cuisine (kitchen hut) with their mother, but are relatively free within the village during the day.
Both boys and girls attend school until they are sixteen by law, though this may not always occur for the above reason. The girls may begin to have children at this point, and the boys continue school or begin to work.

Polygamy is pronounced in Gabon, but having more than one woman becomes expensive and has become a sign of wealth as much as it is an indulgence. Divorce is uncommon but not unheard of. It is expected for women to have several children before wedlock.
However in the event of a divorce, the husband takes the children. Without premarital offspring, the wife would have nothing.
Work in Gabon
In the distribution of work, women raise their many children, cultivate, prepare food, and do the domestic chores. In the villages, the men build a house for the family. The men handle cash crops if there are any, and may have jobs fishing or building. The children help with the chores, do laundry and dishes and clean house.
To legalize a marriage in Gabon, it is witnessed at the mayor’s office in a city, and this is rare. Women choose men who will be able to provide for them, while men choose women who will bear children and keep their home.
Religion
There are several beliefs in Gabon. The majority of the Gabonese are Christian most Roman Catholics and Protestants. There is also ancestral worship plus several thousand Muslims, most of whom migrated from neighbouring African countries.
Cultural Ceremonies
The Bwiti ceremonies involve worshiping ancestors led by ngangas (local doctors). There are special wooden temples for these ceremonies, and participants dress in bright costumes, paint their faces white, remove their shoes, and cover their heads
In Gabon, the dead are rubbed and anointed to remove rigor mortis. Because of the tropical climate, the bodies are interred within two days. They are buried in a wooden coffin. The deceased then joins the ancestors who are to be worshiped with the Bwiti ceremonies. They can be asked for advice, and for remedies for disease. There is a retraite de deuil ceremony one year after death to end the mourning period.

Libreville, Capital City

Libreville, Gabon’s largest and capital city is a fizzy city that can never be conclusively explored on just a single day safari tour. Its pride derives from the plentiful things it has on offer for the country’s tourists.
Striking Libreville city is a port city located on River Gabon besides the sea with amazing surroundings of the nearby equatorial forest.
Gabon tours would be incomplete without a visit to the famous Tourist Attractions in Libreville.
You may wish to start your city vacation tours by visiting the seafront (bord de mer). This is one of the greatest sights in Libreville. Tourists gather here to unwind and rejuvenate themselves while enjoying the cool ocean breeze by the Atlantic Ocean. Adjacent to the seafront are splendid Gabonese carvings overlooking the beach.
Flavour your Gabon Holidays by visiting Nzeng-ayong where you will observe the Arboretum de Sybang – a huge tree sanctuary that is an amalgation of thousands of local species.
Of touristic impression also are the city buildings appearing in sharp contrast to the greenery of the forest fringes but the most important of all being the National Museum - celebrated for the woodcarvings it shelters. The woodcarvings are of Fang architecture.

Other City Attractions

• Ekwata Beach – this is a perfect life-energizing spot for unwinding and relaxing body muscles. It is a popular spot for foreign tourists coming for Europe.
• 

  In the Background is the Palais Presidentiel in Libreville

  Palais Presidentiel – this shrine of magnificence was built by former President Bongo in the 1970. It lies in the heart of the city and can be seen from even the outer areas of the city. It is also a top city attraction.

• L’Eglise St-Michel Libreville – It is distinguished by large wooden columns. The columns were carved by a blind Gabonese man.
• Musee des Arts et Traditions du Gabon – This is a pure treasure in Libreville and Gabon as a country. It features a precious collection of masks making it a must-see attraction in Libreville.
• Pointe-Denis Beach – One of Libreville’s two main beaches, the Pointe-Denis Beach offers ideal setting for camping. It is an immaculate beach popular with numerous water sporting activities such as boat rides and sailing.
• Marche du Mont-Bouet – Marché du Mont-Bouet is a famous market situated near the city centre.

Visit our Gabon Tourism page to get a deeper insight into Gabon and the popular Gabon tourist attractions.

Lively Libreville City at Night

Most pubs and night clubs in Gabon offer cheap energizing services affordable to any one to unwind particularly after the long day’s activity. Enjoy cheap eating and drinking in a wide range of bars, cafes and night clubs all over Gabon.
Libreville and tourist resorts in Gabon have some of the most popular clubs in the country. Whatever type of bar or club you are looking for, you will find it in Gabon.
There are numerous bars with established reputation for exciting nightlife around the city namely Le Zenith, Chez Dede Bar, Hotel Le Meridian’s Bar and Cafe Del Mar.
Most of these bars stock exquisite wines such as the French champagne; and serve fast foods to their clients accompanied with live music (karaoke) and live dance performances. DJs have enclosed stations while in their studios.
They play music from different eras mixed with African souk to suit the tastes of their clients to get them jiggy. Those who enjoy hard-partying do not expect to be disappointed.
Those who want to visit Karaoke club or a dancing club or music shows are also in with a good chance. Le Zenith club is the most famous for this. The club is open till the wee hours.
The dress code for club in most instances is defined; men wear casually in classic pants and jeans with T-shirts whereas the women prefer tight skirts. If you are not well-dressed you may well invite curious looks much to your displeasure. Gabon also has of a lush casino.
Those who have the gusto for a full night blast, be well assured that Gabon has all the more entertaining and outing bit for your fun filled nightlife!

