The Trans-Gabon Railway (Le Transgabonais) is one of the most remarkable rail journeys in Africa — both for its engineering and its access to Gabon’s pristine rainforests and national parks.
🚆 Overview of the Trans-Gabon Railway
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Route: Libreville (Owendo Station) → Franceville (in southeastern Gabon)
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Distance: Approximately 670 km (416 miles)
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Purpose: Originally built in the 1970s–80s to support the export of minerals such as manganese, but it also serves passengers.
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Duration: Around 12 to 14 hours, depending on conditions
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Frequency: Typically 3 departures per week, though exact schedules can vary
🌿 Why Travellers Use It
The railway passes through dense rainforest, river valleys, and remote wilderness, giving travellers access to Lopé National Park, one of Gabon’s most famous wildlife areas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
🚉 Key Stops
| Station | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Owendo (Libreville) | Starting point |
| Lopé Station | Gateway to Lopé National Park |
| Moanda | Mining town, scenic hills |
| Franceville | End of the line, near waterfalls and chimpanzee habitats |
Lopé Station is a major draw for tourists — you can step off the train and be minutes from rainforest lodges and safari excursions.
🐘 Wildlife & Scenery
As the train cuts through undisturbed jungle, passengers may spot:
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Forest elephants
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Buffalo
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Mandrills
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River valleys and endless green canopy
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Mist-covered mountains at sunrise
It’s considered one of Africa’s most atmospheric train journeys, especially if you’re into eco-tourism.
🚆 Classes & Comfort Levels
| Class | Description | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| First Class (Sleeper) | Reclining seats or bunks | Best for tourists |
| Second Class | Seated cabins | More crowded |
| Third Class | Basic bench seating | Mostly for local travel |
It is recommended to book first class or a sleeper for comfort and security.
⚠ What to Expect (Important)
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Delays can occur due to weather or freight priority.
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Tickets must be booked in advance—ideally via a hotel or local agent.
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Food is limited aboard—bring snacks and water.
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The journey is safe, but you must keep tickets and documents ready at checkpoints.
🌍 Why It’s Special
The Trans-Gabon Railway isn’t just transportation — it’s a gateway to one of the last great untouched rainforests on Earth. It allows you to access Lopé National Park without needing a car and offers a rare chance to travel through Central Africa in a way that is both immersive and environmentally low-impact.
The Trans-Gabon Railway website is only available in French, but you can find a lot more details about how it operates from the excellent Seat61 website by viewing the page it has for Gabon: Seat61 Gabon rail guide.