Gabon Information - Lope

Lope National Park

Lope National Park offers a wonderful patchwork of open savannah scenery and dense rainforest. It is particularly famous for its large numbers of Mandrills, other primates and bird sightings. The main lodge at Lope sits in a beautiful location high above the mighty Ogooue River, with air-conditioned en-suite chalets, but the highlight of a visit to Lope is a visit to the satellite camp of Mikongo - a research station for the study and habituation of gorillas which is run by the Zoological Society of London.

Although gorilla-tracking as a specific activity has been suspended until more progress has been made with habituation, the highlight here is wonderful forest walks with knowledgeable local guides. Apart from about 50 local gorillas, other primate species which are regularly seen include Moustached, Putty-nosed and Crowned Monkey and Grey-cheeked mangebey. Other mammals that you are likely to encounter include Forest Elephants, Forest Buffalo, Red River Hogs, Red, Yellow-backed, and Blue Duiker, and perhaps Civets. There are many Leopards here too but they are hard to see. We recommend at least two nights here to maximise wildlife viewing opportunities.