Discover Gabon: A Hidden Gem on Africa's West Coast
One of the most scenic and prosperous countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, Gabon attracts plenty of adventurous travellers and nature lovers to its shores every year. The country straddles the equator on the west coast of Africa and is bordered by Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Atlantic Ocean.
Many travellers opt to 4×4 through this rugged country, armed with little more than a French dictionary, some mosquito repellent and a taste for adventure. Gabon offers lush tropical rainforests teeming with exotic wildlife such as chimpanzees, elephants and even gorillas. There are vast green savannahs in the Lope National Park, 500 miles (805km) of deserted sandy beaches, and plenty of hidden lagoons and exotic estuaries waiting to be explored.
When it comes to eco-tourism, Gabon is one of Africa’s trailblazers thanks to the government designating 10 percent of the country’s land to national parks. Adventurous visitors will be pleased to know that virtually everywhere in Gabon is off the beaten track as everything outside the capital of Libreville has only recently become accessible. Travellers in Gabon therefore often enjoy the thrill of exploration in a country that has not yet commercialised its many wonders.
Originally inhabited by the Pygmy people, it was colonised by the Portuguese in the 15th century. They named the country ‘Gabao’, which is Portuguese for ‘cabin’, after the shape of the estuary of the Komo River. It was later colonised by France in 1885, and went on to gain independence in 1960.
Gabon is politically stable and encourages tourism, but it can still be a dangerous destination as a result of poverty-driven crime. Travellers are advised to be cautious in Libreville and carry a copy of their passport and visa at all times, as police are known to hassle tourists. Female travellers should prepare themselves for plenty of unwanted attention, but are equally free to firmly dismiss it. Crime in the capital city is likely to be petty, but is still a concern.
For those who like a more mainstream experience, Port Gentil at the mouth of the Ogooue River offers some wonderful fishing and is popular among European visitors who enjoy the high life.
With so much to see and do, Gabon has enough charm and diversity to appeal to travellers with a hearty sense of adventure. And, although it is perhaps not at the top of many African destination lists, it richly rewards intrepid travellers.
Key Facts
- Language:
- The official language of Gabon is French and English is not widely spoken.
- Passport/Visa:
Visitors should keep all visa and travel documentation at all times, and make sure passports are machine readable; even with a valid visa entry, visitors may be denied if documents are not available for presentation. All visitors to Gabon must be in possession of a hotel voucher or a letter of invitation issued by their sponsor, a return or onward ticket, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination.
Those who apply for e-visas (https://evisa.dgdi.ga) must print out the authorisation and will need to pay for their visa on arrival in Gabon. Proof of a yellow fever vaccination is required to enter Gabon.
It is highly recommended that visitors’ passports have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
- Currency:
The Central African CFA franc (XFA) is the official currency of Gabon (along with five other central African countries). It is divided into 100 smaller units called centime. Gabon is largely a cash economy and credit cards are only accepted at some major hotels. Foreign currency can be exchanged at hotels and banks and there are some ATMs in major cities. ATMs are targeted by thieves, so tourists should be wary when withdrawing cash.
- Electricity:
- Electrical current is 220 to 240 volts, 50Hz. European two-pin plugs are standard, though Type C, E and F sockets may also work.
Overview
Gabon is a rewarding travel destination, but exploring the country isn’t a straightforward exercise. Infrastructure is limited, the tourism industry is in its infancy, and getting around in the country can often prove rather expensive.
Although the wildlife and landscapes are magnificent, foreigners shouldn’t expect world-class museums and amenities just yet. The main tourist attractions in Gabon are wildlife safaris, nature treks and national parks; it’s therefore a gem of a destination for the adventurous traveller who doesn’t mind roughing it a little.
Most tourists arrive in the capital Libreville but never linger long because, despite having some treats for sightseers, it can be thoroughly explored in a day or two. A trip to the colourful and busy markets, a stroll down the lovely coastal boulevard, and a sampling of the local cuisine in the city’s restaurants are the highlights.
