Okondja - Discovering Gabon

Travelling to Okondja

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

General info for a trip to Okondja

Okondja is a town situated in the southeast of Gabon, in the province of Haut-Ogooué. The town has a population of around 10,000 people and is known for its picturesque landscapes and wildlife, including elephants, gorillas, and antelopes. Okondja is surrounded by lush forests and is a popular destination for travelers looking to explore Gabon's natural beauty. The town is easily accessible by road and is located approximately 350 km southeast of the country's capital, Libreville.

What to visit in Okondja

Okondja is a small town located in the Ngounié province of Gabon. The town is surrounded by lush rainforests and is a popular destination for eco-tourism. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Okondja include: 1. Lopé National Park: This national park is located just a few hours south of Okondja and is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including gorillas, elephants, chimpanzees, and leopards. Visitors can take guided walks through the park to see the animals and learn about the local flora and fauna.
2. Ngounié River: The Ngounié River runs through Okondja and is a popular spot for fishing and boating. Visitors can rent canoes or kayaks and explore the river on their own, or take a guided tour with a local expert.
3. Minkébé National Park: Located about 4 hours north of Okondja, Minkébé National Park is home to a large population of forest elephants and other endangered species like gorillas and pangolins. Visitors can take guided walks through the park and learn about the conservation efforts that are being undertaken to protect these animals.
4. Mount Bengoué: This mountain is located just outside of Okondja and is a popular destination for hiking and birdwatching. The mountain is home to a variety of bird species, including the rare Black-collared lovebird.
5. Ivindo National Park: While located a bit further away from Okondja (about 8 hours north), Ivindo National Park is too good to miss out on. Home to the country's tallest waterfall (Kongou Falls) and a variety of primates, birds, and other wildlife, this place is an adventurer's paradise. Overall, Okondja is a great place for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Visitors can explore the rainforest and wilderness and get an up close and personal experience with the local wildlife.
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 Okondja.

When to go on holiday to Okondja

The best time to go on holiday to Okondja (Gabon) is during the dry season, which runs from June to September. During this time, the weather is generally pleasant with lower humidity levels, which makes it ideal for outdoor activities such as gorilla trekking and hiking. However, do keep in mind that since Gabon is close to the equator, there can still be occasional rain showers. It is also important to note that during the dry season, popular tourist spots can get quite crowded, so it's important to book in advance.

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

How to get to Okondja

There are a few ways to get to Okondja, Gabon: 1. By Air: You can take a flight to the nearest airport which is the Koulamoutou Airport (KMU) and then take a taxi or a bus to reach Okondja which is approximately 2.5 hours away.
2. By Road: You can take a taxi or a bus from Libreville, the capital city of Gabon to reach Okondja. The travel time by road is around 11 hours.
3. By Train: Another option is to take a train from Libreville to Franceville and then take a taxi or a bus to reach Okondja. However, this option may be time-consuming and not as comfortable as the other options.
Before travelling to Okondja, it is recommended to check the current travel restrictions and entry requirements in Gabon due to COVID-19. It is also advised to pack appropriate clothing, insect repellent, and other essentials for your trip.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Okondja, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Okondja

Okondja is a small town in the Ngounié province of Gabon. The traditional cuisine of Okondja is a blend of flavors from West and Central Africa. Here are some typical foods of Okondja: 1. Plantains: Plantains are a staple food in Okondja. They are fried or mashed and can be eaten as a side dish or as a main course.
2. Cassava: Cassava is a root vegetable that is grated and used to make fufu or cassava flour. It is typically served with soup.
3. Peanut Butter Soup: This soup is made from a combination of peanut butter, tomatoes, onions, and spices. It is served with rice or fufu.
4. Poulet D-Garri: Poulet D-Garri is a popular dish in Okondja made from chicken, green onions, tomatoes, and garri (a cassava-based flour). 5. Mbemba: Mbemba is a dish that is made from cassava leaves and ground peanuts. It is usually served with rice or fufu.
6. Boulou: Boulou is a sweet snack made from a mixture of plantains and peanuts. It is usually fried and served with honey or sugar.
7. Brochettes: Brochettes are skewered meat that is grilled over an open flame. In Okondja, the most popular meat used for brochettes is beef or chicken.
8. Maboké: Maboké is a dish made from fish, onions, tomatoes, and palm oil. It is typically served with fufu or rice. Overall, the cuisine of Okondja is diverse and flavorful, with a mix of West and Central African flavors.
You can find general info about typical foods in Gabon here.

