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Mayumba Slave Memorial

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Historical site

Weather…

The Mayumba Slave Memorial is located in the far south of Gabon, on the coast between the Atlantic Ocean and the Banio Lagoon. In the 18th and 19th centuries, this site was one of the last major embarkation points for slaves from the former Loango Kingdom bound for the Americas. Mayumba served as a collection point for captives from the interior, who were often held here under cruel conditions in so-called baracoons before being loaded onto European ships. Today, the memorial commemorates the immense suffering of these people and serves as a place of reflection on this dark chapter of world history. Mayumba's geographical isolation made it a handy hideout for illegal slave traders after official slavery had already been banned. In the modern era, Mayumba has evolved into an ecological jewel known for its sea turtles, yet the monument remains a constant reminder of the human fates that reached a tragic turning point here.

Location: Gabon
Top sights: Chapelle Sainte Odile · Croix de Lorraine
Nearby: Moulengui-Binza (59 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	26	27	27	27	26	23	22	23	24	25	26	26
Rain mm	158	135	152	123	69	3	1	2	16	103	189	154

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The monument is located outdoors and can be visited at any time. It stands on the coast of Mayumba, allowing visitors to view the memorial without restrictions.

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Typical hours

As an outdoor monument, there are no fixed opening hours. A daytime visit is recommended to read the commemorative plaques clearly.

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Photography

Photography is allowed at any time and encouraged. Early morning or late afternoon provide the best light for atmospheric shots.

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Time needed

Allow about 30 to 45 minutes for the visit. Exploring the surrounding area may take up to an hour.

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Combine with

Combine the visit with a walk along Mayumba's beach. A trip to the nearby Loango National Park is also a great addition.

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Getting there

Mayumba is reachable by car or bus from Tchibanga. The monument sits right along the coastal road and is easily accessible on foot.

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Insider tip

Visit the monument at low tide to better appreciate the coastal landscape. Bring insect repellent as mosquitoes can be present near the mangroves.

Geography

Coordinates

-3.42000, 10.65000

Facts

Formerly an important port of the Loango Kingdom
Center for illegal slave trade after 1850
Located on a narrow spit near the Banio Lagoon
Memorial to the 'journey of no return'
Last Gabonese port before the border with Congo
Today part of a major marine protected area

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Mayumba<1 km · EExplore →

Mayumba Coast6 km · SExplore →

Mayombe Mountains40 km · NExplore →

Moulengui-Binza59 km · NEExplore →

Nyanga River63 km · NEExplore →

Nyanga Cattle Pastures63 km · NEExplore →

Tchibanga65 km · NEExplore →

Doudou Mountains70 km · EExplore →

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 Mayumba Slave Memorial (2)

Chapelle Sainte Odile

Chapel in Mayumba dedicated to Saint Odile, a quiet place for prayer and reflection.

Croix de Lorraine

Stone cross in Mayumba, a local landmark commemorating historical events.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What commemorates the slave trade in Mayumba?

A memorial on the coast honors the victims who were shipped from here to the Americas.

Where exactly is the memorial located?

It is located near the beaches of Mayumba, at the historical departure points of the ships.

Is there an entrance fee for the memorial?

No, it is an outdoor public monument and can be visited for free at any time.

How do you get to Mayumba?

Mayumba is accessible by road or via the local airport, often from Libreville or Port-Gentil.

Are there guided tours about the history?

Local guides often offer tours explaining the dark history of the slave trade in the region.

Mayumba Slave Memorial: where is it located?

Mayumba Slave Memorial is located in Gabon.

Mayumba Slave Memorial: what is there to see?

Highlights include Chapelle Sainte Odile, Croix de Lorraine.

Mayumba Slave Memorial: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Mayumba Slave Memorial: why is it worth visiting?

The Mayumba Slave Memorial is located in the far south of Gabon, on the coast between the Atlantic Ocean and the Banio Lagoon.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →