Gabon Forest Masterclass
from ZAR 10 300.00/USD 515.50
Learn to travel like a Popsicle on a captivating 7-day journey beginning in Libreville and venturing into the heart of Mekambo’s lush forest, in search of elephants, before returning to Libreville. Experience Gabon’s culture, nature, and hospitality first hand.
Travel Dates: July 2025



Highlights
- Travel to Mekambo by bus, indulging in local delicacies and snacks while soaking in the picturesque landscapes.
- Delve into the enchanting forest of Mekambo, where elephants await.
- Conclude your journey with an overnight bus ride back to Libreville, relishing the last supper together and reflecting on the rich experiences and friendships made along the way.
Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Libreville
- Arrive at Léon-Mba International Airport.
- Meet fellow travellers and find accommodation.
- Free time to explore or relax.
- Group dinner and get to know your fellow travellers

Day 2: Journey to Mekambo
- Early morning departure to the bus station
- Full-day bus journey to Mekambo, with arrival and check-in at Mekambo accommodation

Day 3-4: Mekambo Forest Experience
- Free time for self-guided exploration or relaxation
- Find a forest guide and host
- Take a walk in the forest in hopes of spotting elephants

Day 5:Return to Libreville
- Afternoon departure for overnight bus to Libreville
- Departure preparation and forest clean-up

Day 6: Libreville at Leisure
- Farewell dinner at a local restaurant
- Morning arrival and check-in at Libreville accommodation
- Free day to explore at your own pace

Day 7: Departure
- Transfer to the airport for departure flights
- Breakfast and farewells
Pricing
We make it easier to book by letting you pay over time without any interest or extra fees. Pay a 50 % deposit to secure your seat and pay the outstanding balance in 2 installments.
Full Price
ZAR 10 300.00/USD 515.50 per person
Deposit Price
ZAR 5 150.00/USD 257.75 per person
Price Inclusions
- Trip Planning, Labour, Guiding & Hosting Fees
- Forest Cabin Accommodation (2 nights)
- Forest Cabin Grocery Contribution
Price Exclusions
- Flights to/from Libreville
- Local transportation
- Visa costs
- Accommodation in Libreville (3 nights)
- Meals outside of the forest stay
- Personal expenses and gratuities
- Bedding for forest cabin
Booking Terms
You must pay the trip hosting and labor fees outlined in the booking inclusions section below to secure your seat. You can reserve a seat by paying the deposit using the links above.
Deposit Payment:
50 % of the total price: ZAR 5 150.00 // USD 257.50
Due Sunday 31 March 2025
First Installment
25 % of the total price: ZAR 2 575.00 // USD 128,75
Due on Monday 31 April 2025
Final Installment
25 % of the total price: ZAR 2 575.00 // USD 128,75
Due Wednesday 30 May 2025
Cancellation Terms
- The deposit payment is non-refundable regardless of the cancellation period.
- All refunds will be made back into the account the payment was made and may take between 7 – 14 days to reflect in the account.
If you need to cancel your booking, the following cancellation fees apply based on the notice period before the trip:
- Cancellations made on the day of departure: 100% of the total installment amount paid
- Cancellations made more than 60 days before the trip: No cancellation fee
- Cancellations made 59-22 days before the trip: 25% of the total installment amount paid
- Cancellations made 21-8 days before the trip: 30% of the total installment amount paid
- Cancellations made 7-1 days before the trip: 90% of the total installment amount paid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Trip Details
When is this trip taking place?
The trip is scheduled for July 2025. The exact dates will be confirmed in March 2025.
How much should I budget for this trip?
You can budget between R 7 000.00 – R 10 000.00 excluding international flights to the starting location. See the price excludes section for the items you need to budget.
The amount range above estimates the expenses you will be expected to cover during the trip. These costs are your responsibility.
What is the trip planning and hosting fee?
This fee covers trip organization, local host coordination, guided activities, and overall experience management and does not include items on the price exclusion list.
What are the bedding arrangements at the forest cabin?
Participants must bring their own bedding (pillows, blankets, sleeping bags). A tent is recommended in case of rain.
Payments & Bookings
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept PayPal, Apple Pay, Visa, Debit Cards, Instant Bank Transfer (South Africa), and Snapscan (South Africa).
Can I make installment payments?
Yes, we offer a flexible payment plan as detailed in the Payment Schedule section.
Good To Know
Minimum number of people
6 people
Maximum number of people
10 people
Accommodation during the trip
Cabin; Motel
Transportation during the trip
Public Transport
Languages spoken during trip
French; English
Starting and Ending City
Libreville, Gabon
Practical Information
Do I need a visa to enter Gabon?
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Check with your nearest Gabon embassy or consulate for current information.
Is travel insurance required?
While not mandatory, we highly recommend travel insurance to cover cancellations, medical emergencies, and other unforeseen events.
How do we get local currency?
You can exchange money at the airport or use Visa cards at select establishments. ATMs are available in Libreville, but not in rural areas. Cash is widely accepted and recommended outside the capital.
Where can I find flight information to Libreville?
Direct flights to Libreville are available through Ethiopian Airways, Rwandair, Emirates, and Turkish Airlines. We recommend booking changeable tickets to accommodate potential trip date adjustments.
Is this trip only open to South Africans?
No, we welcome participants from all nationalities.
What happens after I make my final payment?
A month before the trip, you’ll receive an email with final preparations, packing lists, and contact details.
Gabonese Culture and What to Expect
Gabon is known for its rich biodiversity and commitment to conservation. The country boasts a diverse culture influenced by French colonization and over 40 ethnic groups. Here’s what you can expect:
Climate: Expect a hot, humid climate with potential for rain, especially in the forest.
Language: French is widely spoken, but you’ll also hear local languages like Fang and Myene.
Cuisine: Try local dishes like nyembwe (chicken in palm nut sauce) and manioc-based foods.
Etiquette: Greetings are important. A handshake with the right hand is common.
Nature: Gabon is home to lowland gorillas, forest elephants, and over 700 bird species.
Packing List
Essential items for your Gabon Forest Masterclass:
- Cash in small denominations (XAF)
- Passport and visa documents
- Light, breathable clothing (long sleeves and pants for forest protection)
- Sturdy, waterproof hiking shoes
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Sleeping bag and pillow (for forest cabin stay)
- Insect repellent and sunscreen
- Reusable water bottle
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Basic first aid kit
- Power bank and appropriate adapters
Trip Safety & Policies
Indemnity Clause: This trip is for persons over the age of 18. Participants join this Gabon Forest Masterclass at their own risk. The organizers, guides, and associated parties are not liable for any injuries, accidents, or bodily harm that may occur during the trip.
Participants are also responsible for the safety and security of their personal belongings. Note: Elephant sightings are not guaranteed.
By joining, participants acknowledge the inherent risks associated with outdoor activities and agree to indemnify and hold harmless the organizers against any claims arising from participation.
Force Majeure: In the event of unforeseen circumstances beyond our control, such as natural disasters, political unrest, pandemics, or other force majeure events, the trip may be postponed or canceled.
The organizers are not responsible for any costs incurred by participants due to such cancellations or changes. We will endeavor to communicate any changes as early as possible and explore alternatives where feasible.