Ivindo National Park National Park

Ivindo National Park protects a large tract of lowland rainforest centered on the Ivindo River basin in eastern-central Gabon, preserving intact river corridors and high biodiversity.

The park’s best-known attraction is Kongou Falls, a powerful cascade on the Ivindo River; the park also hosts populations of forest elephants, great apes and many bird species. Scientific facilities such as research stations support long-term biodiversity monitoring and ecological study.

Ivindo was designated to protect the riverine rainforests and the outstanding biological values of the basin and remains an important area for conservation and field research.

The park sits in Ogooué-Ivindo Province in central-eastern Gabon and covers remote rainforest upstream from the lowland coastal regions.

• Major waterfall: Kongou Falls is a high-volume cataract on the Ivindo River and a key geographical landmark for visitors and researchers.

What to See#

• Kongou Falls: Kongou Falls, a major waterfall on the Ivindo River and one of the park’s most prominent natural features.
• Ipassa research station: Ipassa research station and other scientific facilities used for biodiversity monitoring in the Ivindo basin.

Access usually begins in Makokou (the nearest town with an airstrip). From Makokou, visitors travel by river boat or 4x4 to park access points. Organized tours and eco-lodges arrange transfers; independent travel is difficult due to river and road conditions.

• Visit the Kongou Falls section during the dry season for safer viewing and river navigation.
• Hire guides from Makokou-local guides know river conditions and the best vantage points for wildlife and waterfalls.
• Bring a waterproof bag and expect humidity; camera equipment needs protection when approaching cascades.