gabon

Gabon Animals

Trek Zone

Follow the Trail of Wild Nature – Nature Tourism in Gabon

Nestled in the heart of Central Africa, Gabon is a haven for a diverse range of wildlife, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. From the dense rainforests to the coastal plains, Gabon is home to an incredible variety of animal species that captivate the imagination and ignite a sense of wonder.

Embark on a journey through the wilds of Gabon and encounter the majestic forest elephants that roam the lush greenery, the elusive western lowland gorillas that inhabit the dense forests, and the vibrant mandrills that add a burst of color to the landscape. Keep an eye out for the graceful sitatunga, a unique antelope species that thrives in the wetlands, and the mesmerizing forest buffalos that are emblematic of Gabon's untamed wilderness. Join us as we explore the living wonders of Gabon's animal kingdom.

Mammals of Gabon

Gabon, a haven for diverse wildlife, is home to an impressive array of mammals that thrive in its lush rainforests and expansive savannas. The country's dense forests are a stronghold for the critically endangered western lowland gorilla, a gentle giant whose social behavior fascinates eco-tourists and researchers alike. Forest elephants, smaller than their savanna cousins, roam the undergrowth, leaving well-trodden paths in their wake. The elusive leopard, with its striking spotted coat, prowls the forests, a master of stealth and an apex predator. Mandrills, the world's largest monkeys, are a colorful spectacle with their vibrant faces and rumps, often seen in large, noisy troops. Gabon's protected areas, such as Loango National Park, offer a sanctuary for these and many other species, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

Birds of Gabon

Gabon, a haven for avian enthusiasts, boasts an impressive array of bird species, including the vibrant African grey parrot, known for its intelligence and ability to mimic human speech. The dense rainforests of Gabon are also home to the strikingly beautiful mandrill, though not a bird, it often shares its habitat with various bird species. Birdwatchers can marvel at the elusive Picathartes, or rockfowl, with its distinctive bald head and neck, which nests in the rocky outcrops of Gabon's forests. The country's diverse ecosystems, ranging from coastal lagoons to dense jungles, support a plethora of birdlife, including the regal fish eagle, which can be seen soaring above water bodies, and the hornbills, with their impressive beaks, adding to the symphony of sounds in the lush canopy.

Reptiles, Amphibians

Top Spots for Wildlife Observation in Gabon

  • Loango National Park, situated along the western coast of Gabon, is a mosaic of beaches, mangroves, and forested savannahs. It is renowned for its surfing hippos, forest elephants, and western lowland gorillas that occasionally wander onto the beaches. Visitors may also spot red river hogs, leopards, and a variety of primates, including chimpanzees and several species of monkeys.
  • Ivindo National Park, located in the heart of Gabon, is a haven for bird enthusiasts, with the Congo River basin providing a habitat for the African grey parrot and the strikingly colored Picathartes. The park's dense rainforests are also home to forest elephants, western lowland gorillas, and elusive mandrills, the world's largest monkeys.
  • Lopé National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, combines savannah and rainforest landscapes. It is one of the best places to observe mandrills in large groups, especially during the dry season. The park also supports populations of forest buffalo, chimpanzees, and numerous bird species, including the great blue turaco and the black-casqued hornbill.
  • Minkébé National Park, in the northeastern part of Gabon, is one of Central Africa's largest protected areas and a stronghold for forest elephants. The park's remote and largely inaccessible forests are also a refuge for western lowland gorillas, leopards, and the rare golden cat.
  • Moukalaba-Doudou National Park, located in southwestern Gabon, offers a diverse array of wildlife, including western lowland gorillas, chimpanzees, and forest elephants. The park's rivers and wetlands are also home to slender-snouted crocodiles and various species of forest duikers.
  • Waka National Park, in the central part of the country, is characterized by its hilly terrain and dense forests. It is a prime location for spotting forest elephants, western lowland gorillas, and a variety of duiker species. Birdwatchers may be rewarded with sightings of the endemic Gabon batis and the vulnerable black-headed bee-eater.

Where to next? Discover country icon Republic of the Congo, a country in the region worth visiting, or use the destination finder