Loango National Park is the crown of Gabon’s parks and made famous through National Geographic’s photographs of its surfing hippos as well as their coverage in David Attenborough’s ‘Africa’. It is managed by the WCS and the ANPN.
The park is located near the coast of Gabon and comprises over 1.550 km² of almost untouched wilderness including the 220 km² Iguéla Lagoon just north of the park near Omboué. It is bordered by a long coastline with alluring white-sand beaches bordering the rainforest on the east of the coast where we find not only forest, but also savanna and mangrove. The beaches often attract large mammals such as elephants, hippos, buffalos and even gorillas and leopards who try out the sand. Although you have to be lucky, you can even witness some animals going into the sea.
Depending on the season, you can also witness leatherback turtles on the beach and even hatchlings, this is during the rainy season. During the dry season we can see groups of humpback whales and killer whales who come to visit the area to breed. They’re accompanied by several dolphin species who are resident in the area. The combination of wetlands, white beaches, lagoons where rivers and ocean meet, the high concentration of mammals and marine animals, make this truly a remarkable place and Gabon’s signature destinations. None of the neighboring countries offer anything which comes near in terms of beauty and biodiversity.
Loango also is known to be a great spot for sport fishing as all the fish in here seem to be XL-sizes. It has some of the biggest tarpons in the world and we can find many interesting fish such as barracuda, marlin and others. During your stay you will have the opportunity to explore the uninhabited coastline, go on safari in the savanna, stand eye to eye with a gorilla and depending on the season you can see turtles or go on a whale watching tour. We have three camps in the park: Loango Lodge, which is the main camp, Akaka Jungle Camp (used during the Dry Season and Louri River Camp (used during the Rainy Season).
Loango Lodge is the main camp and during a 3-night trip it is the only camp being used. It’s located near the Iguela Lagoon and from here we go on gorilla trekking, safari drives, nature hikes, boat safari, whale watching, fishing trips, turtle tours and beach walks. If you come during the rainy season it’s possible to see elephants and buffalos roaming the beach. You will have a mesmerising view of the lagoon and ocean finding each other, accompanied by pristine beaches and jungle. The bungalows are equipped with airco and each have a bathroom with hot running water and a terrace where you can relax.They’re suited for singles and couples. It’s possible to upgrade to a suite and have a lounge, bath and a guaranteed lagoon view from your terrace. We also have one suite with two bedrooms, ideal for families.
You will dine in our open restaurant granting you views on the Iguela Lagoon, accompanied by the stars and nothing but the sound of the waves and the jungle in the back. When you’re not on an activity you can walk around the lodge or dive into the pool. We often have visitors from mangabeys and tropical birds who come to say hello. From the lodge you will go into the forest and savannah for your gorilla trekking, safari activities or whale tours. For tours longer than 3 nights, we also use the river camp and the jungle camp.
The River camp is a small kayak-trip away from the main camp and is located inside the forest where you’ll be staying in luxury tents. It’s ideal to come here during the Rainy Season when animals such as elephants, hippos and buffalos stroll around the beach and the savannah. Enjoy your outdoor shower under the stars and our excellent bush restaurant while observing the wildlife.
Our Jungle Camp is nestled in between huge tropical trees and has a viewing platform next to the water where you can enjoy the magnificent views of the forest and baïs, home to many animals such as elephants, monkeys and many more.
On your day of arrival you’ll be staying at the Radisson in Libreville, which is our reliable partner and where you’ll be staying in a nice, secure room. In the morning, before breakfast you will be going to the airport to take the first flight to Port Gentil
For each tour, whether it’s 3 nights or 6 nights, you can choose full-day activities or half-day activities. For example: a three-night adventure would give you the chance to choose two full-day activities and two half-day activities. You are of course also free to just relax at the lodge!
Please contact us with your dates, the size of your group and how many gorilla permits you would like to have.
