PJ Dunning, old friend, former guide and currently lodge manager in Namibia, jumped at the chance to accompany John on his exploratory trip to Gabon last September. Here are his thoughts on the rain forest which he likened to living in a giant green house.

There is no doubt that Gabon has exciting potential as a specialist safari destination. The fact that 13 national parks have been created in the last five years is an extremely positive move.