There are some wonderful excursions from Libreville though, with the beautiful beaches of Pointe Denis a short ferry ride away, and the Pongara National Park extending beyond it and offering a tantalising mix of rolling savannah, pristine coastline and tropical forest.
One of Gabon’s greatest drawcards for visitors are the leatherback turtles that nest on its beaches, and Pointe Denis is the perfect place to seek them out. The baby turtles emerge in December and January, making this the best time to visit Gabon for those keen on seeing this great natural phenomenon.
There are 13 national parks in Gabon, covering a whopping 10 percent of the country, but not all of them are easily accessible. The most famous is Loango National Park in western Gabon, which is widely considered one of the most beautiful swathes of Africa, and has become well known for its surfing hippos, western gorillas and various other native wildlife.
Climate in Gabon
Gabon is characterised by the heat, humidity, and heavy rainfall typical of tropical regions. The dry months are from May to September, December and January. The average daily temperature is about 81F (27C) and the high average humidity level (80 percent) makes it seem even hotter. The hottest months are between February and April, when temperatures in the capital, Libreville, average between 73F (23C) and 88F (31C).
The long dry season, between May and September, is the best time to travel to Gabon weather-wise, because although it is hot, mosquitoes and other insects are at their least plentiful and the roads are more easily traversed when dry. However, many tourists travel to Gabon primarily to see the plentiful wildlife in the national parks and it is a good idea to check with the parks for information on seasonal wildlife migrations.
Health Notes when travelling to Gabon
All eligible travellers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines, and yellow fever vaccinations are required for all visitors over the age of nine months. Gabon is a malaria zone and there have been recent outbreaks of chikungunya fever and dengue fever, all transmitted by mosquito bites. There are no vaccines available for these diseases, but stringent anti-insect measures are recommended.
Vaccinations for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and typhoid are recommended for all travellers to Gabon. Those who will be spending a lot of time outdoors may be at risk of animal bites and should also consider a rabies vaccination. Tap water should not be drunk unless it has been boiled, and ice and uncooked fruits should also be avoided.
Healthcare in Gabon is poor, and traveller’s insurance is a necessity. Many doctors will expect cash up front, regardless of insurance. Medical facilities in major cities should be sufficient for routine care, but in the rural areas healthcare is often non-existent.
Travellers should take a custom medical kit and any necessary medication in the original packaging, with a signed and dated letter from a doctor detailing exactly what it is and why it is needed. This applies to syringes and needles as well.
Safety Notes when travelling to Gabon
Most visits have been trouble free, though visitors have been the targets of crime. Urban hubs such as Libreville and Port Gentil experience the most petty and violent crime. Travellers can avoid becoming victims by hiding expensive jewellery, cameras, and other valuables. They should also avoid walking alone or at night, and parking in unlit, unguarded areas.
Petty crime is common and violent crime is on the rise, with some incidents of armed robbery and assault in homes, restaurants, and at beaches frequented by tourists and foreigners. Carjacking is also a concern and visitors should keep their car doors locked and their windows up while driving, and never leave valuables visible in their vehicles. Unfortunately, Police are often slow to respond when called. Female travellers can expect unwanted attention from men, but are free to be firm in their refusal. Tourists should be careful and vigilant when drawing money as robberies at ATMs do occur and credit card fraud is common.
Gabon’s government is relatively stable. However, there is still the possibility of demonstrations and rallies in urban areas. Visitors should avoid large gatherings where possible because protests can turn violent. It is advisable to remain up to date with the political circumstances and local news in order to avoid any danger.
Customs in Gabon
Drug possession is a serious offence in Gabon and punishment will include a prison sentence, even for tourists. Homosexuality is not widely accepted and has received cultural backlash in recent years, but it is not illegal.
Taking photographs of government buildings, including the Presidential Palace, the airport, and all military sites, is prohibited.
Respect is hugely important in Gabonese culture and it’s best to enquire after someone’s health before making a request.
