Libreville - Discovering Gabon

Travelling to Libreville

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Libreville, a pretty good destination in Gabon (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Libreville and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Libreville, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Gabon, here's everything to know about Libreville for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Libreville

Libreville is the capital and largest city of Gabon, located on the east coast of Africa. It is situated near the equator, on the coast of the Gulf of Guinea. With a population of approximately 700,000 inhabitants, Libreville is a vibrant and bustling city with a rich cultural heritage. It is known for its tropical climate, beautiful beaches, diverse wildlife, and vibrant music scene. The city is also home to a number of museums, galleries, and cultural centers, offering visitors a glimpse into the history and culture of Gabon.

What to visit in Libreville

Sure, here are some of the tourist attractions in Libreville, Gabon: 1. National Museum of Arts and Traditions: This museum showcases various traditional arts and crafts of Gabon, including masks, sculptures, textiles, and traditional musical instruments. It provides an excellent insight into the country's culture and history.
2. Palais Presidentiel: This is the official residence of the President of Gabon. Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace and admire its stunning architecture and design. The palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens, fountains, and statues.
3. Pointe Denis Beach: This pristine beach is located on the outskirts of Libreville. It's an ideal place to relax, swim, and soak up the sun. There are also several beach cafes and restaurants nearby where you can enjoy local cuisine.
4. L'Eglise St-Michel: This Catholic church is one of the most prominent landmarks in Libreville. It's known for its stunning stained glass windows, intricate woodwork, and beautiful architecture.
5. Marche Mont-Bouet: This vibrant market is a great place to shop for souvenirs, local handicrafts, and fresh produce. You can browse through the various stalls and interact with the friendly vendors to get a taste of Gabonese life.
6. Akanda National Park: This park is located just outside the city and offers a chance to spot some of Gabon's unique wildlife, including elephants, gorillas, and chimpanzees. It's also a great place for birdwatching and hiking.
7. Institut Francais: This cultural center hosts various events, exhibitions, and performances related to art, music, film, and theater. It's a great place to immerse yourself in Gabonese culture and connect with the locals.
8. Stade d'Angondje: This modern sports stadium is home to Gabon's national football team and also hosts various concerts and events throughout the year. It's a must-visit for sports fans and music lovers.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Gabon, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Libreville.

When to go on holiday to Libreville

The best time to visit Libreville, Gabon is during the dry season which runs from May to September. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny with little to no rainfall. The wet season in Libreville runs from October to April, with heavy rainfall and high humidity which can make travel and outdoor activities difficult. However, if you are interested in seeing wildlife, the wet season may be a better time to visit as it is the breeding season for certain animals.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Libreville

There are several ways to get to Libreville, the capital city of Gabon. Here are some options: 1. Flight: The easiest and fastest way to get to Libreville is by air. Many airlines operate daily flights to Libreville International Airport from major cities around the world.
2. Ferry: If you are in neighboring countries like Cameroon, you can take a ferry to Libreville. The ferry service is available from Douala.
3. Road: You can also get to Libreville by road from neighboring countries, but the journey is long and can sometimes be challenging because of the conditions of some of the roads.
When planning your trip, make sure to check visa requirements, travel advisories, and any other necessary information.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Libreville, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Libreville

Here are some typical foods you may find in Libreville, Gabon: 1. Poulet Nyembwe - This is a popular dish in Gabon made with chicken cooked in a sauce made with palm kernel oil, onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and chili peppers.
2. Fang Madesu - This dish is made with cassava leaves and ground peanuts, which are cooked with meat or fish. It's usually served with fufu or steamed rice.
3. Saka Saka - This is a popular dish made from cassava leaves, which are finely chopped and then cooked with meat or fish. It's often served with fufu.
4. Ekwang - This is a traditional dish made with grated cocoyam leaves and palm oil, which are mixed with various spices and fish or meat. It's usually steamed in banana leaves.
5. Kondre - This is a dish made with a type of underground vegetable called cassava yam that's boiled, mashed, and then mixed with different ingredients depending on the recipe. It's often served with meat or fish.
6. Kamba - This is a popular dish made with smoked and dried fish that's mixed with okra and cooked in a tomato-based sauce.
Hope this helps! Let me know if you need any further information.
You can find general info about typical foods in Gabon here.

Is Libreville an expensive destination for tourists?

