Plizio Visual Lab

Lebamba Rice Fields

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Agriculture

Weather…

The rice fields of Lebamba in the Ngounié province of southern Gabon are the result of ambitious agricultural development programs aimed at promoting cereal cultivation. In the vast plains along the Ngounié River, extensive irrigation systems were established to implement wet rice farming in a region traditionally dominated by cassava. Projects like SOGADERP (Société gabonaise de développement agricole et rural) have introduced modern techniques to Lebamba, including mechanized harvesting and specialized seed preparation. The soils in the river valleys are particularly fertile and allow for high yields with proper water management. This location is strategically important for reducing Gabon's national dependence on rice imports from Asia, as rice has become a staple food in Gabonese urban centers. In addition to the state sector, there are numerous small farms organized into cooperatives that combine local knowledge with modern methods. Lebamba also functions as a training center for agribusiness professionals in the Ngounié region.

Location: Gabon
Top sights: Louetsi-Wano (department) · Lébamba
Nearby: Ndendé (26 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	25	25	25	25	25	24	24	24	25	25	24	25
Rain mm	174	166	251	245	165	22	4	10	74	333	403	222

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The Lebamba Rice Fields in Ngounié province are a remarkable example of large-scale rice agriculture. They play a central role in securing food supply and offer insights into both traditional and modern cultivation methods.

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Visiting

The rice fields are clearly visible from surrounding roads as they stretch over large areas. Entering the fields is typically only allowed with permission from local farmers, so visitors should respect boundaries.

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Where to view it

The best viewpoint is along the main road that runs through the province, where the fields stretch to the horizon. Elevated spots like small hills offer a panoramic view of the entire cultivation area.

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Local products

The main product is the rice grown here, available at local markets and known for its quality. Seasonally, other regional vegetables may be on offer, and visitors can purchase fresh rice directly from farmers in nearby villages.

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Active season

The main harvest season typically falls in the dry season, when the rice fields glow golden and harvesting is in full swing. This is when the area is most lively and visitors can observe agricultural activity up close.

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Nearby

A visit to the rice fields can be combined with a tour of nearby villages to experience rural life. Exploring the natural landscapes of Ngounié province and other agricultural projects in the area is also a great option.

Geography

Coordinates

-2.20000, 11.50000

Facts

Lebamba is located approximately 100 kilometers south of the provincial capital Mouila.
Wet rice cultivation requires precise leveling of the fields for water distribution.
SOGADERP projects began to expand significantly in the late 1970s.
One harvest per year is standard, but two are possible with optimized irrigation.
The Ngounié River provides the necessary water for large-scale irrigation systems.
Mainly long-grain rice varieties are cultivated in the region for the local market.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Ndendé26 km · SWExplore →

Malemba39 km · NExplore →

Ikoundou Massif44 km · SExplore →

Mount Milondo56 km · EExplore →

Mbigou57 km · NEExplore →

Malinga58 km · NExplore →

Moabi61 km · SWExplore →

Mouila62 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Lebamba Rice Fields (2)

Louetsi-Wano (department)📍 landmark

Louetsi-Wano is a department in Ngounié Province, Gabon.

Lébamba📍 landmark

Lébamba is a town in Ngounié Province, Gabon, known for its rice fields.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where are the rice fields in Lebamba located?

In the flat plains around Lebamba in the Ngounié province.

When is the rice harvest?

There are usually two harvests per year, depending on the rainy seasons.

Can you visit the cultivation?

Yes, walks along the fields are possible; please respect the farmers' work.

Is the rice sold locally?

Yes, the rice is offered in the region's markets as 'Riz de Lebamba'.

What technique is used for cultivation?

It is a mix of traditional manual labor and modern irrigation.

Lebamba Rice Fields: where is it located?

Lebamba Rice Fields is located in Gabon.

Lebamba Rice Fields: what is there to see?

Highlights include Louetsi-Wano (department), Lébamba.

Lebamba Rice Fields: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Lebamba Rice Fields: why is it worth visiting?

The rice fields of Lebamba in the Ngounié province of southern Gabon are the result of ambitious agricultural development programs aimed at promoting cereal cultivation.

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