Libreville city is the capital of Gabon. It is an assuming city of attractions offering lots of interesting things for Africa-oriented tourists. Life and excitement generally revolves around the attractions that the city offers. A port on the Gabon River, Libreville is prominent for the timber transactions in the Central African region.
Libreville is multi-purpose and Multi-functioning city served by Libreville Hospital. It is the principle administrative and trading (Timber) center of the country habouring numerous local and International organizations. The Gabon School of Law is also found here. Mont-Bouët and Nombakélé are the major commercial areas of the city. Lalala is the dominant residential area. Bank of West Africa (BAO) opened its first Branch in the city in 1930.
History
Libreville city was originally founded as a trading station as early as 1843. Freed slaves were sent there. It was the chief port of French Equatorial Africa from 1934 to 1946 and was the central focus of the Battle of Gabon in 1940. Originally, the city area was occupied by the Mpongwé tribe way back before the French took it up in 1839. Libreville acquired it name in imitation of Freetown. The city however has gradually gone through ranks slowly initially as a trading post and a minor administrative centre to a now vibrant trading hub of the whole country.
Geography
Libreville city is a port and lies on River Komo just adjacent the Gulf of Guinea.
City Tours and Family Vacationing
Libreville has a new profound status as a top family destination; today, it boasts safari activities for both the young and old. Sporting activities including Golf, tennis, horseback riding, bowling, squash and sailing light up the city’s vibrancy. It offers a perfect relaxing destination after a tedious adventurous travel in Central Africa. Several attractions not to be missed here include the lush presidential palace, the Egilse St.Michel and the Musee des Arts et Traditions (known for masks and traditional musical instruments).
Population
The estimated population of residents in Libreville is 578,156 (January 1, 2005). Since independence in 1960, the city has grown rapidly and now houses nearly half the national population.
Climate
Libreville experiences a tropical monsoon climate with a prolonged rain season between September and May punctuated with a short dry period. The dry season is so pronounced between June climaxing in late August. The average temperatures however is constant throughout the year averaging at around 30°C.
Getting There
All international and domestic flights to the city touch down at Libreville International Airport. This is the country’s largest airport and it lies approximately 11km north of the city. Libreville also headquarters the country’s national courier, Air Gabon. Air France or Air Gabon International serves regular flights to Libreville. The city’s port and train station on the Trans-Gabon Railway line to Franceville are located in southern Owendo region. Upon getting, travelers can go around the city and the best way to get around in Libreville is to rent car or taxi. Mini-buses are frequent in the city.
City Shopping
Libreville city offers exciting shopping experiences. The city is proud of its modern shopping malls and complexes such as the giant Marche Mont-Bouet with a wide variety of shopping options for the city tourists -  ranging from household utensils, electronic items, clothings, jewellery, delightful artistic paintings and crafts makings popular in local markets, villages and city streets; cultural and traditional products, foodstuffs and locally manufactured musical instruments. The most attractive buying in Libreville is the cravings of the stones with traditional skills. Mbolo is the main supermarket, and around the Bord De Mer there are several good shops. This is where you meet the real African side of Libreville. We however warn you of the pickpocketers roaming around busy shopping places.
Libreville Hôtels

• Intercontinental Libreville
• Le Méridien Re-Ndama
• Novotel Libreville Rapontchomb
• Hôtel Monts de Cristal

We recommend that you visit our Gabon tourism page for more travel and tourism information and attractions in the Gabon.

Discovering Gabon comprehensively may not be easily done at a snail pace. Reason, this Central African nation dubbed Africa’s Last Eden offers a lot to its visitors. Throughout your Gabon Tours, expect to encounter new travel experiences. Expect a spiced tour in an original natural destination still in its raw state bursting with a unique picturesque beauty.
Gabon is a land of unparalleled beauty. All you need to know is how best you have to enjoy this variety on a guided safari tour.
The country’s most striking features include its amazing national parks of Loango National Park, placed on the Southern Gabon Coast which is renowned for surfing hippos; Ivindo National Park- located on the wilderness of Eastern Gabon is recognized for its own eco-camps and nurturing elephants and gorillas; and Ivindo National Park, one of the most remote wildlife sanctuaries in Africa.
Gabon’s most fascinating feature is its eco-tourism potential which ranks it as Africa’s next ultramodern eco-tourist destination. Special tribute to former President El Hadj Omar Bongo, whose dignified declaration of 10% of Gabon land for national parks not only paved way ecotourism beauty, but opened up doors for eco-tourists, conservationists and travelers.
Gabon Tours are compassionate ventures for Gabon Holidays. The country is today an enthusiastic spot for the nature and wildlife lovers as it shelters a vast collection of wild creatures humming in their natural environments with several exciting opportunities for assertive travellers as they can indulge in adventurous activities such as trekking and hiking.

The spectacular Ogooue River

Places of Tourist Interest in Gabon

• Libreville – the Capital city. This swanky city boasts some ocean-view hotels, office buildings, wide highways, fancy shops and cavalcades of taxis; Libreville looks more like a Miami Beach in the making than a typical African city. The fallacy about Libreville is that it is one of the most expensive cities in the world. Every creature comfort is close to hand, but be prepared to pay for them.
• Loango National Park – this is a popular tourists spot. It is home to a vast collection of wildlife in Gabon. Wildlife-admirers commonly get engrossed viewing the huge and diverse concentration of wild mammals here. The present land mammals include huge elephants roaming along the sandy beaches and various species of whales and dolphins in the waters.
• Operation Loango – This is Gabon’s principle eco-tourism hub which utilizes tourists’ expenditure for funding the conservation programs. It is located in the Northern end of the Loango Park. A number of eco tourism projects are housed here including crocodile projects, whale, turtle studies and gorilla habitation programmes. Several lush eco-lodges and satellite camps that offer accommodation to the tourists are available.
• L’Eglise St-Michel – this is a uniquely constructed architectural church with 31 unusual wooden columns, carved by a blind Gabonese craftsman, each with a biblical outlook.
• Muse des Arts et Traditions –this is one of the most exciting traditions in Central Africa and definitely worth a visit as long as you can find it.
• Langoue Bai – In south Ivindo lies breathtaking Langoue Bai, a recently discovered wildlife sanctuary. Langoue Bai is a hub for larger animals such as forest buffalos, sitatungas, and red river hogs, elephants and gorillas.
  

