Gabon

The Land of Forests
and Wildlife Riches

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Gabon, a country in Central Africa, is renowned for its lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, and rich natural resources. Home to iconic landmarks like Lopé National Park, the Ivindo River, and the capital city Libreville, Gabon offers a unique blend of natural wonders and urban experiences. The country's geography features dense forests, coastal plains, and a network of rivers.

Gabonese culture is a vibrant mix of over 40 ethnic groups, reflected in its traditional music, art, and cuisine featuring dishes like nyembwe (chicken in palm nut sauce). Known for its commitment to conservation, with over 10% of its land designated as national parks, and as one of Africa's more prosperous nations due to its oil wealth, Gabon presents a captivating destination that combines pristine nature with cultural diversity.

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Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Gabon.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date from Gabon.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: No countries are fully visa-exempt for Gabon. All travelers require a visa unless otherwise specified by diplomatic agreement.
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from all nations must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Gabon, either through an embassy, high commission, or the e-Visa system.

Special Entry Provisions

  • No specific provisions exist for holders of Schengen, US, or UK visas or residence permits to enter Gabon without a visa; a Gabon-specific visa is required.
  • Travelers must have confirmed onward or return tickets, proof of sufficient funds for their stay, and a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

ID Card Entry

  • No countries are permitted to enter Gabon using only a national ID card. A passport is mandatory for all travelers.

Visa Types

  • Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for up to 30 days (extendable with approval). Can be single or multiple entry, with validity up to 1 year.
  • Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 30 days. Valid for one year with a 90-day stay period, allowing application for a residence permit.

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Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa durations vary; tourist stays are typically capped at 30 days unless extended.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules apply for work, study, or long-term stays; contact the nearest Gabonese embassy or high commission.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements (e.g., vaccination certificates or testing) via the Ministry of Health.
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Driving in Gabon

Current Toll Roads

  • As of 2025, Gabon has no official toll roads. Major routes like the Libreville-Port-Gentil road are publicly funded, but tolls may be introduced on key routes in the future due to infrastructure needs.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates: Not applicable yet; monitor updates from the Gabon Road Authority.
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: Central African CFA Franc (XAF) would be accepted if tolls are introduced.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Unlikely to be accepted initially; cash is king.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: No system currently exists.

Driving in Gabon

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants, though enforcement is limited.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 40 km/h
    • Rural roads: 60 km/h
    • Highways: 80 km/h
  • Road conditions: Poor outside major cities like Libreville and Port-Gentil; unpaved, damaged, and unlit roads are common, especially during the rainy season (October to May).
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license for stays up to 3 months; longer stays require a Gabonese driver’s license.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Gabon has no vignette system, but road taxes or checkpoints may apply—check locally.
  • Road Safety: Roads are hazardous due to poor maintenance, aggressive drivers, and occasional banditry in rural areas. Avoid night driving outside urban areas.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is unreliable in rural areas; keep an updated physical map and a reliable communication device.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergencies (service may be limited, especially in rural areas).

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Currency Menu

Gabon Currency

The official currency of Gabon is the Central African CFA Franc (XAF).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 500, 1000, 2000, 5000, 10000 XAF
  • Coins: 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, 500 XAF
  • Symbol: CFA

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services available at banks, Libreville Léon-Mba International Airport, and major hotels in Libreville and Port-Gentil.
  • ATMs are limited but available in major cities for direct XAF withdrawals (major UK, US, and Euro cards may be accepted).

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred, especially outside urban areas.
  • Credit/debit cards are rarely accepted, limited to major hotels and some businesses in Libreville and Port-Gentil.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans, though card use may be unreliable.
  • Carry sufficient cash for small purchases and rural areas.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when exchanging or using cards.
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Bank of Central African States website: https://www.beac.int/en/exchange-rates
Laws Menu

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Gabon

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in Gabon, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Severe penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs, including lengthy prison sentences or execution. No tolerance for small amounts.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Public intoxication is illegal and punishable by fines or detention.
    • Smoking banned in public buildings and on public transport.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Avoid discussing sensitive political or ethnic issues, especially related to the government or regional tensions.
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are illegal, with penalties up to 6 months in prison or fines. 2SLGBTQI+ travelers should carefully consider the risks of traveling to Gabon.
  • Photography: Restricted near government buildings, military sites, or sensitive installations. Always ask permission for portraits of locals.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 1L spirits | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over $10,000 USD (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, firearms, endangered species products.
  • Counterfeit goods (may face fines or confiscation).

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 7 days at the airport via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR).

Complaints

  • Submit grievances to the Gabon Tourism Office or local police stations.

Beach Access

  • Public beaches must allow free access within 2.5 meters of the shoreline. Wheelchair access is legally mandated on major beaches like those in Libreville and Port-Gentil.

Key Resources

Safety Menu

Gabon Safety

Gabon is generally safe for travellers, with low crime rates and a reputation for hospitality. However, travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Gabon.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) is rare but possible in crowded areas like markets or tourist sites in Libreville and Port-Gentil. Violent crime against tourists is extremely uncommon.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Gabon is considered safe, with locals often going out of their way to assist visitors. Avoid isolated areas at night.

Road Safety

  • Driving can be challenging due to narrow, winding roads, aggressive drivers, and poor rural road conditions.
  • Avoid night driving outside urban areas due to limited lighting and road hazards.
  • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory, though enforcement is limited.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Avoid tap water; drink bottled or purified water.
    • Practice safe eating habits to prevent travelers’ diarrhea.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Required: Yellow fever (for all travelers over 1 year old).
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, typhoid, polio, hepatitis B, rabies, malaria prophylaxis, and COVID-19.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Malaria, dengue, and African sleeping sickness are widespread; use repellent and bed nets.
  • Altitude Sickness: Minimal risk, as no areas exceed 1,575 meters (Mont Iboundji).

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Private facilities like the Albert Schweitzer Hospital in Lambaréné offer higher standards. Rural areas often lack advanced care.
  • Pharmacies: Available in cities; stock essential medications, but supplies can be limited.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 112 (works for police, ambulance, and fire).
  • Police: 17 | Ambulance: 18 | Fire: 19.
  • Tourist Police (Libreville): +241 01 76 30 30.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Rent a 4x4 for rural or forested areas. Check insurance coverage for rentals.
  • Hiking: Use local guides for remote areas like Mont Iboundji or national parks (e.g., Lopé National Park).
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid discussing sensitive political or government-related issues.
  • Air Quality: Generally good, but monitor dust levels during dry seasons (June to September).

Key Links

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Flying to Gabon