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Gabon
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Travel
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Accommodation
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Favourite places
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Fact file
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Gabon Gabon probably isn't on most people's radar but if you're looking for an 'off the beaten track' kind of adventure this could be for you. Located in West Africa, on the equator, Gabon offers a wonderful combination of beach, wildlife and culture. National Park status protects over 10% of the country and a large proportion of the country is dense, virgin rain forrest bursting with wildlife. Along the Atlantic coast are miles and miles of untouched beaches with such pure, white sand that it squeaks as you walk barefoot along the shore. Activities include rain forest treks following elephant footprints with squawking toucans overhead; evening turtle expeditions along the beach to watch the turtles lay their eggs; and fine dining in Libreville where there are a number of wonderful restaurants serving up scrummy food as you watch the big red African sun set over the sea. Gabon's tourism industry is in its infancy and the country, although stable, is still quite undeveloped outside the major towns. It's not very easy to find detailed information but there are some amazing places to visit and you will be well rewarded for your extra research and effort. The most comprehensive information can be found here. Most passport holders will need a visa to travel to Gabon. Check out our visa advice page for more information. |
Travel to and in Gabon It's not possible to fly directly from the UK to Libreville, the capital, but Air France fly via Paris which takes around 9 hours. Within Gabon the road network is not very good so it's advisable to fly longer distances. There are internal flights between Libreville, Port Gentil, and Franceville on Afrijet. For shorter distances there are buses, taxis and car hire with or without a driver. Ferries travel up and down the coast between Libreville and Pointe Dennis and there are longer routes to Port Gentil. It's not easy finding detailed information but Lonely Planet outline the options here or you could check with your hotel for up to date information. If you want a real adventure there is a train line which travels across the country between Libreville and Franceville taking at least 12 hours. For pictures and to find out the details see here. |
Accommodation Accommodation in Libreville and the bigger cities is relatively easy to find although you might be surprised at how expensive the top end places cost. There is little mid-range to choose from and budget options are pretty basic but most are clean and friendly. More rurally it can be hard to find accommodation so it might be worth using a specialist Gabon tour operator or organising it in Libreville on arrival. Don't forget that you are in Africa and Gabon isn't a sophisticated tourist destination. Having said all that there are some incredible places just do your research and delve into those reviews. A few recommendations: Pointe-Denis Pongara Lodge - a boat ride away from Libreville this amazing beach retreat combines white sand with rainforest and if you're lucky a glimpse at monkeys, elephants and a whole host of other wildlife. The lodge can organise turtle watching expeditions along the beach and rainforest treks with experienced and knowledgeable guides. The price includes transport from Libreville and all meals, which are delicious! Libreville Residence Hotel du Phare - this great hotel and restaurant is right on the beach and has lovely, comfortable rooms and ocean views. The restaurant serves wonderful food and offers a great place to watch the sunset. Veronique Christine - a more budget option but clean, friendly and close to the beach. |