Gabon

Gabon is one of the last great wildernesses on Earth, a country where dense rainforest covers nearly 90% of the land and spills directly onto the Atlantic coast. For families with a sense of adventure and a love for nature, it offers an experience unlike the typical savannah safaris of East Africa. Here, the jungle is thick, the wildlife is unique, and the tourism is low-volume and exclusive.

The crown jewel for wildlife-loving families is Loango National Park. Known as the "Land of Surfing Hippos," it is one of the few places in the world where you can see forest elephants, buffalos, and gorillas roaming the white sand beaches. While spotting a hippo in the waves requires luck, the sight of elephants emerging from the treeline to walk by the ocean is a frequent and unforgettable occurrence. Guided boat safaris in the lagoons offer a relaxing and safe way for children to spot crocodiles, sitatungas, and vibrant birdlife without the fatigue of jungle trekking.

For a more accessible family experience, Lékédi Park near Bakoumba is an excellent choice. This protected sanctuary features a modular suspension bridge that allows older children and teens to walk safely through the rainforest canopy. The park is famous for its habituated troops of mandrills-colorful primates that are easily observed here compared to the deep wild. The park also acts as a rehabilitation center for gorillas and chimpanzees, offering educational opportunities for kids to learn about conservation.

Just a short boat ride from the capital, Pongara National Park offers a magical experience between November and February, when thousands of leatherback turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. Lodges here provide guided night walks to witness this ancient ritual. During the dry season (July to September), the coast becomes a prime spot for whale watching, as humpback whales migrate through these warm waters.

Practical Considerations for Families:

Gabon is a safe but adventurous destination that requires careful planning. French is the official language, so a phrasebook or translation app is essential. The country is one of the more expensive destinations in Africa, and infrastructure outside the main cities is limited; families should book organized tours with reputable operators who handle 4x4 transport and permits. Malaria prophylaxis is necessary for all family members. While Libreville is a modern city with supermarkets and calm weekend beaches like Pointe-Denis, visitors should exercise increased caution regarding petty crime in urban areas and avoid large political gatherings.