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When to visit Gabon

The best time to visit Gabon is during the dry season, which runs from June to September. During this time, the weather is mild, and there is little to no rainfall, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife safaris, and beach activities. The dry season is also a great time to see whales and dolphins along Gabon's coast.

The wet season, which runs from October to May, brings heavy rains and high humidity, which can make travel and outdoor activities difficult. However, the wet season can also be a great time to visit Gabon's national parks as the lush vegetation attracts more wildlife. Additionally, birdwatching can be particularly rewarding during this time, as many migratory birds visit Gabon during the wet season.

GAB St Gabon Elephant Shutterstock
Sl Congo Ngaga Camp Gorilla Credit Andrew James

Talk to a Gabon Destination Specialist

The best time to visit Gabon

  • JAN
  • FEB
  • MAR
  • APR
  • MAY
  • JUN
  • JUL
  • AUG
  • SEP
  • OCT
  • NOV
  • DEC

January is during the rainy season in Gabon, which typically runs from October to May. During this time, Gabon experiences high levels of precipitation and high humidity. In January, the average temperature in Gabon is around 27°C (81°F), with average highs of 31°C (88°F) and lows of 24°C (75°F). In terms of rainfall, Gabon experiences an average of 250-300 mm of rainfall in January. This means that it is likely to rain on most days, and heavy downpours and thunderstorms are common. The high humidity combined with the rainfall can make it feel quite uncomfortable at times, so it is important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from mosquitoes and other insects. Despite the wet conditions, January can still be a good time to visit Gabon's national parks, as the rain can make the vegetation lush and green, and the wildlife more active. However, it is important to be prepared for the wet conditions and bring appropriate rain gear and waterproof footwear.



Safaris & Planning

Elephants

Gabon Jungle & Beach Explorer Safari

Unparalleled beauty ranges across Gabon's varying landscapes, with unexplored wilderness as far as the eye can see. Rolling savannahs and impenetrable rainforests shelter large gatherings of colobus, chimpanzee, and lowland gorillas, whilst a labyrinth of entangled mangroves frame the glistening coast forming a hotspot for migrating sea turtles, humpback whales, and hippos surfing the waves. This unforgettable expedition showcases some of the best of equatorial Africa, a surreal experience plummeting you into a lost world of idyllic wilderness. Gabon is, without a doubt, a must-see destination for everyone with a spirited interest in the natural world.

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Things to do in Gabon

Visit a National Park

10% of the land in Gabon is protected by its 13 national parks. This commitment to wildlife and natural world conservation has led to a huge number of animals present within the National Parks. These include forest elephants, buffalo, hippos and the lowland gorilla. View our comprehensive guide to wildlife in Gabon for more information.

Explore the Culture

There are over 40 different ethnic groups that call Gabon their home, each with its own unique traditions and customs. Being able to spend time with some of these groups is wonderful and you'll also want to make time to sample Gabonese food such as maboké (meat or fish cooked with spices and wrapped in banana leaves), poulet nyembwe (chicken cooked in palm nut sauce), alongside various seafood dishes..

Enjoy the Beaches

Gabon boasts some of the most unspoiled and beautiful beaches in the world. Pongara, Pointe-Denis and Cap Estérias are some of the popular spots for relaxing, swimming, and water sports.

Gorilla Trekking

Gabon is home to the critically endangered Western Lowland Gorillas. Seeing these incredible creatures in their natural habitat is a real treat so do go and browse our Gabon safaris to explore options for viewing the Gorillas.