whatdo

Things To Do
in Port-Gentil

Day Trips

Tours

Attractions

Prices

Port-Gentil is the second-largest city in Gabon and serves as its economic capital, known for its oil industry. The city is situated along the coast, offering picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean. Port-Gentil has a diverse population with a mix of local Gabonese residents and expatriates working in the oil sector.

The city's vibrant culture is expressed through its music, art, and lively markets.

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On the Path of Gorillas Safari 8Days/ 7Nights

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The Eco Safari in Gabon 6Days/ 5Nights

  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Comment ça va ?" - How are you?
  • "Au revoir" - Goodbye

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
  • ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore the Natural Beauty
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the stunning Loango National Park, where you can experience diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes. Enjoy a guided nature walk to see the unique flora and fauna of the region.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby beaches to relax and soak up the sun. You can also engage in beach activities or simply enjoy the tranquil environment.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with dinner at a local seafood restaurant, savoring fresh catches of the day. Enjoy the ocean breeze as you dine with a view.

day 2
Wildlife Adventure
morning
:

Start at the Ivindo National Park, home to majestic elephants and rare species. A guided trek will help you spot wildlife while learning about conservation efforts.

afternoon
:

Have a picnic lunch in the park surrounded by nature. Afterward, explore more trails or take a scenic boat ride along the river.

evening
:

Return to Port-Gentil and enjoy a cozy dinner at a traditional Gabonese eatery. Try local dishes like Nyembwe chicken for an authentic experience.

Port-Gentil Day Trips

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches
  • Rich biodiversity and access to nature reserves
  • Growing economy with opportunities in oil and gas
  • Cultural diversity and vibrant local traditions
  • Strategic port location facilitating trade
  • Limited infrastructure and public services
  • Challenges with electricity and water supply
  • High unemployment rates
  • Difficulties in transportation accessibility
  • Potential for political instability

Best Activities in Port-Gentil

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Fishing

Experience deep-sea fishing in the waters surrounding Port-Gentil, known for its variety of fish species such as marlin, swordfish, and tuna.

Beachcombing

Enjoy the picturesque beaches in Port-Gentil for leisurely walks, shell collecting, and relaxation.

Boat Tours

Embark on guided boat tours to explore the diverse marine life and beautiful coastal scenery around Port-Gentil.

Places to Visit in Port-Gentil

Visit one of these nice places.

Pointe-Denis Beach

Offers beautiful views of the sea and the city skyline, as well as great photo opportunities at sunset.

Port-Gentil Lighthouse

Provides a panoramic view of the city and the port, ideal for capturing the cityscape in photos.

Cape Lopez

Known for its stunning coastal views and opportunities to capture the natural beauty of Gabon's coastline.

Food in Port-Gentil

Port-Gentil, located in Gabon, offers a diverse culinary experience influenced by local ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. The cuisine reflects the vibrant mix of indigenous, French, and West African flavors, resulting in a wide array of delicious dishes for locals and visitors to savor.

Port-Gentil Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Poulet Nyembwe

A popular Gabonese dish featuring chicken stewed in red palm oil with spices and served with plantains or rice. One can savor this dish at local eateries like Chez Wou or Chez Gaspard.

Must-Try!

Brochettes

Skewered and grilled meat, often marinated with spices and served with a side of spicy tomato and onion sauce. Look for these savory treats at street food vendors in the Marché Samira area.

Grilled fish with Atanga sauce

Freshly caught fish grilled to perfection and accompanied by Atanga sauce, made from cassava leaves, palm oil, and various spices. You can relish this dish at the beachside eateries along Sogara Beach.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marché Samira

This bustling market is a paradise for food enthusiasts, offering an assortment of fresh produce, spices, and street food such as brochettes, beignets, and refreshing coconut water.

Marché du Littoral

A vibrant market where visitors can explore an array of local ingredients, interact with friendly vendors, and sample street food delicacies like grilled plantains and fried fish.