  Langoue Gorillas

  It has gained a reputation as one of the places for Tourists would have an amazing opportunity to view this stunning wildlife at a comfortable distance by observing the area on one of the Bai’s three watch towers hidden in the forest edge.  Telescopes are provided to travelers so they can watch from the middle deck, without having to disturb wildlife researchers who are taking notes on the upper deck.

Ivindo Forest Elephants

Several bird species and insects are always chattering and rumbling behind the hills and waterfalls and eery noise of the elephants from deep within the trees. Bird enthusiasts may want to view these lovely creatures from a research station, which is very accessible from nearby Makokou town.
Other Attractions in Ivindo National Park
Apart from the animals, the park has magnificent waterfalls of Koungou, Mingouli and Djidji. They can be best viewed from above. Another magnificent attraction is the Langoue Bai – discovered about three years ago is bounded by massive forest and steep-sided highlands. It is a unique safari attraction for the adventurous bird watchers and researchers. Most activities in the park centre on this Langoué Bai such as viewing the gorillas, elephants and sitatunga feed off the succulent grasses.
Getting There
Access into Ivindo National park is solely via the Trans-Gabon railway (from Libreville or Lope National Park); you can also charter a private aircraft landing on a dirt airstrip; you may also choose to get there by boat or foot. The rivers flowing through the area are large and expeditions into the interior of the forest are occasionally undertaken by boat. All tour facilitations such as refreshments, eats and other necessities get there by train as there is no road link into the Park.
In 2001 a research station camp was established near Langoué Bai by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS). This eco-camp’s principle focus is to monitor the wildlife and clear visitors who come to view the animals. Access to the camp is by foot and visitors carry their own luggage for the duration of the walk.
Of much concern is that some sections of the park have been compromised such as the hydro-electric dam on the Koungou which limits wilderness variety. Research at Langoué Bai focuses mainly on elephants and gorillas, and some elephant have been fitted with GPS transmitters to analyze their movement.
We recommend that all Gabon tourism visitors come to Ivindo Park and see Africa in its raw state.

Giant Gabon Forest Elephants

Gabon, a west-central African nation has come under lime light because of its newly discovered wildlife potential in its wildlife Parks. The country’s outwitting and outplaying pride derives from its rich eco-diversity including vast untouched forests, vast savannahs, and wildlife wonders that provide travel tourists with opportunities to see. Most National Parks in Gabon are extremely remote and this is why they have continued to act as habitats to giant wild animals. Gabon National Parks include;
Loango National Park - Situated along the coast about 260 km in southern the capital Libreville, Magical Loango National Park is a 100 km of wild desolate coastline. It is home to a multitude of wildlife including large herds of Forest Elephants, Red Forest buffaloes, hippopotamus, Sitatunga, Crowned Monkey, Putty-nosed Monkey, Chimpanzee and Manatee, as well as a handful of gorillas. Three species of crocodile, Nile, Slender-nosed and Dwarf are popular in the water logged areas of the Park.
Loango National Park conserves a multitude of coastal habitats, including part of the 220 sq km Iguéla Lagoon – the only significant example of a typical western African lagoon system that is protected within a national park. The Park is known for its exceptional coastal location with a diversity of its ecosystems. It offers a perfect research option to environmentalists.

One of the Several Lope Primates

Lopé National Park -This is located in the central Gabon. It became the first protected area in Gabon in 1946. Lope Park has a relatively dry climate compared to most other equatorial rain forests in the neighbourhood.  Its terrain is dominantly rain forest; north the park is the last remnants of grass savannas created in Central Africa during the last Ice Age. Lopé National Park is a habitant for several imperative primate species, especially Western Lowland Gorilla, chimpanzee, Mandrill and the endemic Sun-tailed Monkey, forest Elephants , Sitatunga, forest Buffalo and Red River Hog. The Park areas are dominantly of open savannah grasslands with extensive patches of forests. Deep in the forest lies Mikongo Camp, set in a small clearing in the primary forest. It comprises wooden bungalows, most with private bathroom facilities. There is always the chance of an encounter with Western Lowland Gorilla and Mandrill and Chimpanzee.
Ivindo National Park - Any Vacation Gabon travel necessitates a tour to amazing Ivindo National Park. This vast swampy stretch in the primeval rainforest has been the feeding and drinking place for Forest Elephants, Forest Buffalo, Sitatunga, Western Lowland Gorillas, and other primates. Another magnificent attraction in the park is the Langoue Bai. The Bai, discovered about three years ago is bounded by massive forest and steep-sided highlands. It is a unique safari destination for the adventurous bird watchers and researchers. Several bird species and insects are always chattering and rumbling behind the hills and waterfalls and eery noise of the elephants from deep within the trees.
Forest treks and bush camping safaris are common in the park. Tourists sometimes spend nights submerged in wonderful wildlife experiences. Travellers commonly sit at the Bai as they watch the Forest Elephants bathing and the Sitatunga scavenging.

