Parc National d'Akanda

Akanda National Park is a protected area north of Libreville that spreads along bays and features extensive mangrove forests and coastal wetlands. The landscape includes river channels, tidal flats, and shallow waters that create habitat for a wide range of wildlife.

The area was protected in 2002 following scientific studies that documented the ecological value of the coastal ecosystems. This designation marked an important step in Gabon's effort to safeguard its natural habitats.

Fishing communities around the park practice traditional methods in designated areas, and these practices remain central to how local people feed themselves and earn their living. The waterways here are woven into daily routines and shape how residents relate to the natural world.

Access to the park is best by boat, with rentals available from nearby coastal settlements. Visitors should be prepared for tidal conditions and the benefit of hiring a local guide to navigate safely through the waterways.

The park holds a significant portion of Africa's protected mangrove forests and serves as a major stopover for migratory birds traveling between continents. These seasonal movements are a natural spectacle that few visitors experience firsthand, though they shape the rhythms of the place.