If you’ve got a layover in Makokou, don’t let it go to waste sitting at MKU. The city, in Gabon, is within easy reach — roughly 60 minutes by local transport. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Before heading into Makokou, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Gabon vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Makokou is roughly 60 minutes from MKU via local transport. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in XAF. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some XAF in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting to Makokou from the Airport
From MKU, the local transport gets you to Makokou in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Makokou, budget roughly $30 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $13 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $7 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage options at MKU can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Makokou for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Exploring Makokou on a Layover
For a layover visit to Makokou, we’d suggest Makokou Central Market and Ogooué River Walk. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
It’s a good place to browse local goods and soak up the atmosphere. It’s the kind of area you can wander through at your own pace.
If you’d rather stay inside MKU — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- MKU Passenger Waiting Area
- Tarmac Observation
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Makokou: Restaurant La Savane and Chez Maman Marie (Local Grill/Maquis). Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Makokou Airport Canteen or Airside Refreshments Counter. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Taking a Break at MKU
Long overnight layover? Your options at MKU include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Gabon also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Staying Connected
WiFi at MKU should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Gabon and you’re good to go.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Makokou doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 60 minutes from MKU, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.