Safari Accommodation in Gabon is extensive and varies from luxury western-style safari lodges to rustic research camps. Each in their own way offer perfect vacation and holiday accommodation to maximize their clients’ wildlife viewing opportunities.
Gabon tourists are advised to consult professional Gabon Tour Operators before make reservations for accommodation in Gabon. Plausible to note is that Gabon is just gaining grounds as a perfect leisure tourist destination and therefore one needs guidance in all aspects of tourism at all service levels in the country.
Guideforafrica.com makes for you the perfect selection for your safari lodges in Gabon that will maximize your Gabon holidays dream. Safari lodges in each location are clean, comfortable with the basic standards; lie in serene surroundings with perfect wildlife viewing chances. Have choice for the listed lodges for your Gabon stay.
LOANGO LODGE
Loango Lodge is the main base lodge for excursions into Loango National Park. It is a luxurious and exclusive hideout surrounded by uninterrupted views of the lagoon, savannah and forests over the river and other surrounding areas of the national park which is home to an abundance of wildlife including gorillas, forest elephants and several other giant Gabon mammals. Gabon Safari tours within the park vary depending on the weather of the year. Beach walks, boat trips, game drives, whale watching for best for the season running between July and October.
LOPE HOTEL
Lope Hotel is the only hotels found in Lope National Park; it is an inviting luxury accommodation spot for the traveller. This comfortable hotel in a cool environment of Lope offers access to safaris in the immediate vicinity. It is fitted with wooden bungalows plus ensuite facilities such as air conditioning to provide a gentle relaxing atmosphere in the surrounding savannah and forests. It has a swimming pool on the banks of the Offoue River offers the opportunity to cool off after a day’s long excursion.
EVENGUE LODGE
Principally, Evengue Island is a gorilla sanctuary and reintroduction centre in Gabon. This should therefore be the beginning spot for your Loango National Park tour experience, as it introduces all the landscapes you will encounter on the rest of your wildlife excursions into Loango Park. Evengue is a medium safari lodge.
AKAKA BUSH CAMP
For a true bush camping experience in the most remote sections of Loango Park, Akaka Bush Camp is should give you the best experience. You will be completely immersed in a peaceful jungle surrounding, allowing all your senses to be overwhelmed by the wonder that is Africa’s last Eden. You will discover a lot while residing at Akaka Bush Camp for a memorable safari Vacation.
PTE. ST. CATHÉRINE BEACH CAMP
This is a Beach Camp, where you will find yourself on a great stretch of wild, pristine beach, nearly 100 km long. It is extremely remote that the only footprints in the sand besides your own are those left by scurrying crabs.
LANGOUE BAI CAMP
This is a basic research camp located in Ivindo National Park with lodging facilities to tourists of World Primate Safaris. It’s a typical example of an African traveller’s accommodation. However, it also offers perfect wildlife viewing sites. Access to the camp is an adventurous 3 hrs walk through the thick forests.
BOM BOM ISLAND RESORT
Bom Bom Island Resort is a perfect luxury tourist haven for cooling off. It lies in a green, calm environment offering an ultimate destination for guests on Gabon Holidays. Its secluded accommodation location is offers wonderful views across the green palm fronds and the bay. Safaris here range from bird watching, hiking, whale-watching, diving and snorkelling.

Our guide to Gabon holidays leads you to the best holiday tour sites Africa’s Last Eden! Assured of holiday variety, we introduce you to Gabon’s evident picturesque beauty of extensive unexplored wilderness, amazing forests, fabulous wealth and diversity of natural biodiversity such as the elusive forest elephants, lowland gorillas, chimpanzees, mandrills and some fantastic bird life as clear testimony to its nick name –‘Africa’s Last Eden’.
Lying on the west coast of Africa and straddling the equator, Gabon coastline offers wild amazing beaches, whale watching and a vast network of rivers that nourish and sustain some exceptional biodiversity that flavour any traveller’s holiday around.
This top rising leisure African destination has become a much sought after spot for adventurous holiday makers, honeymooners, vacation tourists and researchers.
Gabon’s increasing prominence as a top leisure destination is very much for those travellers who have travelled to Africa before and have seen primates in the wild already, usually in Rwanda or Uganda.
We recommend that during your Gabon Holiday Tours spice up your vacation stay with safari activities such as;

• Tracking lowland gorillas in the pristine rainforests of Gabon
• Sunset beach walks while you enjoy Africa’s finest whale along the shores
• Excellent birding and night walks for turtles on the beach
• Meet and experience an assorted culture
• You may not want to miss the amazing wildlife of Gabon.
• Holiday tours to the bustling capital city of Libreville.
• You can also opt for diving and snorkeling while in Gabon.

Available Gabon Holiday Accommodation Options

1. Loango Lodge: This luxurious and exclusive lodging hideout lies in a serene environment with spectacular views of the lagoon, savannah and forests and it is a comfortable base from which to explore the Loango National Park during your Gabon holidays.
2. Point St. Catherine Beach Camp – this is another perfect holiday camp in Gabon for relaxing after wildlife holiday tours, taking extended walks, shell collecting or swimming in the sheltered bays.
3. Bom Bom Island Resort – this is a holiday haven more common with bird watchers. It offers the ultimate comfort and secluded accommodation. Its bungalows have their own verandas with perfect views for game viewing.

