Oyem - Discovering Gabon

Travelling to Oyem

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Oyem, 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 Oyem 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 Oyem, 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 Oyem for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Oyem

Oyem is a city located in the northern region of Gabon, near the border with Cameroon. It is the capital of the Woleu-Ntem province and has a population of around 60,000 people. The city is known for its lush greenery, which includes dense forests and rivers, and is home to a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna. Oyem also has a diverse cultural heritage, with many different ethnic groups living in the area and practicing traditional customs and rituals. As a growing urban center, Oyem has modern amenities such as restaurants, markets, and hotels, making it a popular destination for visitors to Gabon.

What to visit in Oyem

Oyem is a city located in the northern part of Gabon. Here are some of the tourist attractions in Oyem: 1. Okano Forest National Park - Okano Forest National Park is a beautiful forest reserve that has many wildlife species like elephants, gorillas, chimpanzees, and various bird species. Visitors can enjoy hiking through the forest and seeing the beautiful wildlife.
2. Palace of the Kings of Woleu-Ntem - Located in the center of Oyem, the Palace of the Kings of Woleu-Ntem is a must-see attraction. It is a great example of traditional Gabonese architecture and visitors can learn about the history of the Woleu-Ntem Kingdom.
3. Stade d'Oyem - Stade d'Oyem is a multi-purpose stadium and home to Gabon's national football team. It is also a great place to catch a football match and enjoy the atmosphere.
4. Le Marché d'Oyem - Le Marché d'Oyem is a local market where visitors can experience the true essence of Gabon. Here, visitors can buy local crafts, food, and experience the culture of Gabon.
5. Ivindo National Park - Although not located in Oyem, Ivindo National Park is worth a visit. It features stunning waterfalls like Kongou and Mingouli and has many wildlife species like chimpanzees, gorillas, and elephants.
Overall, Oyem is a great city to visit for those who want to experience Gabon's rich culture and natural beauty.
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 Oyem.

When to go on holiday to Oyem

The best time to visit Oyem in Gabon is during the dry season, which runs from late June to early September and from mid-December to mid-February. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and there is a low chance of rain. However, it's important to note that Oyem has a tropical climate, so temperatures remain relatively high throughout the year, with an average temperature of 24-27°C (75-81°F). If you're planning a trip to Oyem, it's a good idea to check the weather forecast before you leave and to pack appropriate clothing for the season.

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

How to get to Oyem

Oyem is a city located in the north of Gabon. There are several ways you can get there: 1. By air: You can take a flight to Oyem Airport (OYE), which is located about 6km from the city center. Some airlines that operate flights to Oyem include Air Gabon, Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, and Turkish Airlines.
2. By road: You can also drive to Oyem from Libreville, the capital of Gabon. The journey takes about 9 hours. You can rent a car or take a taxi to Oyem.
3. By bus: There are also several buses that operate between Libreville and Oyem. The journey takes about 10 hours and the price depends on the bus company.
I recommend checking with a travel agency or the Gabonese embassy to make sure you have the most accurate and up-to-date information on travel to Oyem.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Oyem, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Oyem

Here are some typical foods of Oyem in Gabon: 1. Ndole - This is a leafy green stew made with peanuts and spices, commonly served with rice or plantains.
2. Poulet Nyembwe - A popular dish made with chicken thighs cooked in palm nut oil with onions, garlic, and tomatoes. The dish is usually served with fufu, a starchy, dough-like side dish made from cassava.
3. Mandoo - This is a type of dumpling filled with minced meat, vegetables, and spices, similar to Chinese or Korean dumplings.
4. Alloco - Fried plantains that are typically served as a side dish or snack.
5. Poulet DG - A special chicken dish that's usually reserved for celebrations or special occasions. Chicken is cooked with peppers, onions, carrots, and plantains in a tomato-based sauce.
6. Kondre - This is a traditional dish made from cassava or yam flour, boiled and mixed with palm oil, smoked fish, and spices.
7. Ekwang - Made from grated cocoyam leaves, this dish is usually served with a spicy stew or soup. It can also be made with beef or fish.
8. Manioc/Cassava Chips - Thinly sliced and fried cassava or manioc root, often served as a snack or appetizer.
9. Saka-Saka - A type of spinach stew made with pounded cassava leaves, peanuts, and spices. It's typically served with rice or plantains.
10. Mwambé - This is a delicious peanut butter-based soup typically made with chicken or fish, with vegetables and spices added for flavor.
You can find general info about typical foods in Gabon here.

