what are some interesting facts about Gabon

Gabon can be referred to as a green heart of Africa because the country is a home to almost 88 percent rainforests which are clean and well-maintained. To the adventurous traveler, it provides a glimpse of an undisturbed world in which the elephants have wandered onto the white sand beaches and the hippos have surfed the Atlantic waves.

Should you ever plan to visit this biodiversity hot spot, here are all the details you would need to know about the attractions, the culture, and how to get your Gabon e-Visa.

What is the most famous thing about Gabon?

Gabon is known all over the world as the Second Lung of the Earth. It has almost 88 percent of its land under the tropical rainforest, thus very critical in the ecosystem of the planet. It is known to host 13 super-massive national parks established in 2002 that safeguard some of the most diversified wildlife in the continent including mandrills and forest buffalo.

Can you see “Surfing Hippos” in Gabon?

Yes, this is one of the rarest sights in the world! In Loango National Park, the rainforest meets the Atlantic Ocean. During certain times of the year, lucky travelers can witness hippos and forest elephants playing in the surf or wandering along the white sandy beaches. It is one of the only places on the planet where such a unique “land-meets-sea” wildlife interaction occurs.

Explore the Spiritual Heart of Bwiti Traditions

Gabon is the place of Bwiti to those who want to have a more profound cultural experience. It is a primitive spiritual practice consisting of music, dancing, and use of the sacred Iboga plant. The Gabonese culture is very authentic unlike casual tourist shows. Tourists who visit countryside villages can easily observe the ancient rituals which have not been changed in centuries.

Discover the Giant Mandrills of Lopé National Park

Lopé National Park is a place to visit in case you are a primates lover. It is well known to host the biggest colonies of the mandrills, which are monkeys with bright blue and red faces. Wildlife groups follow these so-called hordes which may consist of more than 1,000 individuals and provide a wildlife spectacle that is comparable to the Great Migration of East Africa.

What are the top things to do in Libreville?

The capital of Libreville is a mixture of contemporary extravagance and soulful Africanness. You may use your morning at the St. Michael’s Cathedral which has hand carved wooden pillars and your afternoon at the National Museum of Arts and Tradition. The Mont-Bouet Market is the place where foodies will experience sensual experience and discover local spices as well as traditional woven fabrics.

Experience the “Niagara of Africa” at Ivindo

Deep in the interior lies the Ivindo National Park, home to the thunderous Kongou Falls. These waterfalls are considered among the most beautiful in Central Africa. Because they are located in a remote area, visiting them feels like a true expedition, often involving pirogue (canoe) rides through the dense jungle.

Is Gabon safe for international travelers in 2026?

Gabon can be said to be among the safest and more stable nations in Central Africa. Although 2026 travel warnings indicate that normal precautions are applicable, it is always prudent to employ a local guide whenever one is exploring the national parks. They are very friendly and usually greet the visitor with a handshake and a pleasant Bonjour.

What does Gabonese food taste like?

The cuisine is a delicious mix of French influence and African staples. You must try Nyembwé Chicken, the national dish made with a rich palm nut sauce. Other delicacies include Atanga (a fruit known as “bush butter”) and various preparations of manioc (cassava). Fresh seafood, particularly braised sea bass, is a staple along the coast.

Witness Leatherback Turtles in Pongara

Just a short boat ride from Libreville is Pongara National Park. Between November and February, this park becomes one of the world’s most important nesting sites for Leatherback Turtles. Watching these giant prehistoric creatures emerge from the ocean to lay their eggs under the moonlight is a life-changing experience.

Your Entry Requirement: The Gabon e-Visa

The majority of international travelers require a visa in order to pay a visit to this ecological paradise. One is the most effective method of acquiring it and this is through the official Gabon e- Visa system.

Gabon e-Visa: Document Requirements

In applying using evisa-gabon.com, you will be expected to post:

  • Passport Copy:A clear copy of your bio-data page in the passport (valid within 6 months).

  • Recent Photograph: A digital passport-style color photo.

  • Yellow Fever Certificate: A copy of your International Certificate of Vaccination (Mandatory).

  • Supporting Docs: Proof of hotel reservation or an invitation letter.

Processing Times & Flexibility

We understand that travel plans can be urgent. Our platform offers three processing speeds:

  • Standard Processing: 3 - 5 Days

  • Rush Processing: 2 - 3 Days

  • Super Rush Processing: 1 - 2 Days

Why Apply via evisa-gabon.com?

The complicated process of immigration is made easier by the use of a special agent.

  1. Guaranteed Approval: Our team will make sure that there is no mistake in every submission.

  2. Refund Policy: we guarantee the money back on the service fees in case your visa is rejected (with conditions, including submitting the requested documents in time).

  3. 24/7 Customer Support: Have questions about your travel itinerary or document uploads? Our support team is available via live chat or WhatsApp.

  4. Security: Your information is kept in high security centers having state of the art encryption.

What is the best month to visit Gabon?

The best time to visit is during the Dry Season (June to August). This is the ideal window for trekking, whale watching, and seeing the massive mandrill hoards. A shorter dry period also occurs in December and January, which is excellent for birdwatching and seeing leatherback turtles nesting on the beaches.

Is Gabon expensive to visit?

Gaban can be a rather expensive destination compared with other African destinations as it emphasizes high-end, low-impact ecotourism. Nevertheless, being the sole tourist in the paradise of Africa, as there are very few other tourists, is an invaluable adventure with lovers of nature.

Ready to explore the “Green Heart of Africa”?

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