Gabon 7 Day Itinerary

Gabon 7-Day Travel Itinerary (Markdown Format)

Day 1: Arrival in Libreville

  • Arrive at Leon M’BA International Airport (Libreville).
  • Check-in at your hotel and rest after the flight.
  • Explore the city: Visit the Presidential Palace, Museum of Gabon (Musée des Arts et d’Artisanat du Gabon), and the bustling Marché aux Poissons (Fish Market).
  • Tips: Remember to adjust to the Central African Time Zone (CAT) which is UTC+1.

Day 2: Libreville & Iles de Moulinettes

  • Morning visit to the National Park of Lopé: Home to lowland gorillas, chimpanzees, and many other species. Don’t forget binoculars for birdwatching!
  • Afternoon at Iles de Moulinettes: Relax on these beautiful islands, enjoy a meal at one of the seafood restaurants, and take a boat tour to spot dolphins and sea turtles.

Day 3: Loango National Park

  • Early morning departure from Libreville to Loango National Park (approx. 5 hours by road).
  • Spend the day experiencing a variety of wildlife in this coastal park, including elephants, hippos, and various primates.
  • Overnight stay at one of the eco-lodges within the park.

Day 4: Loango National Park

  • Full day exploring Loango National Park by foot, boat, or 4x4 vehicle. Activities include beach walks, dolphin watching, and birdwatching.
  • Night safari for nocturnal wildlife sightings.

Day 5: Port-Gentil

  • Return to Libreville and continue your journey to Port-Gentil (approx. 4 hours by road).
  • Visit the Oceanographic Museum, take a stroll along the seaside promenade, and enjoy local cuisine at one of the restaurants.

Day 6: Pekoni & Gambema National Park

  • Morning departure to Pekoni (approx. 2 hours by road), a charming coastal village known for its traditional architecture.
  • Afternoon safari in Gambema National Park, home to African forest elephants and various primates.
  • Overnight stay at a local guesthouse or eco-lodge.

Day 7: Return to Libreville & Departure

  • Return to Libreville (approx. 2 hours by road).
  • Spend the rest of the day shopping for souvenirs, enjoying local cuisine, and preparing for your departure.
  • Depart from Leon M’BA International Airport.

Important Information:

  1. Visa: Most nationalities require a visa to enter Gabon. Check with your local embassy or consulate to confirm requirements.
  2. Transportation: While there are flights connecting major cities, road travel is the most common way to explore Gabon. Taxis and shared taxis (taxi-brousse) are available for transportation within towns and cities.
  3. Currency: The official currency of Gabon is the Central African CFA franc (XAF). Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it’s best to have cash on hand.
  4. Health & Safety: Ensure your vaccinations are up-to-date, including yellow fever. Malaria prevention medication may also be necessary. Always exercise caution when traveling, especially after dark.
  5. Language: The official languages of Gabon are French and Fang. While English is not as common, many people in the tourism industry speak it.
  6. Electricity: The electrical supply in Gabon is 220V with a frequency of 50Hz. Plugs are Type E (two round pins) and C (one round pin with one flat pin).

Gabon 7-Day Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Libreville

  • Arrive at Léon M’BA International Airport (LBV) in Libreville.
  • Check-in at a hotel, rest and acclimatize.
  • Visit the Mosque of Said Moussa, one of the largest mosques in Africa.
  • Explore the local markets for some authentic Gabonese crafts and food.

Day 2: Exploring Libreville

  • Visit the Presidential Palace and the Monument of the Independence, symbolizing Gabon’s independence.
  • Spend the afternoon at Plage des Pangalites, a beautiful beach in the heart of the city.
  • In the evening, enjoy local cuisine at Chez Marcel, a popular restaurant in Libreville.

Day 3: Loire River Cruise

  • Embark on a river cruise along the Loire River to observe wildlife such as hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species.
  • Visit the Loango National Park for an afternoon safari (requires advance booking).

Day 4: Loango National Park

  • Full day dedicated to exploring the Loango National Park.
  • Activities include beach walks, boat safaris, and forest walks to observe chimpanzees, elephants, gorillas, and various other species in their natural habitat.

Day 5: Port-Gentil

  • Travel to Port-Gentil, the second-largest city in Gabon.
  • Visit the Marine Mammal Sanctuary for whale watching (best from June to October).
  • Explore the beaches and local markets in the afternoon.

Day 6: Parc National de la Lopé

  • Day trip to Parc National de la Lopé, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its primate population.
  • Observe gorillas, chimpanzees, and other species in their natural habitat.
  • Return to Port-Gentil in the evening.

Day 7: Departure

  • Spend the morning at leisure or do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs.
  • Depart from Léon M’BA International Airport (LBV) with unforgettable memories of Gabon.

Things to Know:

  1. Gabon is a safe country, but it’s always advisable to be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
  2. The official language is French, although many Gabonese speak Fang or Myène.
  3. The local currency is the Central African CFA franc (XAF). Credit cards are accepted in major cities, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand.
  4. Electrical outlets in Gabon typically use type C Europlugs. Adapters can be purchased at electronics stores or brought from home if needed.

Visa Requirements:

  1. Citizens of most countries need a visa to enter Gabon. Check the official Gabonese embassy website for the latest requirements and application process.
  2. It’s recommended to apply for a visa well in advance, as processing times may vary.

Transportation:

  1. Taxis are readily available in cities, but it’s always best to agree on the fare before starting your journey.
  2. Car rental services are also available, although driving can be challenging due to poor road conditions and unfamiliarity with local rules.
  3. For longer journeys, consider booking a private car or using shared taxis (known as “dalle-dalle”).