Ecolodges & Wildlife Excursions in Gabon, Africa
When it comes to immersing yourself in nature and experiencing the beauty of the African, Gabon is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With its lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes, Gabon offers a unique opportunity for travelers to connect with nature by staying at an ecolodge.
African Forest Elephant, Loxodonta cyclotis
Critically Endangered
Why chose Gabon for wildlife experiences?
Gabon is home to some of the most pristine and untouched natural environments in Africa, making it an ideal location for ecolodges that prioritize sustainability and conservation. With over 10% of the country designated as national parks, visitors to Gabon can immerse themselves in the beauty of the rainforest while supporting local communities and wildlife conservation efforts.
Malachite Kingfisher, Corythornis cristata
How do ecolodges in Gabon contribute to conservation?
Ecolodges in Gabon are committed to minimizing their environmental impact and supporting conservation initiatives. From using renewable energy sources to implementing waste management practices, these ecolodges strive to operate in harmony with the surrounding ecosystem. Additionally, many ecolodges in Gabon actively support local conservation projects and provide educational opportunities for guests to learn about the importance of preserving the country's natural heritage.
Western Lowland Gorilla, Gorilla gorilla gorilla
Critically Endangered
What can travelers expect from an ecolodge experience in Gabon?
Travelers staying at ecolodges in Gabon can look forward to a unique and immersive experience that allows them to connect with nature on a deeper level. From guided wildlife tours to cultural exchanges with local communities, ecolodges in Gabon offer a range of activities that showcase the country's natural and cultural diversity. Guests can also enjoy comfortable accommodations, delicious local cuisine, and the opportunity to unwind in a tranquil and sustainable setting.
Central African Slender-snouted crocodile, Mecistops leptorhyncus
Why choose an ecolodge experience in Gabon over traditional accommodations?
By choosing to stay at an ecolodge in Gabon, travelers can make a positive impact on the environment and support local conservation efforts. Ecolodges in Gabon offer a more sustainable and responsible alternative to traditional accommodations, allowing guests to enjoy a unique and authentic travel experience while contributing to the preservation of Gabon's natural heritage. Additionally, ecolodges in Gabon provide an opportunity for travelers to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of modern life and reconnect with the natural world in a meaningful way.
Overall, ecolodge experiences in Gabon offer a one-of-a-kind opportunity for travelers to explore the beauty of Africa's rainforests while supporting conservation efforts and sustainable tourism practices. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, wildlife lover, or eco-conscious traveler, a stay at an ecolodge in Gabon is sure to be a memorable and enriching experience.
My Wild Gabon Experience:
I’ve been traveling around the world for 15 years and have encountered some gorgeous luxury ecolodges, as well as rustic lodgings. I’m no stranger to primitive camping, either. But this African adventure started in Gabon: from a luxurious ecolodge to a rustic research camp to a beautiful bush camp.
The journey started in Omboué with Hotel Olako. A beautiful hotel with African artifacts and flare: Porcupine quill lamp shades, rich earth tones, and cozy accommodations.
Our excursion took us on the Mpivié River to search for the gavials, or slender-snouted crocodiles. The water was like glass, and photographic conditions were just perfect! We lost count how many young crocodiles we saw, basking on the overhanging branches and logs. However, it seems like most photographers come to this place to get this beautiful shot of these crocodiles. I saw one in the hotel, the airport, and on plenty of travel agency websites. It's a great location to *almost* guarantee a crocodilian sighting.
Central African Slender-snouted crocodile, Mecistops leptorhyncus
We also saw plenty of bird species and really interesting bird nests, like the impressive hamerkop bird nests and weaver nests hanging like pendulums over the water.
African Giant Kingfisher, Megaceryle maxima
For dinner, a 3 course meal was served with delicious fish, cooked plantains, and fresh pineapple slices for dessert. Breakfast was also included.
BONUS: On the safari ride to the hotel, we stopped to watch a Forest Elephant feeding on the side of the road! Watch the video on my social media channels.
Hotel Olako: https://hotelolako.com/
2-month old baby with mother; African Forest Elephants
Next on our adventure through Gabon, we took the safari jeep 2 hours to Loango National Park. During the drive, we got a good dose of the rainy season as we drove an hour in a torrential downpour in an open sided jeep. It was a good moment to test out REI’s Trailmade Rain Jacket and waterproof backpack cover for my camera gear. I’m happy to report that it was dry and spared from the rain, however our luggage wasn’t. Even though we brought hard-sided suitcases, the rain seeped in through the zipper.
We finally arrived and unpacked our wet luggage to start drying out and tried to change into mostly dry clothes for our Safari excursions into the park.
African Forest Buffalo, Syncerus caffer nanus
We saw so many Forest elephants, Forest buffalos, bee-eater birds nesting in the sand, Palm nut vultures and crying Ibis flying around from the treetops. We even stopped to admire a large dung-beetle rolling his carefully molded ball of dung through the sandy ruts in the road. As we were leaving the savanna and coming upon the beach, we spotted a Nile crocodile! Lounging on the beach near the waves. We were told this was a rare sight and so that makes crocodile species #2. It was a good thing that we saw this because it was our only sighting of Nile crocodiles in the entire trip.
