15 Facts About Gabon Most People Get Wrong
Gabon is home to 2.3M people across 267,668 km², making it one of the most sparsely populated countries on the planet. It ranks 1st in the world for Gorillas.
Below are 15 facts about Gabon, covering history, geography, economy and culture, including several that regularly surprise people who think they already know the country.
15 Facts About Gabon
A complete overview of Gabon's history, geography, economy and culture, covering everything from population and borders to language, climate and travel.
Gabon has the world's highest density of gorillas, Lopé National Park.
88% of Gabon is covered by rainforest.
Hippos in Loango National Park are the only ones observed surfing ocean waves.
Gabon has the world's largest manganese deposit.
Gabon is located in Central Africa, Africa, with its capital city in Libreville.
The population of Gabon is approximately 2.3M, spread across 267,668 km² of territory.
Gabon has a population density of 9/km²: one of the most sparsely populated countries on Earth.
Gabon has a coastline of 885 km, giving it access to maritime trade, fishing and coastal tourism.
Gabon shares land borders with 3 countries: Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, Republic of the Congo.
The official language of Gabon is French.
Gabon uses the Central African CFA Franc (XAF) as its official currency.
Gabon gained independence in 1960, establishing itself as a sovereign nation in Central Africa.
The total GDP of Gabon is $20.5B, with a GDP per capita of $8,913, classifying it as a lower-middle-income economy.
Gabon has a tropical, dry season may–september climate, with the best time to visit being May–September.
Gabon is considered a Mid destination for travellers, with meals averaging $6–12.
Gabon's Lopé National Park contains the highest density of gorillas on Earth. Loango National Park is the only place in the world where hippos surf ocean waves, they swim out through the Atlantic surf and frolic in the waves.
🏆 Gabon World Rankings
Gabon holds several notable world rankings; here is how it compares globally:
Famous Places in Gabon
Gabon is home to several remarkable landmarks and destinations that draw visitors from around the world:
🐘 Loango National Park
The last Eden, forest elephants on beaches, surfing hippos and humpback whales offshore
🦍 Lopé National Park
UNESCO park with the highest gorilla density on Earth and ancient rainforest ecosystems
💧 Kongou Falls
Dramatic rapids and waterfalls on the Ivindo River in pristine Central African rainforest
🌊 Cap Esterias
A beautiful coastal retreat near Libreville with Atlantic beaches and mangroves
Frequently Asked Questions About Gabon
What is Gabon famous for?
Gabon's Lopé National Park contains the highest density of gorillas on Earth. Loango National Park is the only place in the world where hippos surf ocean waves, they swim out through the Atlantic surf and frolic in the waves.
What is the capital of Gabon?
The capital of Gabon is Libreville.
What is the population of Gabon?
Gabon has a population of approximately 2.3M as of 2026.
What language do they speak in Gabon?
The official language of Gabon is French.
When did Gabon become an independent country?
Gabon gained independence in 1960.
What currency does Gabon use?
Gabon uses the Central African CFA Franc (XAF).
What is the GDP of Gabon?
Gabon has a GDP of $20.5B, with a GDP per capita of $8,913.
Where is Gabon located?
Gabon is located in Central Africa, Africa.
Is Gabon safe to visit?
Safety conditions in Gabon vary by region. Always check your government's official travel advisory before visiting.
What are some fun facts about Gabon?
Gabon has the world's highest density of gorillas, Lopé National Park. 88% of Gabon is covered by rainforest. Hippos in Loango National Park are the only ones observed surfing ocean waves.
What are some interesting facts about Gabon?
88% of Gabon is covered by rainforest. Hippos in Loango National Park are the only ones observed surfing ocean waves. Gabon has the world's largest manganese deposit.
Gabon facts: what should I know?
Gabon is a country in Central Africa with a population of 2.3M. Its capital is Libreville and its official language is French. Gabon has the world's highest density of gorillas, Lopé National Park.
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