LES MONTS NIMBA

This mountain range, which straddles the territory of Côte d'Ivoire, Liberia and Guinea, is about 40 kilometers long and culminates at Mount Richard-Molard at 1,752 meters. It is the second highest massif in West Africa, after the Loma Mountains of Sierra Leone (1,948 m). This ensemble has been classified as a protected nature reserve and covers more than 15,000 ha. More than 90 species of mammals have been recorded here, including harnessed guibs, duikers, forest buffalo, genets, colobus, cercopithecus and chimpanzees. It also lives the famous viviparous toad above 1 000 m of altitude and which is unique in the world.

This massif is made of quartzite and is very rich in iron ore. This is why, since the 1970s, the Nimba Mountains have been in the sights of large mining companies. Political, structural and/or financial problems have so far frozen the exploitation of the area. Moreover, this site is classified as a world heritage site, and as such is theoretically protected. But for how much longer, the mining companies claiming to be able to work there in an environmentally friendly manner? The fact remains that the mining perimeter represents 5,500 hectares out of the 12,500 hectares of the ecological reserve, so exploitation without repercussions on the environment seems impossible. The experience of the Liberian side, with the resulting ecological disaster, does not really speak in favor of these companies: polluted rivers, destroyed forests. Guineans are warned.

The discovery of the area is sometimes difficult, complicated by the activity of the mining companies in the area. However, there are several ways to climb the steep slopes of the Richard-Molard or Leclerc mountains..

First of all, the village of Gbakporé is one of the main routes. You should contact Bernard Doré who lives in Gbakporé and knows the area very well at + 224 622 85 73 21. He will be able to accompany willing hikers for a walk, a bit sportive, on the slopes of Mount Leclerc. He also organizes visits to different sites in the area (natural bridge, tomb of Jacques Richard-Molard, cave of Kéoulenta...). He also offers basic accommodation in his house.

You can also climb the Nimba from the village of Serengbara in the vicinity of Bossou. The guides of the Research Institute of Bossou will be able to open the way for you. It is possible to spend the night there before starting your trek in the morning.