Duty Free in Gabon
Travellers to Gabon may import three litres of wine and one litre of spirits, 400 cigarettes or 125g cigars or 500g of tobacco and up to 500g of jewellery. Counterfeit goods, child pornography, non-prescription drugs, and unlicensed arms and ammunition (without permission from the government) are prohibited. Visitors should bring prescription drugs in their original package, with a letter from the doctor who issued them detailing what they are and why they are needed.
Doing Business in Gabon
The export of petroleum, timber, and manganese has helped Gabon develop one of Africa’s more successful and stable economies. The country still has strong business ties with France, as well as the US, China, and a few African countries.
French is the principal business language and formal business attire is required. Handshakes are an acceptable method of greeting and business cards should have a French translation. Office hours in Gabon are generally 7.30am to 12pm and 2.30pm to 6pm, Monday to Friday.
Communication in Gabon
The international access code for Gabon is +241. Mobile phones are more widely used than landlines, though coverage can be patchy outside of Libreville and Port-Gentil. Visitors will need two copies of their passport and visa to purchase local SIM cards. Internet connectivity is good, with most hotels and some cafes and restaurants offering free WiFi.
Tipping in Gabon
Tipping etiquette hasn’t really been established in Gabon and it’s best to just tip according to the quality of service received. Taxi drivers don’t expect tips, but rounding up the fare for good service will be appreciated. Service fees are seldom added to the bill in restaurants and a 10 percent tip for good service will be appreciated.
Passport/Visa Note
Visitors should keep all visa and travel documentation at all times, and make sure passports are machine readable; even with a valid visa entry, visitors may be denied if documents are not available for presentation. All visitors to Gabon must be in possession of a hotel voucher or a letter of invitation issued by their sponsor, a return or onward ticket, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination.
Those who apply for e-visas (https://evisa.dgdi.ga) must print out the authorisation and will need to pay for their visa on arrival in Gabon. Proof of a yellow fever vaccination is required to enter Gabon.
It is highly recommended that visitors’ passports have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
US citizens must have a passport that is valid upon arrival in Gabon. A visa is required. US citizens can obtain a visa on arrival for a maximum stay of 90 days, or e-visas can be applied for in advance online.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon arrival in Gabon. A visa is required. Canadian citizens can obtain a visa on arrival for a maximum stay of 90 days, or e-visas can be applied for in advance online.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
British citizens must have a passport that is valid upon arrival in Gabon. A visa is required. British citizens can obtain a visa on arrival for a maximum stay of 90 days, or e-visas can be applied for in advance online.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon arrival in Gabon. A visa is required: Australian citizens can obtain a visa on arrival for a maximum stay of 90 days, or e-visas can be applied for in advance online.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid upon arrival in Gabon. A visa is required. Irish citizens can obtain a visa on arrival for a maximum stay of 90 days, or e-visas can be applied for in advance online.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid upon arrival in Gabon. A visa is required.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African citizens must have a passport that is valid upon arrival in Gabon. South Africans do not require a visa provided their stay does not exceed 30 days.
Gabon Embassies
- In the United States:
Gabon Embassy, Washington DC., United States: +1 (202) 797 1000.
- In Canada:
Gabon Embassy, Ottawa, Canada: (+613) 232 5301.
- In the United Kingdom:
Gabon Embassy, London, United Kingdom (also responsible for Ireland): (+44) 20 7823 9986.
- In South Africa:
Gabon Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa: (+012) 342 4376.
Foreign Embassies in Gabon
- American Embassy
US Embassy, Libreville, Gabon: ( +241) 01 45 7100.
- Canadian Embassy
Canadian High Commission, Cameroon (also responsible for Gabon): (+237) 222 50 3900.
- British Embassy
British High Commission in Yaoundé, Cameroon (also responsible for Gabon): (+237) 22 222 07 96 / (+237) 22 222 05 45
- Australian Embassy
Embassy of Australia, Libreville, Gabon: (+241) 73 7354
- South African Embassy
South African Embassy, Libreville, Gabon: (+241) 79 1150.
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