Monte Alén National Park: Equatorial Guinea's great rainforest

Why visit Monte Alén

The park protects lowland and mountain forest along the Monte Alén range, cut by the Wele river and its tributaries. Forest elephants, gorillas, chimpanzees, mandrills, many monkey species, crocodiles and hundreds of bird species live here. You are far more likely to hear animals than see them, but the forest itself, with its giant trees, butterflies and rushing water, is the experience.

What to do

Guided forest walks are the heart of a visit, following trails to rivers, waterfalls and viewpoints. The area around the old park lodge and the **Lago Atoc** has been the traditional starting point, and community guides from nearby villages know the forest well. Birdwatchers come for hornbills, turacos and forest specialists. Bring patience and good boots: trails are muddy, steep in places and slippery after rain.

Getting there

Monte Alén lies a few hours inland from Bata, by paved road for much of the way and then by smaller roads to the park. Public transport does not reach the trails, so you need a driver and a guide. Check before you go whether the park lodge is operating, because its status has changed over the years, and whether a permit is required from the national forestry and protected areas authorities.

When to go

The mainland's main dry season, roughly December to February, is the easiest time, with firmer trails and fewer storms. A shorter drier spell around July and August can also work. Expect rain at any time; this is a rainforest.

What to bring

Pack light long-sleeved clothes, a rain jacket, sturdy walking shoes or boots, insect repellent, a torch, water purification and plenty of cash, as there are no banks or card machines nearby. Binoculars help a lot with birds and monkeys. Take malaria precautions seriously.

Responsible travel

Hunting for bushmeat is a serious threat to the park's wildlife. Never buy or eat bushmeat, stay with your guide, keep noise down and take all rubbish out with you. Paying for local guides and village services helps show that a living forest is worth more than a hunted one.

Combining it with your trip

Most visitors spend two or three nights in Bata and one or two nights in or near the park. Use our free trip planner to fit Monte Alén into a route with Malabo and the Bioko beaches.

A typical day in the forest

Start at first light, when birds and monkeys are most active. A guided walk of a few hours follows trails along rivers and up ridges, with stops to listen for primates and look for tracks. Lunch is usually simple and packed. Afternoons can bring heavy rain, so plan to rest, swim in a safe river pool if your guide suggests it, or watch birds from a clearing. Night walks, when allowed, reveal frogs, insects and sometimes small mammals.

Health in the forest

Take antimalarials as advised by your doctor, use repellent, cover up at dusk and carry a basic first aid kit. Medical help is far away, so travel insurance with evacuation cover is essential.