When to go
June to September is dry season (overcast skies). The rainy season (September to May) is best for birding.
What you need for Holiday
Our recommendation is that you keep your holiday suitcases down to the basics. Long-sleeve shirts are advisable, being useful to help keep any mosquitoes from biting. For ease of carrying soft bags or a medium sized suitcase is preferable. In the summer, clothing of a casual nature, preferably lightweight; cotton shirts, pants, dresses, skirts and shorts are most practical while on safari (preferably khaki, tan or neutral colours). Long pants (and socks) should be worn at night to avoid contact with mosquitoes. While in places shorts are fine, in the damp forests you may prefer to cover-up more (trousers) as they help to ward off mosquitoes and any other biting insects. It is essential to have shoes/lightweight boots with a good gripping sole.
Travel Alert
Malaria is prevalent in the country, so holiday travellers are warned to carry with them malaria pills and a mosquito net when coming. The AIDS scourge unfortunately is wide spread in Gabon; you are advised to be cautious. We also strongly advise that before traveling to Gabon, make detailed enquiries with your countries embassy for the latest guidance in Gabon. Expert Gabon Tour Operators are also recommended for your holiday to make it more indulging and adventurous. A list of professional tour operators, travel agents and accommodation providers either based in or that can organise trips to Gabon can be contacted at our Gabon Tour Operators section.

Libreville city offers hotels of various styles according to your wallet strength, from luxury to budget. Accommodation rates for hotels rooms in Libreville range from 136 USD to 244 USD. Libreville hotels are few in the city, so we encourage you to make your hotel booking well in advance before your Gabon trip.

Accommodations close to Laico Okoume Palace Hotel are highly popular among tourists. Guideforafrica.com offers you a quick online guide in making your choice of the best and cheapest hotel rooms available in Libreville, Gabon.

1. Le Méridien Re-Ndama Hotel Libreville

Luxury Le Meridien Hotel

Hotel location and Description — Le Méridien Re-Ndama is located in the heart of Libreville city alongside the coast of the Gabon Estuary of the Komo River facing the Atlantic Ocean.

Le Méridien Re-Ndama lies in a short distance away from the celebrated sites of Libreville, such as the Art and Culture Museum, le Marché Artisanal, la Pointe Denis’ beaches, and the architecture of L’Eglise St-Michel. Near the hotel is also the Presidential Palace.

Hotel Amenities— the hotel features 6 summit rooms with a capacity of up to 270 guests, indoor tennis courts, an extensive physical fitness centre and an outdoor swimming pool.

Check-In: 1500hrs

Check-Out: 1200hrs

2. Intercontinental Hotel Libreville

Intercontinental Hotels Libreville

Hotel location and Description — this is a five-star Hotel. This 8-floors hotel facility has all the in-house essentials to fully meet any visitor’s expectations. It’s location in a serene surrounding and fully fitted with facilities to match international standards makes it popular amongst business travellers and safari tourists. It has both informal and formal restaurants that specialize in serving local and international cuisine.

Hotel Amenities— the hotel has 300 Guest Rooms, 23 Suites, 8 Floors and 13 conference rooms, 2 Restaurants, an Airline Desk and Rental Car Desk. Other personal Services offered include Beauty Salon, Dry Cleaning/Laundry, Gift Shop and Secretarial Services. Golf, tennis and swimming are all available.

Check-in: 1400hrs

Check-out: 1200hrs

3. Novotel Rapontchombo Hotel Libreville

Hotel location and Description — Novotel Rapontchombo Hotel is located in the city centre. It has a strategic location giving an amazing sea view. The hotel is just 2 min from the business and shopping centre of Libreville. Novotel Rapontchombo hotel goes an extra mile with other services such as guided excursion visits for its clients within the country using the hotel vans. It boasts 188 comfortable and air-conditioned deluxe rooms.

Hotel Amenities — Golf court, Outdoor Pool, Indoor Tennis court, Air Conditioned deluxe rooms, Bar / Lounge, Business Center, Interconnecting rooms, Cribs, Disco, 24-hours medical services, Free Airport van, Gift Shop, Golf course plus 24 Hour Security. It also features assembly venues and a grand terraced swimming pool.

Check-In: 1400hrs

Check-Out: 1200hrs

Accommodation rates starting from 92 EUR per night

4. Laico Okoume Palace Hotel Libreville

Hotel location and Description —Laico Libreville Hotel is a 5-star hotel in an ideal location close to Stade Omar Bongo and National Museum of Arts and Traditions. It has tennis courts, an outdoor pool, and a children’s pool. Business amenities at this 3.5-star property include a business center, separate phone bills for separate lines, with High-speed Internet Access plus electrical adapters fitted in each guest room. Additionally, it has a poolside bar and a coffee shop/café. Transportation services at the complex include a complimentary airport van for its visitors. Available also is an exhibit space extending to over 334 sq m, summit halls, banquet facilities offering wedding services and event catering plus a beautified compound with a serene lawn. Additional amenities include a concierge desk and laundry facilities. The hotel balconies have perfect city views.

Hotel Amenities — Laico Okoume Palace Libreville has 327 guestrooms. Cable / Satellite TV.

Each guestroom is individually decorated and furnished. All guestrooms provide fireplaces and desks. Private bathrooms offer bathtubs, bathrobes and slippers, designer toiletries and bidets. Rooms are deluxe fitted with individually controlled Air Conditioning and clean toiletries. Daily Buffet Breakfast is served. Other services include ATM/banking, Babysitting or child care, Hairdryer, newspapers, Safe-deposit box at the front desk with 24 hour guaranteed security.