Weather

The climate in Port-Gentil is characterized as a tropical rainforest climate, which is typical for much of Gabon. This region experiences high humidity levels and significant rainfall throughout the year, with a distinct wet and dry season. Rainfall is abundant, with the wet season occurring from October to April, during which the area sees the most precipitation. The months from November to January often feature heavy downpours. The dry season typically spans from June to September when rainfall decreases significantly, although some showers can still occur. Temperatures in Port-Gentil remain relatively stable year-round, averaging between 24°C (75°F) and 31°C (88°F). Due to its coastal position, temperatures can feel warmer with the humidity, and there’s little variation between day and night temperatures. Overall, the climate supports dense tropical vegetation and contributes to the biodiversity found in the region. The warm and humid conditions are conducive to various wildlife and plant species typical of rainforest ecosystems.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

In Port-Gentil, it is important to show respect for elders by using appropriate language and gestures, and by deferring to their opinions and decisions.

Greetings

Greetings are an important part of Gabonese culture. It is customary to greet people with a handshake and a smile, and to inquire about their well-being and that of their family.

Personal Space

Respecting personal space is important in Port-Gentil. People generally stand close to each other during conversations, but it's important to be aware of boundaries and not invade personal space unnecessarily.

Safety

Safety in Port-Gentil, which is the second-largest city in Gabon and an important economic center, can vary depending on several factors. Generally speaking, like many urban areas in Africa, it experiences some challenges related to crime, particularly petty crime such as pickpocketing and theft. It is advisable for visitors and residents to stay vigilant, particularly in crowded areas and markets. Traveling in groups, avoiding displaying valuable items, and being cautious when using ATMs can enhance personal safety. The presence of law enforcement is visible, especially in central areas, but response times may vary. Health safety is also a consideration; visitors should be aware of local health risks, including those related to tropical diseases. Access to healthcare facilities might not be as comprehensive as in more developed regions. While Port-Gentil is generally considered safe for both locals and tourists, exercising common sense, being aware of one's surroundings, and taking necessary precautions can contribute to a secure experience in the city.

Tipping in Port-Gentil

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not a common practice in Port-Gentil, Gabon. In most cases, a service charge is included in the bill at restaurants and hotels.

Payment

Cash is the primary means of payment in Port-Gentil, Gabon. Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it's important to carry enough cash when making purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (June to September)

The best time to visit Port-Gentil is during the dry season, from June to September. During this time, the weather is relatively cool and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Expect clear skies and lower humidity, with occasional rain showers.

Rainy Season (October to May)

The rainy season in Port-Gentil lasts from October to May. This period is characterized by heavy rainfall, high humidity, and occasional thunderstorms. Travelers should be prepared for wet conditions and potential disruptions to outdoor plans. However, the lush greenery and fewer tourists can make this an appealing time for some visitors.

Port-Gentil at Night

Nightlife in Port-Gentil is a lively mix of local culture, modern entertainment, and seaside charm. As the country's second-largest city and its economic capital, the vibrant after-dark scene is fueled by its bustling port and the energy of an international and expatriate community tied to its oil industry. From trendy bars and nightclubs to relaxed beach resorts, there's an array of options to suit different tastes. Popular spots include waterfront venues where you can enjoy music and cocktails with a view of the ocean. Live music is a staple, with local bands often performing traditional Gabonese rhythms alongside modern genres. For those interested in a more laid-back evening, the city's restaurants offer diverse culinary experiences, from fresh seafood dishes to international cuisine. Some eateries transform into more casual lounge areas as the night progresses, providing a perfect setting for late-night conversations. The local hospitality ensures that both new visitors and regular patrons feel welcomed. Night markets and street stalls add to the vibrant atmosphere, offering everything from handcrafted souvenirs to late-night snacks. Whether you're looking to dance the night away or simply soak in the local culture, nightlife in this Gabonese city promises an engaging and enjoyable experience.

Hiking in Port-Gentil

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Parc National de l'Akanda

A national park featuring mangroves and coastal trails, suitable for nature lovers and hiking.

Lac Nganga

A scenic lake surrounded by lush vegetation, ideal for hiking and exploring nature.

Monts de Cristal National Park

This park offers rugged terrain and various trails for hiking enthusiasts, along with diverse flora and fauna.

Région de la Ngounié

Home to several hiking trails, this region provides opportunities to explore Gabon's natural beauty.

Petit Loango National Park

Located along the coast, it features diverse ecosystems and trails that can be accessed for hiking.

