Gabon
Gabon might not be the first country that pops up when you are searching for a good beach holiday. And Gabon is certainly not a Zanzibar alternative. Having said this, Gabon has the greatest beaches, so remote, so pristine, you cannot find them anywhere else on earth. But they are not for the lighthearted. Only adventurous people, and die-hard fishermen can truly enjoy them. But if you are looking for remoteness and romance, Gabon is the place to go to. Especially if you want to combine it with a great safari.
Pt. St. Catherine Beachcamp
This little camp is so remote that the only footprints in the sand besides your own are those left by scurrying crabs. Pt. St. Catherine has five thatched tents with classic wooden flooring and ensuite bathrooms. The camp is very basic but the area is fantastic and cannot be found anywhere else. The beach is lined by dense mangrove forests sheltering a whole range of wildlife and smaller mammals. This camp is a true haven for fishermen and the fabulous cooks organize private beach barbeques with chilled grape on request.
Pongara Lodge
On the ocean in Pongara National Park, Pongara Lodge is situated right at the beach. Its a great place to stay to relax and to enjoy Gabons fabulous wildlife. There are six wooden air-conditioned bungalows equipped with ensuite bathrooms, a terrace and the lodge site has a friendly restaurant/bar. The broad fine sand beach is the main area of activities: kitesurfing and big game fishing are possible. Pongara National Park houses gorillas, chimpanzees, forest elephants, panthers and more. And most importantly, Pongarra is only one hour away from Libreville. Pongara is a great start or end of your exiting journey through Gabon.
Hotel Tropicana
This hotel might be really out of place in this portfolio of hotels. Reason why we have chosen this locally run, charming beach hotel is their stunning location and exceptionally good food and atmosphere - and ideally located towards the airport. Only those who are well travelled within Africa can consider staying here as rooms are not top notch. Rooms are airconditioned but poorly decorated, service is excellent though. Dont expect even a three star quality but you can only say that you have been in Gabon if you have stayed here for at least a night. It is the best value for money for your start or finish of your Gabon safari.