Hotel Address: 2254 Libreville Gabon, Libreville, Gabon +353 1 65 69 441

Check Price: 245€

Deposit: XAF 25000 per stay

Late check-out: XAF 100

Check-In: 1400hrs

Check-Out: 1200hrs

Accommodation rates starting from 134 EUR per night.

Covering an area of 4,910 sq km, Lope National Park was the first protected area in the country following the creation of the Lope-Okanda Wildlife Reserve in 1946. This massive wilderness and one of the biggest National Parks in Central Africa, s situated in central Gabon and has a predominantly rainforest terrain. To the north the park are the last remnants of grass savannas created during the last Ice Age.

Lope National Park’s fauna is typical for central Africa forests punctuated with a few hills and patches of savanna. Ogooué River, running through the north of the park with wonderful trees gently rolling down to the rivers edge, habours a wide range of birds and giant mammals (63 species of mammals).

The Park came into being in 2002 when former President declared over 13 national parks in the country. It attained the UNESCO World Heritage status later in 2007. In the neighbouring areas of the park are several indigenous pygmy groups occupying forests in the South.

Wildlife

Lopé National Park boasts several important primate species more importantly the western Lowland Gorilla, chimpanzee and the Mandrill; Forest Elephants, Sitatunga and Red River Hog. There is also an endemic sun-tailed monkey living in the Park that was discovered in early 1984. Other mammals available in the Park include Forest Buffaloes, yellow-backed Duikers and Leopards. There is always the chance of an encounter with Western Lowland Gorilla and Mandrill and Chimpanzee on a simple wildlife tour here because of their abundance.

Several Bird species available include rosy bee-eater, crowned hawk eagle, Dja river warbler, great blue turaco, grey-necked rock fowl (pitacarthes), the chocolate-backed kingfisher, and emerald cuckoo and black guinea fowl

Climate

Lopé National Park experiences tropical climatic conditions with warm weather year-in year-out. The Park is relatively dry climate compared to most other equatorial rain forests because of its position in the rain shadow of the Chaillu mountain range. The southern zone of this 4910 sq km extensive park is covered by natural green rainforests. Insignificant patches of savannas appear in the Northern sections. These unique patches of savannas are attractive rare remnants from the last Ice Age over 18,000 years ago

Accommodation

There are also several fundamental camp lodges surrounding the park where you can stay on a safari excursion. Some of the lodges include

• Mikongo Camp- situated deep in the forest but close to research centers. It is set in a small clearing in the primary forest constructed with wooden bungalows and private wash room facilities.
• Lope Hotel-a tranquil venue with bungalows and private bathrooms as well as air-conditioned rooms. It overlooks the Ogooué River which tumbles over a series of rapids. However important to note is there is limited accommodation in Lopé National Park. The available is pretty prized.

Lope NP Wildlife Tours

Visitors explore the Lope National Park mainly in 4×4 open game drive jeeps and at times on foot. In this area the park comprises open savannah grasslands with extensive forest pockets. Visitors explore the forest along a well-developed network of paths, with the assistance of trackers and guides. Bird watching is excellent. For the bird watchers, an amazing bird to search for is the Grey-necked Rockfowl. However you will need a two hours walk through primary forest along a maze of narrow elephant trails before reaching any rocks of any decent viewing position.

Getting There

Visitors to Lopé National Park can get there by chartering aircrafts (has its own airstrip), train or on road using 4WD cars. The Park lies 350 km to the east of the capital, Libreville and it’s a 7-hour ride by car or 4 hours by express train. We recommend that your visit to the park be guided by a knowledgeable tour expert. Wildlife Tours into the park are safer and best enjoyed with 4WD jeeps.

Loango National Park is Gabon’s most sought national park found in western region of the country. Loango- ‘Africa’s Last Eden’ nicknamed by Mike Fay, is situated between the Ndogo and Nkomi Lagoons and is celebrated worldwide site for tarpon of record size plus numerous other large saltwater fish species.
Loango National Park is a classified natural resource conservation zone and has been dedicated to faunal reserve and conservation and today, its Gabon’s premiere high-end eco-tourist destination using tourist dollars to support conservation efforts. It boasts diverse coastal habitats on the western coast of Africa, hence its Africa’s Last Eden nickname. It is so prominent for its surfing hippos; you’ll also find the largest concentration and variety of whales and dolphins, elephants wandering white-sand beaches and an assortment of rare land mammals cavorting in the savannah.

The National Park extends to over 1,550 km to include savanna, pristine beach, forest and mangroves zones which are a perfect tourist destinations in Gabon.

It also stretches to include some sections of the 220 sq km Iguéla Lagoon, the remaining example of a typical western African lagoon system that is protected within a national park.

History of Loango National Park

In 1956 the first regional faunal reserves were created in and around Loango National Park to promote sustainable use of the area’s wildlife and wild lands. In November 2002, President Omar Bongo Ondimba put Gabon firmly on the map by creating 13 new national parks in Gabon. All together, the thirteen parks created represent 10% of the landmass of Gabon. One of the more spectacular parks in this system is Loango National Park. Very few villages currently exist within the park, as most are located on the opposite bank of the Ngove Lagoon. As such, the park is nearly devoid of people and home only to a vast and spectacular array of terrestrial, avian and marine wildlife. While some of these animals inhabit specific ecological niches to which they have been adapting over time immemorial, others such as elephants and buffalos range across a number of landscapes. Many of the animals can be encountered by visitors on foot, in a vehicle, or seen from a blind.

Tourism Potential in Loango

Loango National Park Safari Buffalose

Loango National Park is the most popular national park amidst tourists in the whole of Gabon.

