Monte Alen National Park

Monte Alen National Park (Parque Nacional del Monte Alén) is the largest protected area in Equatorial Guinea and one of the oldest forests in Africa. Located in Centro Sur Province, the park covers approximately 2,000 km² of pristine lowland and montane rainforest. It is managed by the ECOFAC project, which balances conservation with community development. The park is part of the Guinean Forests of West Africa biodiversity hotspot, home to 105 species of mammal including forest elephants, gorillas, chimpanzees, and mandrills.

The park's landscape features dense rainforest, rivers including the Uoro River, and the Monte Mitra massif. The climate is tropical with heavy rainfall year-round. The park is a premier destination for wildlife-watching and jungle trekking.

By Plane

The nearest airports are Bata (BSG) for domestic flights and Malabo (SSG) for international connections. From Bata, the park entrance is about a 2-hour drive east.

By Car / Road

The park is accessible by road from Bata via Niefang. A 4WD vehicle is strongly recommended in the wet season. Local guides can be arranged at the park headquarters.

Hiking is the only way to explore the park. A local guide is essential for navigating the forest trails. Most visitors stay at the ECOFAC camp and explore on foot.

• Monte Alen forest — One of the oldest rainforests in the world, with towering trees, lianas, and an extraordinary diversity of plant life.

• Wildlife — Forest elephants, western lowland gorillas, chimpanzees, mandrills, and numerous monkey species.

• Birdlife — Over 300 bird species including the grey-necked picathartes and forest robins.

• Uoro River — A clear-flowing river through the park, with opportunities for swimming.

• Guided jungle treks to track gorillas, chimpanzees, and elephants.

• Birdwatching walks with local guides.

• Night walks to spot nocturnal wildlife including bushbabies and owls.

• Swimming in the park's rivers.

• Visiting local communities at the park boundary.

• ECOFAC camp — Basic accommodation at the park headquarters, by prior arrangement. Dormitory-style and tented options.
• Niefang guesthouses — Basic lodging in the nearest town.

• Bata (2 hours west) — The mainland's largest city with the airport and all amenities.
• Altos de Nsork National Park — Another protected rainforest area to the east.
• Evinayong — The provincial capital of Centro Sur, a transit hub.