Gabon, located on the west coast of Central Africa, is a country of lush rainforests, rich traditions, and stunning biodiversity. It offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural wonders, making it one of Africa’s hidden gems.
Gabon shares its borders with three countries. Cameroon lies to the north. The Republic of the Congo is to the east and south. Equatorial Guinea is to the northwest. Additionally, Gabon has a western coastline along the Atlantic Ocean, which gives it access to maritime trade and tourism opportunities.
Gabon’s capital is Libreville and the main International Airport is Léon Mba International Airport LBV. Gabon is one of the least populated country with 10 people per sq.km and with a total population of 2.6 million. Major Airlines are Air France, Ethiopian Airlines and Turkish Airlines.
On August 30, 2023, a bloodless military coup led by General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema ousted President Ali Bongo, ending the Bongo family’s 56 year rule. The military led Transition Council dissolved the constitution, parliament, and Constitutional Court, replacing them with a transitional charter.
Democratic elections were held on April 12, 2025, marking the first polls since the coup. General Nguema won with over 90% of the vote and officially assumed office in May 2025.
Gabon’s government is structured into Executive, Legislative, and Judicial branches, with the President serving as both Head of State and Government, appointing the Prime Minister, cabinet, and judiciary.
There are over 40 ethnic groups, with the Fang being the largest. Others include Punu, Nzebi, Myene, Teke, and the Baka Pygmy people.
Official language is French and other languages are Fang and Myene.
Gabon is famous for its wooden masks and Kota reliquary figures, central to spiritual rituals.
Music is the cultural heartbeat of Gabon, blending traditional rhythms such as the ngombi harp and balafon with modern pop and rumba.
Christianity dominates with about 80%, out of which Roman Catholicism being the largest denomination. Islam accounts for 10 to 12%, mainly among immigrants.
Major Churches
St. Mary’s Cathedral Libreville Archbishop’s seat
Cathédrale Saint Hilaire Franceville
Cathédrale Saint Jean l’Apôtre Mouila
Cathédrale Saint Charles Lwanga Oyem
Cathédrale Saint Louis Port Gentil
Cathédrale Notre Dame des Victoires Makokou
Major Mosques
Mosquée Hassan II
Mosquée Centrale Central Mosque
Gabon is a paradise for eco tourists and adventure seekers.
Loango National Park. Known as “Africa’s Last Eden,” where elephants roam beaches and hippos wade in lagoons.
Ivindo National Park. Famous for gorillas and spectacular waterfalls.
Lopé National Park. A UNESCO World Heritage site blending rainforest and savannah.
Pointe Denis Beach. A serene getaway near Libreville.
Gabon hosts a small but active Indian community, mainly engaged in trade and business, contributing to Gabon’s multicultural fabric alongside French and West African communities.
Gabon stands as a unique gem in Central Africa, a nation where lush rainforests meet pristine coastlines, and cultural heritage blends seamlessly with modern aspirations. From its rich biodiversity and world class national parks to its vibrant traditions and spiritual landmarks, Gabon offers an experience that is both authentic and awe inspiring.
Despite political transitions and evolving democratic structures, the country continues to embrace stability and progress, making it a promising destination for eco tourism, cultural exploration, and investment. Truly, Gabon lives up to its title as “Africa’s Last Eden,” inviting the world to discover its natural beauty and diverse cultural tapestry.