Wildlife-admirers safari excursions always find the park will interesting with countless opportunities of spotting varied concentrations of wild game like various species of whales and dolphins. Tourists get superb chances to observe buffalos, hippos, elephants, gorillas and leopards roaming around and along the white sand beaches. The Park extends over 100 km of uninhabited coastline; you can easily spot humpback and killer whales here.

Loango Accommodation Lodge

Loango Safari Lodge

Loango Lodge is set just outside the Park on a lagoon. It lies in a serene environment perfect for Gabon holidays. It is a safari lodge managed by Africa’s Eden. It employs licensed Gabon Tour operators who organize itineraries and wildlife tours from the main lodge to other destinations. They organize camp in the savannah jungle, the savanna offering unique experiences to the park visitors.

Among the attractive amenities available at Loango lodge are a small pool, restaurant and comfortable lodging rooms. There is an outside deck right on the lagoon that overlooks the national park giving a splendid view to watch animals on the other side.

The Gabon National Flag

Location

The Republic of Gabon is located on the Atlantic coast of central Africa along the Equator. It shares borders with Equatorial Guinea (350 km), Cameroon (298 km) and the Congo Republic (1,903 km). The country covers a total land area of 267,668 sq km and the capital and largest city is Libreville. Other major Gabonese cities are Gamba, Kango and Lucina.

History

The earliest settlers of Gabon are believed to be have been the Babinga, (Pygmies) dating back to 7000 B.C. who were later followed by several Bantu groups from southern and eastern Africa. Presently, this attributes to many tribal groups in the country, the largest being the Fang peoples constituting about 25% of the entire population.

Gabon was firstly explored by Diego Cam, a Portuguese explorer in the early 1400’s. In 1472, more Portuguese explorers discovered the opening of the Como River naming it “Rio de Gabao,” river of Gabon, which later translated into the name of the country.

Portuguese were joined by Dutch travelers who began settling in 1594 and later the French in 1630. Gabon became a French territory in 1888, an autonomous republic within the French Union after World War II, and an independent republic on Aug. 17, 1960. Today more than 10,000 French people live in Gabon, and France is the predominant foreign cultural and commercial influence.

Government

Gabon is a republic state with a democratically elected president. Former President El Hadj Omar Bongo Ondimba is the country’s longest serving leader. He took over power in 1967 and died in June 2009 still serving. Current President is Ali Ben Bongo who got into power on September 3, 2009 after death of his father. The country’s President shields extreme powers for instance the power to dissolve the National Assembly, declare a state of siege, delay legislation, conduct referendums, and appoint or dismiss the prime minister as well as cabinet members. The country enacted a new constitution in March 1991.

Population

Gabon has a population of about 1.45 million (1,442,334 exact). This is the continent’s fifth least densely populated country – 85 per cent of country’s land is covered in tropical forests.

People and Religion

Most Gabonese are of Bantu origin with a multitude of over forty ethnic groups and cultures. The Fang are widely considered to be the biggest, with the Bandjabi (Nzebi) following. Others ethnic groups include the Bakota, Bapounou, Eshira, Myene and Okande. Nationally, 32% of the Gabonese people speak the Fang language as the original mother language.  French is the official language used in Government business dealings, education and communication.

Christianity accounts for over 70% of the Gabonese people. Roman Catholic Church has the biggest number of followers. Other religious groups include animists, Muslims, and practitioners of indigenous African religions.

Climate & When to Travel

Gabon experiences an equatorial climate characterized with warm and tropical spells in the year. It has a wet season between September and May punctuated by a short dry spells from December to January. Gabon’s dry period runs from May and September. The general temperature is 25°C on average, with about 80% humidity so it feels much hotter.

The country also experiences a Whale season which runs from July to September and turtles come ashore to lay eggs from November to January. Mammals wander from forest to savannah depending on the temperatures – these weather changes influence seasonal wildlife migrations in the country a lot. For the adventurous, Whale season is the best time to travel to Gabon.

Gabon’s climatic conditions are influenced by the extensive system of rainforests covering 85% of the country.

Geography

There are three distinct geographical zones, namely the COASTAL PLAINS (ranging between 20 to 300 km from the ocean’s shore), the MOUNTAINS (the Crystal Mountains to the northeast of Libreville, the Chaillu Massif in the centre, culminating at 1575 m with Mount Iboundji), and the savanna in the east. The coastal plains culminate in a large section of the World Wildlife Fund’s Atlantic Equatorial coastal forests eco-region with several patches of Central African mangroves especially on the Muni River estuary on the border with neighbouring Equatorial Guinea.

The largest river is the Ogooué (1,200 km long). Gabon has three KARST AREAS where there are hundreds of caves located in the dolomite and limestone rocks. Some of the caves include Grotte du Lastoursville, Grotte du Lebamba, Grotte du Bongolo and Grotte du Kessipougou. Many caves have not been explored yet. They act as great tourist attractions for the country. Gabon is also noted for efforts to preserve the natural environment.

Economy

A large proportion of the population of Gabonese is poor. The country enjoys a per capita punctuated with high income inequalities. The major natural resources of Gabon are petroleum, magnesium, iron, gold, uranium and forests. Presently the oil sector accounts for 50% of GDP. The rebound of oil prices since 1999 have helped growth, but drops in production have hampered Gabon from fully realizing potential gains, and will continue to temper the gains for most of this decade. Gabon encounters persistent unpredictable oil prices, timber and manganese exports. Which in most cases have kept the economy unstable.

