Many Africans and non-Africans will meet in Gabon at the Africa Cup of Nations football competition. But between games or after a game take time to visit the country.
Visit Gabon during the Africa Cup of Nations [Travel]
There are great things to see and I will give you a methodology. You can decide to follow the evolution of the various teams across the cities of the country while visiting to the sites nearby.
Remember that the competition will be held in Libreville, Franceville, Port-Gentil and Oyem.
In Oyem, you could visit Minkébé which is home to an estimated 30,000 individuals. It also has the largest population of elephants in Central Africa.
Gabon is indeed one of the few countries on the West coast of Africa to promote eco-tourism.
Tourists going to Franceville would be interested in the historical sites of the city. Saint-Hilaire Catholic mission established in 1899 is a place to look out for. This is a great place for spiritual meditation, but you will also find the mausoleum dedicated to the French Explorer Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza.
Gabon remains a paradise for nature lovers. From Franceville, you are just a few steps away from the Poubara Falls on the river Ogoué.
Port-Gentil is also a unique beach with fine white sands where you could go swimming or simply go surfing. My advice to football fans out there; do not forget your bikinis and other swim wear.
For those who decide to stay in Libreville, you will be spoiled with choice of places of attraction to visit. Simply make a choice.
If you want your stay to be essentially cultural, you can go to the Museum of Arts and Traditions of Gabon in the city or at the memorial of Léon Mba, the first president of the Gabon.
For those who want to unwind after the games, the Gabonese capital has several bars and clubs where you can party. But there are also specialized shops and villages for artisans where you can admire the expertise of artists and craftsmen of Gabon.
The upcoming AFCON will be the perfect opportunity to meet the Gabonese people. A particularly welcoming people you will take pleasure to know and enjoy!