Poubara Falls and Liana Bridge

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.

What you actually see

• 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.

Honest expectations

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.