Tourism Potential

Wildlife is one of Gabon's Prime Tourist Attractions

Gabon has plenty of tourist attractions. Whether this is your first time to Gabon or not, there is no shortage of things to do and see in the country. It is a charming and energetic country with lots to offer visitors, including the ancient Gabonese historical monuments, the renaissance beauty and fashion metropolis cities, the Ogooué River, several National Parks such as Loango National Park –wild animals are abundant plus reptiles including 20,000 western lowland gorillas and 60,000 forest elephants – the largest population in Africa – and 700 types of exotic birds. You would not want to miss seeing the amazing savannahs, mangroves, lagoons and beaches that are ideal habitats for varied species of animals and Plants.

If you have been thinking of a Western Central Africa trip for some time, then Gabon, tour is a must for you. Fly cheaply to Gabon, a beautiful country of countless wonders. Although there are no longer any direct flights to Gabon from the UK, both Air France and Gabon Airlines operate direct flights to the capital Libreville from Paris. Various domestic flights are available within Gabon, including a high-frequency link to Port Gentil.
Airlines to Gabon

There are a multitude of essential factors to consider when planning a trip to Gabon. Gabon Flights are popular with SN Brussels touching the country through Douala (Cameroon), from where we will organize your onward flights. It is also possible to fly to Libreville with either Royal Air Maroc (via Casablanca with an overnight stop) or Air France (via Paris).
• Air France- Air France offers one stop flights to Gabon connecting to Paris.
• Delta Airlines- Delta has been in operation since 1929 and although best known for the quantity and quality of it’s domestic US services it is still a major carrier on the international scene flying to almost one hundred countries worldwide.
• Ethiopian Airlines- Ethiopian Airlines from Addis Ababa offers coverage of Africa. It boosts regional connectivity that is second to none.
• Interair South Africa- Interair South Africa is a privately-owned regional airline based in Johannesburg that flies to neighboring African countries.
• South African Airways – Since 1934 South African Airways have been flying the African skies delivering their passengers safely to over 50 countries in Africa and around the world.
• Northwest Airlines
• Royal Air Maroc
Two stop flights are offered by a variety of airlines including Lufthansa, Kenya Airways, British Airways, Swiss, Lufthansa, Korean Air, Air France, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Qantas, Air Canada, Philippine Airlines, British Airlines, Virgin Atlantic and South African Airways.
Popular Flights to Gabon are available from New York, Chicago, Washington, Boston, Atlanta, Dallas, Los Angeles, Manchester, San Francisco, Houston, Orlando and Minneapolis.

International Airports in Gabon – There are three international airports;
• Libreville Leon M’ba International Airport,
• M’Vengue El Hadj Omar Bongo Ondimba International Airport serving the port city of Franceville.
• Port-Gentil International Airport.
A handful of local domestic airlines offer a comprehensive service to some 34 individual regional airports and landing facilities.
Best Time to Travel
Gabon’s climate is equatorial. This means it remains hot all year round with little variation in the average temperature from month to month. This is attributed to its location along the Equator There are two seasons though – the dry season runs from June to August and the wet season from October to May, though humidity is generally high all year round.
As for the travel tips, you need to take care to avoid the country during summer time. Winters are best for traveling and touring purpose as the weather remains pleasantly mild. Though evening moments are best to explore, it is advisable to stick to the more crowded

Gabon’s main international airport it situated near the capital city, Libreville (LBV). From South Africa there are many airlines offering flights to Gabon, and these range from direct flights, one stop flights and two stop flights.

• The Mountains; Mount Iboundji, Mount Pele and Mount Koum
• Rivers; Ogooué, Ivindo, Zadié and Echira
• Main Cities; Libreville, Port Gentil, Moanda, Oyem, Lambaréné, Mouila, Franceville.
• Gabon National Parks; Lope National Park, Loango National Park and Ivindo National Park
• National Museum in Libreville
• Cathedral of St Michael

Accommodation
Finding a good, comfortable and affordable stay in hotels is equally important. If you are traveling to Gabon, especially the first timers, it’s recommended that you always book your hotel accommodation in Gabon well in advance. Similarly those planning for Gabon safari holidays, it’s plausible to make prior arrangements for your lodging and accommodation. Availability of safari lodges in Gabon is very hard to find even during the off seasons especially in major tourist destinations in Gabon.
Search availability of Hotels and Locations: When you are planning for holidays in Gabon endeavour to find out the Hotel room status online. You can also establish your accommodation using the online Gabon Map. If you can’t get accommodation in the city itself, it should be located at a suitable distance from the main tourist attractions.
Budget Accommodation
No matter the budget size, it is a very important to make advance planning for your accommodation in Gabon. The Hotel where you will be staying needs to fit into your budget. It is sensible that you find out the room rates beforehand by either calling up at the hotel or by simply searching online hotels in Gabon. All hotels in the country match the world class categories. Visitors are encouraged to make their reservations in advance.

REGISTERED TOUR OPERATORS IN GABON

About Gabon
Gabon is an independent nation located in west central Africa. It shares shares borders with Equatorial Guinea to the northwest; Cameroon to the north; and with the Republic of Congo in the east and south. It is bounded by the Gulf of Guinea, a stretch of the Atlantic Ocean is in the west. Gabon spread over a total area of approximately 270,000 sq km with a population of 1,500,000. 
Libreville is the Capital City. This French-speaking city is also the country’s largest city. Available are several international-class hotels.
It is also known for its excellent crafts and their music as well – and other things, from pottery and fresh tropical fruit to natural medicines and regional clothe