Ivindo National Park

Introducing Ivindo National Park

Langoué Bai in the dense, tropical Ivindo National Park is perhaps the pièce de résistance of all the Gabonese ecodestinations, presenting the rare opportunity to view forest animals undisturbed in their own environment. The Bai, a Pygmy word for a marshy clearing in the forest, serves as a source of minerals for the animals and acts as a magnet for large numbers of forest elephants, western lowland gorillas, sitatunga, buffalo, monkeys and rare bird species. A WCS-built research station and ecocamp near the clearing allow visitors to easily view the wildlife.

All-inclusive stays at the stunning, ecologically friendly base camp, designed to reduce human impact on the environment (composting toilets, solar energy, no chemicals), are pricey at US$315 per night, but worth it.

Arrangements to get to the Bai must be made well in advance through travel agents in Libreville. An intensive two- to three-hour hike with pack into the campsite is required. Prepare to sweat. And then prepare to be amazed.

Last updated: Mar 2, 2009