Overview
One of the most naturally exquisite and most prosperous
countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, Gabon straddles the equator on the
west coast of Africa and is bordered by Cameroon, Equatorial
Guinea, the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Atlantic
Ocean.
Many travellers opt to 4X4 through this rugged country, armed
with little more than a French dictionary, some mosquito repellent
and a taste for adventure. Boasting verdant tropical rainforests
teeming with exotic wildlife such as chimpanzees, elephants and
gorillas, the vast green savannahs of Lope-Okanda Reserve, 500
miles (805km) of deserted sandy beaches, lagoons, estuaries and
breathtaking African sunsets, what more could one want?
Gabon is the talk of the town when it comes to eco-tourism,
thanks to the government designating 10 percent of the country's
land to national parks. Just by being there, visitors are already
off the beaten track as everything outside the capital of
Libreville is only recently accessible. The Mayumba National Park
features leatherback turtles nesting in the sandy beaches and
marine life such as sharks, dolphins, and migrating humpback
whales.
Originally inhabited by the Pygmy people, the Portuguese arrived
in the 15th century, naming the country 'Gabão', which is
Portuguese for 'cabin', after the shape of the estuary of the Komo
River. It was later colonised by France in 1885, but went on to
gain independence in 1960.
Travellers are advised to be cautious in Libreville, as any city
has its fair share of crime, and carry a copy of their passport and
visa at all times as police are known to hassle tourists. Female
travellers should prepare themselves for plenty of unwanted
attention.
For those wanting a more touristy experience, Port Gentil at the
mouth of Libreville and Ogooue River offers some wonderful fishing
and is popular amongst European visitors. With so much to see and
do, Gabon has enough charm and diversity to appeal to just about
every traveller.