Poubara Falls and Liana Bridge
Falls on the Ogooué near Franceville, crossed by a suspension bridge woven from lianas.
Updated 3 September 2026
The Ogooué drops over rock at Poubara upstream of Franceville, and beside the falls a suspension bridge woven entirely from lianas spans the river, built and rebuilt by the Batéké using the same technique for generations; it is remade every few years as the material rots. Crossing it is the point of the visit for most people. A hydroelectric dam upstream affects the flow over the falls.
Highlights
- The liana bridge - a suspension span woven from forest vines and rebuilt periodically.
- The falls - the Ogooué dropping over rock beside the crossing.
- The rebuilding tradition - the technique kept by the Batéké over generations.
- The river - the upper Ogooué above Franceville.
When to go
June to September is the dry season with easier access. Flow over the falls is affected by the dam upstream year round. The bridge is remade every few years.
Practical notes
The bridge sways considerably and is not for anyone uneasy with heights. Flow over the falls is reduced by the dam. Facilities are a fee hut and nothing else.
Nearby
Franceville is downstream, and Léconi is east.
What to pack for Poubara Falls and Liana Bridge
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Broken-in walking shoes or boots - Grip and ankle support matter more than looks; never hike in brand-new boots. Find on Amazon
- Shelter suited to the place - Tent, tarp or hut booking - match it to the terrain and rules. Find on Amazon
- Layers + a waterproof shell - Mountain weather turns fast; a packable rain jacket saves the day. Find on Amazon
- A warm sleeping bag + mat - Rated a little colder than you expect the nights to be. Find on Amazon
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