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Lope National Park: A Gabonese Jewel

Explore Gabon's Lope National Park: Where ancient history meets incredible biodiversity in a stunning rainforest-savanna landscape.

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Lope National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in central Gabon, offers a unique blend of rainforest and savanna ecosystems, harboring diverse wildlife and ancient petroglyphs. It's a prime destination for primate viewing, especially mandrills, and exploring Gabon's natural and cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Lope National Park Entrance

  • VJQ2+HPW, Boléko, GA

Local tips

  • Visit during the dry season (June to September) for optimal wildlife viewing and easier trail navigation.
  • Consider joining a guided tour for expert insights and enhanced wildlife spotting opportunities.
  • Pack appropriate clothing and gear, including hiking boots, long pants, insect repellent, and rain gear.
  • Book accommodations and transportation in advance, as options within and around the park are limited.
  • Respect the local culture and environment by following park regulations and guidelines.
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Getting There

  • Train

    The most common way to reach Lope National Park is by taking the Trans-Gabon Railway from Libreville. The train departs from Owendo Station, about 9km south of downtown Libreville. Taxis are readily available in Libreville to get to the train station. The train journey to Lope takes approximately 5-7 hours. Check the SETRAG website or Facebook page for the most up-to-date schedules. First-class tickets are recommended for a more comfortable experience. Consider bringing your own snacks and drinks. Upon arrival at Lope Station, arrange transportation to your accommodation or the park entrance. Train tickets from Libreville to Lopé cost approximately CFA 15,000 - CFA 30,000 in first class. A taxi from downtown Libreville to Owendo Station will cost around CFA 3,000 - CFA 5,000.

  • Road

    Alternatively, you can reach Lope National Park by road, although this option can be more challenging. A 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended, especially during the wet season. The journey from Libreville to Lope takes approximately 5-6 hours. Roads can be slow and sometimes impassable during the wet season. It is advisable to arrange transfers with a tour operator. Renting a 4x4 in Libreville costs approximately CFA 50,000 - CFA 100,000 per day. Fuel costs for the journey to Lope and back will be around CFA 20,000 - CFA 30,000. Expect to pay approximately CFA 5,000 - CFA 10,000 for parking per day.

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Discover more about Lope National Park Entrance

Lope National Park, located in the heart of Gabon, is a captivating destination renowned for its exceptional biodiversity and historical significance. Covering approximately 4,912 square kilometers, the park showcases a remarkable mosaic of dense tropical rainforests and relict savanna grasslands, a landscape shaped since the last Ice Age. This unique environment fosters an extraordinary array of plant and animal life, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and researchers alike. The park's diverse ecosystems provide refuge for a wide variety of species. It is home to significant populations of primates, including mandrills, chimpanzees, and western lowland gorillas. Lope is considered one of the most important regions in Central Africa for primate conservation. Other notable inhabitants include forest elephants, forest buffalo, leopards, and various monkey species. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the park's rich avian diversity, with over 400 recorded species. Beyond its natural wonders, Lope National Park boasts a rich cultural heritage. Archaeological discoveries within the park reveal evidence of human occupation dating back 400,000 years. The Ogooué River valley, which borders the park, is home to numerous Stone Age and Iron Age sites, including remarkable petroglyphs that offer insights into the region's ancient past. In recognition of its outstanding universal value, Lope National Park was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007. The park's unique combination of natural and cultural attributes makes it a truly exceptional destination, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in Gabon's rich biodiversity and explore its fascinating history.

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