Is Oyem an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other destinations in Africa, Oyem in Gabon can be considered relatively expensive for tourists. The cost of living in Gabon is generally higher than many other African countries, which means that travel expenses such as accommodation, transport, food, and activities can be higher than you may expect. Additionally, access to some areas and attractions may require hiring a guide, adding to the cost. However, with planning and budgeting, it is still possible to enjoy and explore Oyem while managing your expenses effectively.

Where to find accomodation in Oyem

There are a few areas in Oyem, Gabon where you can find suitable accommodation: 1. City Center: This area is the heart of Oyem and offers easy access to restaurants, cafes, markets, and attractions.
2. Quartier l'Hôpital: This area is close to the hospital and has many guesthouses and budget hotels.
3. Quartier Chateau: This area has more upscale hotels and is close to the town's cultural center.
4. Quartier Plateau: This area is on the outskirts of Oyem and offers a more natural setting with several eco-lodges and camping options. It all depends on your budget and preferences regarding your trip and visit to Oyem.
You can check hotel prices at Oyem here:
Booking.com

Is Oyem a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Oyem is generally considered a safe place for tourists in Gabon. However, as with any destination, it is important to exercise caution and stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night and in areas that are less frequented by tourists. It is always a good idea to take basic safety precautions like avoiding flashing valuables, not carrying large sums of money, and being aware of pickpockets or other petty crime. Additionally, it may be helpful to seek advice from reputable travel guides or local authorities before embarking on your trip to Oyem.
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 Oyem.

What type of travelers will enjoy Oyem the most?

Oyem in Gabon is a great destination for nature lovers and those interested in African cultures. The town is known for its beautiful landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant cultural traditions. While Oyem can be enjoyed by a variety of travelers, it is particularly popular among couples and families looking for a more relaxed trip. Some of the key attractions in Oyem include scenic hikes in the nearby national parks, tours of local villages to learn about Gabonese culture, and wildlife watching tours to see elephants, gorillas, and other exotic animals in their natural habitats. Overall, Oyem is a great destination for anyone looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in a unique cultural and natural experience.

How to get around Oyem

In Oyem, you can use different types of transportation to move around the city. The most common methods of transportation are taxis and motorcycle taxis (locally known as "moto"). You can also rent a car from one of the car rental companies located in the city. Additionally, some hotels offer shuttle services for their guests. Walking is also a viable option for shorter distances.

What to see around Oyem

Certainly! Here are some places you can visit in a day trip from Oyem: 1. Lopé National Park: With a variety of wildlife, waterfalls, and lush forests, Lopé National Park is a great place to experience Gabon's natural beauty.
2. Mikongo Conservation Center: This center provides visitors with the opportunity to learn about Gabon's ecosystems through nature walks and bird watching tours.
3. Ekwata Museum: Located in nearby Bitam, Ekwata Museum has collections of traditional Gabonese art and artifacts from ancient civilizations.
4. Lake Mbili: This small lake is a popular spot for fishing and picnicking with beautiful scenery.
5. Mitzic: A small town near Oyem, Mitzic is known for its traditional markets and street food.
6. Senegal River: A scenic spot to relax and spend a day by the river, located just a few hours drive from Oyem.
I hope this helps you plan a wonderful day trip!
For every travel information about Gabon you can click here.

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