Ivindo

Ivindo is a river in Gabon, a major tributary of the Ogooué River in central Africa. The Ivindo drains part of the northeastern and central regions of the country and is part of the Congo Basin rainforest watershed. Its basin supports a range of freshwater and terrestrial habitats and contributes to the region’s ecological diversity.

A notable feature along the Ivindo is Kongou Falls, a series of cascades on the river that attract visitors and researchers. The falls lie within Ivindo National Park, a protected area that preserves a substantial portion of the Ivindo River valley and the surrounding rainforest. The park is one of Gabon’s most biodiverse protected areas and serves as a hub for conservation and scientific study.

Ivindo National Park and the river’s surrounding landscapes are located largely in Gabon’s northeastern territory. The area is characterized by dense tropical forest, high rainfall, and a relatively low population density, with most access limited to guided tours and research visits. Local communities in the broader Ivindo basin rely on forest resources and fishing, maintaining a connection to the river and its ecosystems.

Conservation and management efforts focus on protecting the riverine and forest habitats from threats such as logging, mining activity, and unsustainable hunting. The park and its programs promote biodiversity protection, research, and sustainable tourism, aiming to balance ecological integrity with the needs and rights of local communities.