Gabon. Among rivers, lagoons, whales and forest elephants

The Loxodonta cyclotis, or forest elephant, is, unfortunately, listed on the IUCN Red List, the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Over the past three decades, its population has declined significantly across Africa, except in Gabon, where 60 per cent of these so-called ‘forest gardeners’ live; they play a vital role in seed dispersal and the germination of tree species. An extraordinary place to observe them is Minkébé National Park, situated in the north and forming part of the Congo River basin; it is one of the world’s most important and biodiverse ecosystems, thanks to its dense tropical rainforests, stunning swamps and the network of rivers that flow through this rather inaccessible territory. Sightings of Loxodonta cyclotis are very common, as are close encounters with western lowland gorillas, chimpanzees, leopards and various species of antelope. Birdwatchers here will be absolutely delighted to spot the hornbill with its unmistakable yellow beak and the African grey parrot. Although it is a very remote location, excursions are organised to raise the funds needed to finance anti-poaching patrols that help prevent the ivory trade. Gabon Untouched is an NGO that works closely with local communities, organising nature tours in Moukalaba-Doudou National Park to see the gorillas, as well as in Loango National Park along Gabon’s western Atlantic coast, where the forest meets the ocean amidst lagoons and mangroves. The area is also home to nesting sea turtles and migrating whales.