Mont Birougou

At the southern end of the Chaillu Massif, named after Mont Birougou, 975 metres in altitude.

Park Highlights

• A forest refuge
  Scientists think that this was part of a forest “refuge” - a forested area which persisted in the Chaillu Massif during drier periods in the past.
• At the heart of traditional Gabon
  The Massif is covered by a web of footpaths, well away from modern communications. The Bwiti religion seems to have its origins in the Massif. Buildings called Mbandja are reserved for traditional ceremonies.
• Adventure walks
  Mountains, valleys, torrents and waterfalls offer possibilities for discovery-and-adventure tourism.
• Caves
  The Bongolo caves of the region are well known. The Mouyanama caves, close by, are particularly interesting.

International status

• The least disturbed sector in a larger IUCN Critical Site, this is a key watershed area, containing the sources of the Nyanga, Lolo and Onoye rivers.
• The area around the Mouyanama mission, with its waterfalls and flora rich in Begonias, could become a sanctuary associated with the Park.

Tourist facilities

• The abandoned Protestant mission of Mouyanama could be renovated to cater for tourists. A museum and scientific research station could be created.
• Tourist walks could be set up at Mouyanama, as well as in the Park itself.