Rosy Bee-eater bird, Merops malimbicus
Palm Nut Vulture, Gypohierax angolensis
Also known as the Vulturine Fish Eagle
Nile crocodile, Crocodylus niloticus
Our second afternoon Safari trek brought us a sweet sight of a 2 week old baby elephant walking across the savanna with its mother (photo featured above). The sunset was setting, which creating beautiful photographic conditions for Forest buffalos grazing before nightfall, and a large herd of Red River Hogs running across the open savanna into the protection of the forest.
Red River Hogs, Potamochoerus porcus
Our ecolodge was a giant safari-style tent with air conditioning and a gorgeous view of the river leading out to the ocean, where we could watch the waves crashing on the beach. We also had a private bathroom with a hot water shower. The fun part was using it at night, as the bats would flit around after insects attracted to the light.
Every meal was expertly prepared by Chef Stefan. Very French and very delicious!
BONUS: We woke up early, took an hour boat ride to a the Gorilla Research Camp. Then trekked about an hour into the jungle and across a swamp, up to our waists in water. That was when I decided on 2 things: 1) I will need a waterproof dry bag for my camera on future adventures, and 2) I will have to just be okay with getting attacked by leeches. I will just have to accept it. While I did see a giant full leech on my shoe, I was relieved to NOT have any leeches on me.
The gorilla troop was up high in a tree, feeding on fruits, which was okay to say I saw them but the photographic conditions were disappointing. They were severely backlit and tucked into the tree branches, making it difficult to get any decent photos. But eventually, the whole family came down to find fallen fruit and a comfortable place for a nap. It was intimidating and magical.
They have been habituated to a point of comfort, that the mother of this 2 month old gorilla let us watch it's playful nature while she was trying to take a nap. She was unsuccessful at getting any sleep, but something every mother can relate to!
Loango Lodge in Loango National Park: https://www.loango-tourism.com/
Next incredible ecolodge was at NGANGA Bush Camp.
With a beautiful and comfortable bungalow and well-maintained area on the edge of the river, the over sights to see are incredible. The wide expanse of savanna and incredible wildlife viewing along the river.
Weaver bird nests
Malachite Kingfisher, Corythornis cristata
White-headed (or crowned) Lapwing, Vanellus albiceps
The comfortable bungalow could accommodate 4 persons with a private bath and shower. All the meals were included and beautifully prepared. A true “River to Table” experience with fresh fish, prawns, and crabs, and fresh vegetables from the garden. It was an incredible culinary experience!
During the day and evening, we went for multiple safari rides in an all-terrian vehicle. Through the open savanna and dense forests, we saw Forest elephant and Forest buffalos, many different bird species, and a variety of small mammals. We specifically wanted to see crocodiles, so we went out at night with a spotlight to look for crocodilian eye-shine. This park has all 3 species of Gabon’s crocodiles, and it was amazing to find them all in one location: Nile crocodiles, Central African Slender-snouted crocodiles (see photo below of me with a juvenile), and the Forest (or Dwarf) crocodile.
BONUS ACCOMMADATIONS:
One place we wanted to see was the location of the Cave Crocodiles: Dwarf crocodiles that have over time turned orange from living in the cave systems. They appear to live off bats and other cave-dwelling (visiting) creatures, and have turned orange from living in the bat guano for so long.
After our stay in Loango National Park, we made a quick stop at Camp Liambissi where most tourists stay, right on the beach with delicious food. The owners told us Forest elephants come right up to the main patio area.
But we weren’t staying at this beautiful, comfortable place…we were going to travel hours by boat and truck to a “rustic” research camp (ABANDA) for the “cave crocodiles”. This place is not for the faint of heart, but the 3 course meal and wine was delicious.
Forest (or Dwarf) crocodile, Osteolaemus tetraspis
HOW TO TRAVEL TO GABON: Tips on Visas and Vaccines
Getting into Gabon was not easy, but it’s not impossible.
Current Vaccination Information for Americans: This information may be different in other countries. But it was a requirement of the Gabon government to have documentation of a Yellow Fever vaccine. Thankfully, once you get it, it’s good for the rest of your life.
It was recommended to get a Typhoid Fever vaccination. We chose the oral tablets, which is a cultured live vaccine cultured designed to lasts for 5 years in your system.
We also took antimalarial medicine, Malarone, because of the mosquitoes that carry it. Mostly it occurs in the cities, where the human population is the highest. My opinion, not medical advice: I preferred this medicine over something like doxycycline, which really upset my stomach.
For obtaining the Visa: Obtaining the visa was not quick nor easy to get, but don't let that deter you! And do not attempt to use the E-Visa website! It’s unreliable and we received an email during our stay in Gabon that said our e-visa was rejected.
Before we left America, we sent our passports to the Gabonese Embassy to be stamped and filled out. Unfortunately, they hand-wrote it, so it caused an issue at the airport leaving the US. But it should be good for 3 years…or 5 or 6 years…it’s difficult to tell.
It’s also not simple for Americans to enter the country as it is for other African countries. The visa requirements and customs control officers need to see that you have a return ticket to leave Gabon, hotel reservations or other accommodations, AND an invitation to enter the country. It’s not impossible, but the avenue to enter the country for ecotourism is not as easy as it is for other Africa countries like South Africa with the iconic Big 5 Wildlife Safaris.
Here’s information about visa and vaccines: https://www.gabonembassyusa.org/en/travel-ecotourism
Don't let this stop you! Get out there and explore Gabon. The landscapes and wildlife are unique, exciting, and beautiful! If you're curious about traveling to Gabon and have any questions about my experience, don't hesitate to send me a message! I would love to help you see more of this beautiful planet.