Loango National Park, often nicknamed Africa's Last Eden, is one of the most extraordinary natural sanctuaries on the African continent. Located approximately 250 kilometres south of Port-Gentil, accessible by plane or boat from Gabon's economic capital, this park of over 1,550 square kilometres is home to breathtaking biodiversity, where the equatorial forest meets the Atlantic Ocean.
The most iconic spectacle of Loango is undoubtedly that of African forest elephants walking on the beach. This phenomenon, unique in the world, attracts naturalists and photographers from around the globe. Imagine these majestic pachyderms, some weighing over four tonnes, strolling peacefully on white sand with the ocean as a backdrop. The dry season, from June to September, offers the best chances of witnessing this fascinating spectacle.
The wildlife of Loango is exceptionally rich. The park is home to western lowland gorillas, which can be observed during guided treks through the dense forest. Hippos bathe in the lagoons and sometimes even in the ocean waves, a behaviour observed in very few places in the world. Forest buffaloes, sitatungas, red river hogs and hundreds of bird species complete this living tableau.
From July to September, the waters off the park welcome humpback whales, which come to breed in the warm waters of the Gulf of Guinea. Whale-watching excursions are organized from the park's camps, offering unforgettable encounters with these giants of the sea. Sea turtles, particularly leatherback turtles, come to nest on the park's beaches between November and March, adding another chapter to this natural epic.
Exploration of Loango is conducted from several eco-tourism camps set up in the heart of the park. Operation Loango and other operators offer guided safaris combining boat excursions on the lagoons, forest walks, animal observation from watchtowers and sea outings. Each day brings its share of surprises and wonder.
Gabon has made conservation a pillar of its national policy. Under the initiative of President Omar Bongo Ondimba, thirteen national parks were created in 2002, covering more than 11% of the territory. Loango Park receives particular attention, with scientific research programmes and anti-poaching efforts that ensure the sustainability of this priceless natural heritage.
From Hotel Mandji in Port-Gentil, multi-day excursions to Loango National Park can be arranged. Our concierge coordinates air or sea transfers, camp reservations and activity programmes. We work with the best local guides to offer you an immersive and environmentally respectful experience.
Visiting Loango National Park from Port-Gentil means treating yourself to one of the purest and most moving nature experiences in the world. Combine your comfortable stay at Hotel Mandji with a wild escape into Africa's Last Eden. Contact us to plan your adventure.