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Rabi-Kounga Oil Field
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The Rabi-Kounga Oil Field is the most significant and largest onshore oil field in Gabon's history, located deep within the rainforests of the Ogooué-Maritime province. Discovered in 1985 by Shell Gabon, this field revolutionized the Gabonese economy when production commenced in 1989. At its peak in the late 1990s, Rabi-Kounga accounted for nearly half of the country's total oil output, making Gabon one of Africa's leading producers. Geographically, the field is surrounded by dense forest and wetlands, making the construction of infrastructure and pipeline networks a major logistical feat. The crude oil extracted is known for its high quality, often referred to as "Rabi Light," and is transported via pipeline to the Gamba Terminal on the coast. Although production has naturally declined since its peak, the field remains a central pillar of the national energy strategy through modern recovery technologies and new drilling. Today, Rabi-Kounga is jointly operated by Perenco and Shell.
- Location: Gabon
- Nearby: Loango National Park (45 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 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 25 | 24 | 23 | 23 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 |
| Rain mm | 207 | 203 | 283 | 270 | 174 | 24 | 3 | 7 | 57 | 304 | 406 | 239 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Rabi-Kounga oil field is one of the largest onshore oil fields in Gabon, embedded deep within the dense rainforest. Its extraction is crucial to the national economy, contributing a major share of the country's crude oil output and creating employment in a remote area.
Visiting
The oil field itself is not open to the public, as it is a secured industrial site. Typically, the facilities can only be glimpsed from afar, for instance from nearby roads or viewpoints at the edge of the rainforest.
Where to view it
The best public view of the Rabi-Kounga oil field is from the main roads that run through the region. From a few hills at the edge of the rainforest, the facilities can be spotted in the distance, provided the vegetation allows it.
Local products
There are no direct retail outlets for visitors in the immediate vicinity of the oil field. However, in nearby villages, local handicrafts or rainforest food products are sometimes offered.
Active season
Oil extraction runs year‑round without major seasonal fluctuations. The highest activity occurs during the dry season, when logistical conditions for transport and maintenance of the facilities are most favorable.
Nearby
A visit to the oil field can be combined with exploring the adjacent rainforest, for instance on guided nature tours. The Loango National Park area with its diverse wildlife also makes a complementary destination.
Geography
Facts
- The Rabi-Kounga field was discovered in 1985.
- Commercial oil production started in January 1989.
- At its peak, it produced over 200,000 barrels of oil per day.
- The field produces the high-quality 'Rabi Light' crude grade.
- A 130 km pipeline transports the oil to the Gamba export terminal.
- Operations are currently managed primarily by Perenco.
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Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Rabi-Kounga oilfield?
It is the largest onshore oilfield in Gabon and is located in the middle of the tropical rainforest.
When did production start there?
Production began in the late 1980s and has significantly shaped Gabon's economy.
Is the area accessible to tourists?
No, it is a restricted industrial area with very limited access.
How does personnel get there?
Mostly by charter flights directly to the oilfield's small airstrip, or by boat and jeep.
What impact does the oilfield have on the environment?
Operators use modern technology to minimize the ecological footprint in the sensitive rainforest.
Rabi-Kounga Oil Field: where is it located?
Rabi-Kounga Oil Field is located in Gabon.
Rabi-Kounga Oil Field: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Rabi-Kounga Oil Field: why is it worth visiting?
The Rabi-Kounga Oil Field is the most significant and largest onshore oil field in Gabon's history, located deep within the rainforests of the Ogooué-Maritime province.
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Nearby cities
Port-Gentil
The economic heart of Gabon, famous for its petroleum industry.
Gamba
A significant site for the oil industry on the coast.
Omboué
A picturesque town on the Fernan Vaz lagoon.
Loango National Park
Loango National Park is famous for its ocean-surfing hippos.
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Fernan Vaz Lagoon
The Fernan Vaz Lagoon is a serene, biodiverse aquatic landscape in Gabon, famous for its historic mission and gorilla rehabilitation.
Petit Loango
A settlement near Loango National Park, ideal for nature observation.
Sette Cama
A historical coastal settlement known for fishing and nature.
History & landmarks
Saint-Anne Mission of Fernan Vaz
A historic Catholic mission featuring an iron church designed by Gustave Eiffel.
Ozouri Bridge
A significant bridge in the Ogooué-Maritime region, connecting vital transport routes.
Port-Gentil Stadium
A modern football stadium in Port-Gentil used for international tournaments.
Saint-Pierre Cathedral
The central Catholic church of Port-Gentil, known for its architecture.
Lighthouse of Cape Lopez
A historic lighthouse at the westernmost point of Gabon, guiding ships.
Nature
More places
Setté Cama Forest
A pristine coastal rainforest bordering directly on the Atlantic Ocean.
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Fernand Vaz Colonial Site
A former trading post and mission area on the coastal lagoon.
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Rembo Nkomi Forest
A vast swamp forest area near the coastal lagoons, characterized by waterways and mangroves.
Mission Sainte-Anne du Fernan Vaz
A historic iron church designed at the end of the 19th century in the workshops of Gustave Eiffel.
Moukalaba-Doudou Gorilla Habitat
A significant primate protection area, especially for Western Lowland Gorillas and chimpanzees in southern Gabon.
Oguendjo Oil Terminal
Another important loading terminal for the oil industry in the Gulf of Guinea.
Ekwata Island
A small island off the coast of Gabon, known for its pristine nature.
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Ozouri Island
A flat island in a lagoon, a refuge for waterfowl.