Aiports

How to reach Port-Gentil by plane.

Libreville Leon M'ba International Airport (GVN)

The main international airport serving Libreville, the capital city of Gabon, located approximately 600 kilometers from Port-Gentil.

Franceville Mvengue International Airport (FBG)

An international airport located in Franceville, Gabon, about 750 kilometers from Port-Gentil, serving the southeastern region of the country.

Oyem Airport (OYK)

An airport located in Oyem, Gabon, approximately 450 kilometers from Port-Gentil, mainly servicing domestic flights.

Mouila Airport (MJL)

A small airport located in Mouila, Gabon, around 300 kilometers from Port-Gentil, mainly serving regional flights.

Walkability

Walkability in Port-Gentil, Gabon, is influenced by several factors including the urban layout, infrastructure, and local culture. The city is characterized by a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational areas, but pedestrian-friendly environments can be limited. The streets in some parts of Port-Gentil may lack adequate sidewalks, making it challenging for pedestrians to navigate safely, especially in busier districts. Traffic can be heavy, and road conditions can vary, which further complicates walkability. While there are certain areas where walking is more feasible, like near markets and popular attractions, overall, the city is more car-centric. Despite these challenges, Port-Gentil's coastal location offers some scenic walking routes along the waterfront, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Enhancing walkability through better infrastructure, such as improved sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, and green spaces, could significantly benefit the community's quality of life.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Fang

The Fang are the largest ethnic group in Gabon, and they inhabit regions around Port-Gentil.

Punu

The Punu people are another significant group in the area, known for their rich cultural heritage.

Obamba

The Obamba are prevalent in the coastal regions including Port-Gentil.

Bandi

The Bandi, while smaller in number, contribute to the cultural diversity of Port-Gentil.

Mouila

The Mouila group is less prevalent but has a presence in some parts of the coastal city.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is the most popular sport in Port-Gentil, played by many local clubs and enjoyed by fans throughout the region.

Rugby

Rugby has been growing in popularity in Port-Gentil, with various local teams participating in regional competitions.

Basketball

Basketball is widely played in schools and community centers, gaining a significant following among the youth.

Handball

Handball is a popular sport in Port-Gentil, often played in schools and organized leagues.

Volleyball

Volleyball is a favored recreational activity, especially among women and youth, with many local competitions held throughout the year.

Traffic

Traffic in this coastal city is characterized by a mix of vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, and trucks, as well as the presence of pedestrians, particularly in more populated areas. The road infrastructure can be limited, with narrow streets that often become congested, especially during peak hours. Public transport options, such as minivans and taxis, are common, providing residents and visitors with alternative means of getting around. The city's layout, combined with heavy rains during the wet season, can lead to challenging driving conditions, such as flooding in certain areas. Overall, navigating through the city requires patience and awareness of local driving practices, which can differ significantly from those in more developed urban areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Port-Gentil.

Hotels Apartments

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

While vegetarian and vegan options may be limited in traditional Gabonese cuisine, some restaurants in Port-Gentil offer dishes centered around locally sourced vegetables, fruits, and grains. It's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly when dining out.

Gluten-free Choices

Individuals seeking gluten-free options can enjoy grilled fish, fresh salads, and fruit platters available at many restaurants and may also find suitable choices at international dining establishments.

Healthcare

Healthcare in this coastal city is characterized by a mix of public and private services. The public healthcare system is primarily overseen by the Ministry of Health and includes several hospitals and clinics that provide basic medical services. These public facilities can face challenges such as limited resources, staff shortages, and varying levels of care quality. In addition to public services, there are private clinics and hospitals that offer more specialized services and can sometimes provide a higher standard of care, although costs may be prohibitive for many residents. The available healthcare services often focus on common health issues such as malaria, HIV/AIDS, and maternal and child health. Access to healthcare can be a concern, particularly in remote areas, and while some progress has been made in improving healthcare infrastructure, the system still struggles with issues such as equipment shortages and inadequate medical supplies. Overall, while there are efforts to enhance healthcare delivery and access, challenges remain that affect the health outcomes of the population.

Discover Gabon

Read more in our Gabon 2024 Travel Guide.

Gabon Travel Guide