Is Okondja an expensive destination for tourists?

Okondja (Gabon) is a moderately expensive destination for tourists. Prices for accommodation, food, and activities can be higher than in other parts of Gabon. However, if you are a budget-conscious traveler, you can still find affordable options such as guesthouses, street food, and free outdoor activities in the surrounding forests and national parks. It is recommended to plan your trip in advance and research the prices of different options to fit your budget. Also, make sure to bring enough cash with you since credit cards are not widely accepted in the area.

Where to find accomodation in Okondja

Okondja is a small town located in the central-eastern part of Gabon, surrounded by beautiful natural parks and reserves. There are a few options for accommodation in the town itself, but I would recommend looking for options in the following areas: 1. National Park of Minkébé: This park is located about 30 km north of Okondja and is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, gorillas, and antelopes. There are a few lodges near the park entrance that offer guided tours and comfortable accommodation.
2. Ivindo National Park: This park is located about 120 km east of Okondja and is one of the most beautiful and biodiverse parks in Gabon. There are a few lodges and guesthouses in nearby towns like Makokou and Ipassa that offer access to the park.
3. Lopé National Park: This park is located about 200 km southwest of Okondja and is known for its stunning landscapes and wildlife, including forest elephants and chimpanzees. There are a few lodges and guesthouses in the nearby town of Kougouleu that offer access to the park.
Overall, I would recommend staying in one of the lodges or guesthouses located near the national parks, as they offer the best access to the natural wonders of Gabon. However, if you prefer to stay in Okondja itself, there are a few options available, including guesthouses and small hotels.
You can check hotel prices at Okondja here:
Booking.com

Is Okondja a safe destination for tourists?

Overall, Okondja, Gabon is considered a safe place for tourists but it's always best to exercise caution and common sense while traveling. As with any destination, it is important to stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially when visiting unfamiliar areas. You can make your trip safer by taking some precautions such as avoiding sketchy areas, monitoring local news, and following the advice of local authorities. It's also a good idea to have travel insurance in case of any unforeseen incidents or emergencies.
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 Okondja.

What type of travelers will enjoy Okondja the most?

Okondja, Gabon is generally known for its nature attractions, wildlife, bird watching, and outdoor adventure activities such as hiking and camping. Therefore, it is an ideal destination for families, couples and nature lovers. There are hiking trails around the town and nearby forest reserves, and you can spot some of Africa's most endangered species such as Western Lowland Gorilla, Chimpanzees and forest elephants.
For beach and nightlife activities, Okondja may not be the best option, but the town's natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere make it an excellent option for those travelers who are looking for a more relaxed and nature-focused holiday.

How to get around Okondja

In Okondja, the most common mode of transportation is by bush taxi or shared taxi. These are usually minivans that operate on set routes and pickup and drop off passengers along the way. There are also motorcycle taxis known as "motos" which are faster and more convenient but can be dangerous. It is also possible to rent a car if you prefer to have a private ride to move around.

What to see around Okondja

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Okondja, Gabon: 1. Minkébé National Park: This is a beautiful park that is home to a diverse range of wildlife including gorillas and elephants.
2. Lopé National Park: This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers some amazing opportunities for viewing wildlife and hiking.
3. Lake Abanga: This is a stunning lake that is surrounded by lush forests, and is perfect for a day of boating or fishing.
4. Ekwata Cultural Center: This center is dedicated to celebrating and preserving Gabonese culture, and offers a range of interesting exhibits and cultural performances.
5. Moukalaba-Doudou National Park: This is a breathtaking park that is home to a wide range of wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and gorillas.
6. Impéné Reserve: This reserve is known for its stunning scenery and diverse wildlife, and is a great place to go on a guided hike or wildlife viewing tour.
7. Mboro: This is a small town that is known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere, and is perfect for a day trip to escape the hustle and bustle of Okondja.
For every travel information about Gabon you can click here.

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