Fernan Vaz Lagoon

The Fernan Vaz Lagoon takes its name from the Portuguese sailor Fernão Vaz, who discovered it in the late 15th century. The church was built in 1889, the same year as the Eiffel Tower, and appears to have some relationship. The church stands tall and elegant, the metal turning a deep red, rusting over the years.

Today, the lagoon is also home to the commendable Fernan-Vaz Gorilla Project. They have been taking care of orphaned gorillas since 2001. Located on Île Evengué-Ezango, the project operates a sanctuary and regeneration center. The four gorillas in the sanctuary, a forest enclosing forest on the island, act as conservation ambassadors to help educate domestic and international visitors about the plight of the great apes.

In addition to visiting the mission and the gorilla sanctuary, you can take a guided walk in the forest or along the beach and visit some villages. Most visitors arrive by boat on a day tour or trek the approximately 50 kilometers of deserted roads and sandy trails that link the mission to Omboué.

Location: the coast of Gabon