Libreville

Libreville Market © Brian Gratwicke
Home to over half the population of Gabon, Libreville is the
business and cultural hub of the country. It was named in honour of
the freed slaves that built the port and has developed into one of
the more glamorous African capitals. It is considered a very
expensive city and travellers should come prepared for hefty price
tags. Despite this, it's a laidback place with a relaxed
atmosphere. Although not generally a picturesque city, Libreville
does have a pretty coastal strip, where many of the more expensive
shops and hotels can be found, as well as some lovely beaches.
Tourists tend to use the city as a transport hub and usually just
pass through in transit, but there are a few worthwhile attractions
for visitors.
Head to the seafront to laze by the Atlantic Ocean, visit the
Arboretum de Sybang to see thousands of species of indigenous trees
or explore the bustling markets at Mbolo and Bord De Mer. The
Musée des Arts et Traditions has a large collection of
tribal crafts and cultural artefacts, and for a living experience
of Bwiti culture visit the Ebando Association. The Louis Quarter is
the area with the best nightlife and boasts some stylish clubs,
fine dining restaurants and lively bars. The resort island of
Pointe Denis is a short boat ride from the city, another very
popular tourist excursion that has some of Gabon's best
beaches.