Bigourou National Park is nestled in the southern region of Gabon, within the Chaillu Massif, spanning the provinces of Ngounié and Ogooué-Lolo. This park boasts the country’s most rugged terrain and is a sanctuary of natural beauty and biodiversity.
Bigourou National Park isn’t just another nature reserve; it’s a revelation. Nestled within the rugged embrace of Gabon’s Chaillu Massif, the park sprawls across 690 square kilometers of primeval rainforest. Imagine a world sculpted from emerald canopies, where sunlight fights its way through the dense foliage, illuminating cascading waterfalls that tumble down moss-covered cliffs. Picture mighty rivers snaking through valleys, teeming with life unseen.
Where is Bigourou National Park?
Bigourou National Park (previously called Soungou-Milondo) is also known as the water tower of central-southern Gabon. It features rugged landscapes, with hills rising up to 900 meters above sea level and adorned with numerous waterfalls and rapids. Its pristine mountainous forests, home to a diverse array of wildlife, including sun-tailed monkeys, a rich bird population, and a fascinating historical background, make it a destination of both scientific and recreational interest.
The park is also home to the Niari Basin, which drains into numerous rivers, including Bouenguidi to the east, Sibi to the northeast, Lolo, Yangala, and Onoy to the north.
Bigourou National Park Has a Diverse Ecosystem
Bigourou National Park boasts an extraordinary diversity of ecosystems, ranging from swamp forests to pristine mountain forests. It serves as the source of significant rivers in the southern region of Gabon, earning its reputation as a vital water source for the country. The park is home to a remarkable and well-preserved avifauna, serving as a sanctuary for primates such as gorillas and chimpanzees, as well as other animals including buffaloes, elephants, and various small mammals, insects, reptiles, and amphibians. The canopy’s fauna diversity also reveals rare invertebrate species, indicating ongoing biological evolution and the development of plant and animal communities.
Cultural Importance
The presence of sacred forests and sanctuaries within the park attests to the ritual significance of certain sites. Traditional beliefs and practices are deeply rooted in the region, with spaces like Mambourou Mboulou and Mount Guènguè holding mystical importance. Various communities, notably the Nzebi, reside within the park, adding to its cultural diversity.
What to Do in Bigourou National Park?
Visitors to Bigourou National Park can embark on excursions to observe the sun-tailed monkeys, an endemic species to the Chaillu Massif, as well as sightings of gorillas and chimpanzees. The park also showcases the richness of African flora, including begonias, orchids, and numerous endemic plant species. Local artisans craft using the famous “Mbigou stone,” a highlight of Gabonese resources. Additionally, interactions with indigenous communities offer insights into traditional African heritage and beliefs.
How to Get to Bigourou National Park?
Access to Bigourou National Park is possible by road from Libreville, passing through the towns of Ndendé, Lebamba, and Mbigou. The park’s headquarters are located in Mbigou, overseeing its management under the authority of a conservator and supported by a team of ecoguards and technical partners.