Yes, Libreville is considered to be an expensive destination for tourists. The cost of living in Gabon is relatively high, and this is reflected in the prices of food, accommodation, transport, and other tourist services. For example, a meal at a mid-range restaurant can cost around $20-30 USD, and a night at a decent hotel can cost $100 USD or more. Additionally, transportation can be expensive due to limited options, particularly outside of the capital city.
It's always a good idea to research and budget accordingly before traveling to any destination, and Gabon is no exception. However, it's also worth noting that the country has many unique attractions and experiences that can make it a worthwhile destination for those willing to spend the money.

Where to find accomodation in Libreville

If you are planning to visit Libreville, the areas where it is best to find accommodation are: - Akebe: This is a residential area located about 6 km from the city center. It is peaceful and quiet, and you can find a range of accommodation options, from budget hotels to luxury resorts.
- Louis: Louis is a lively neighborhood located in the heart of the city. It is close to the main attractions and nightlife spots. You can find a range of hotels, guesthouses, and apartments to suit your budget and preferences.
- Hauts de Gué-Gué: This is another residential area located on the outskirts of Libreville. It is a bit far from the city center, but if you are looking for a peaceful and green environment, this is an excellent choice. You can find a range of accommodation options, from budget hotels to upscale resorts.
You can check hotel prices at Libreville here:
Booking.com

Is Libreville a safe destination for tourists?

Libreville is considered a relatively safe place for tourists, but like any city, there are risks and precautions that should be taken. Petty crime such as pickpocketing and snatch and grab theft can occur, especially in crowded areas and public transportation. It is important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid carrying valuable items with you when possible.
It is also recommended that tourists do not travel alone at night and avoid walking in poorly lit or isolated areas. Additionally, it is advised to use a reputable taxi company or arrange transportation in advance rather than flagging down random taxis on the street.
Overall, common sense and awareness can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip in Libreville.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Gabon here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Libreville.

What type of travelers will enjoy Libreville the most?

Libreville, the capital city of Gabon, has a little something to offer for everyone. However, it largely depends on the interests and priorities of the travelers. Here are some tips on what types of travelers might enjoy the most Libreville: - Couples: Libreville can be an excellent destination for couples who are looking for a romantic and relaxing vacation. With its stunning beaches, beautiful landscapes, and luxurious resorts, Libreville is a perfect destination for couples who want to enjoy a peaceful and intimate time together.
- Young people looking for fun: Libreville offers a vibrant nightlife scene with many bars, clubs, and restaurants catering to young people looking for fun. The city has a lively atmosphere, and some of the best options for entertainment are located in the center of the city.
- Families: Families who opt to visit Libreville can enjoy a range of activities together. With the beaches and lush vegetation, there will be plenty of relaxation and exploration opportunities for families. For example, parents and kids can go to the famous National Park of Gabon or take a trip to Loango where they can observe gorillas and other species.
In summary, Libreville can be an enjoyable destination for different types of travelers depending on their preferences and interests - couples for relaxation, young people for partying, and families for adventure.

How to get around Libreville

In Libreville, there are different transportation options to move around the city such as taxis, buses, and shared minivans known as "Mass Transit". Taxis are convenient and readily available, but it's better to negotiate the fare before getting in. Buses and Mass Transit are cheaper options but can be crowded and not always reliable, depending on the route and time of day. It's also possible to rent a car or a motorbike, but it's recommended for experienced drivers only, as road conditions can be challenging.

What to see around Libreville

There are several nice places to visit in a day trip from Libreville. Here are some of the best options: 1. Akanda National Park: This park is located just outside Libreville and is home to a variety of animals, including elephants, monkeys, and hippos. Visitors can go on guided walks or boat tours to see the wildlife.
2. Pointe-Denis Beach: This beach is located about 30 minutes from Libreville and is a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing.
3. Mounana: This town is located about four hours from Libreville and is known for its uranium mines. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mines and learn about the history of the town.
4. Lambarene: This town is located about two hours from Libreville and is home to the Albert Schweitzer Hospital. Visitors can tour the hospital and learn about the life and work of Albert Schweitzer.
5. Pongara National Park: This park is located about 40 minutes from Libreville and is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, crocodiles, and several species of birds. Visitors can go on guided walks or boat tours to see the animals.
6. Lake Oguemoue: This lake is located about three hours from Libreville and is known for its clear water and beautiful scenery. Visitors can swim, fish, or walk along the shore.
For every travel information about Gabon you can click here.

Wild Trips is the Wikipedia of travel: in the unfortunate case you find an error, please write to us to correct it... Thank you!
Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: https://www.facebook.com/wildtrips.