Africa
Gabon
Sparsely populated Central African country of rainforest, wild beaches and national parks (Loango, Lopé). French-speaking, expensive and tour-driven, with thin infrastructure; Libreville feels safer than most of the region.
- US travel advisoryLevel 2Exercise increased cautionDetails
- Visa9 of 198passports can visit visa-freeDetails
- CurrencyXAFUS$1 ≈ CFA582.98Details
- Price level37%of US prices (World Bank PPP)
- English2/5Limited
- PlugsType C220 V, 50 HzDetails
- Tap waterNo, drink bottledTap water is unsafe.Details
- LGBTQ+CriminalizedA 2019 law recriminalised same-sex acts; attitudes are conservative, and Libreville is somewhat tolerant but discreet.Details
- DrivingOn the rightForeign licences with an IDP are accepted for short stays; roads outside the cities are rough and parks need a 4x4.
Where to go in Gabon
1 place with full guides. Comfortable monthly budget for one person, rent included.
| Place | Safety | Month, comfortable | Best months | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LibrevilleCapital city | 3/5 | $2,060–3,430 | Jun–Sep | 4/100 |
When to visit Gabon
June–August is the long dry season and best for parks and wildlife; December–January is a short dry spell. Heavy rains run September–November and February–May.
Good to know
Entry
- A visa is required for most visitors; apply online through the official Gabon e-visa platform before travel.
- A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry.
- Passport must be valid six months beyond arrival; tourists may need a hotel booking, business visitors an invitation letter.
Laws visitors break by accident
- Same-sex relations are criminal since 2019
- Photographing government, military and presidential sites is prohibited
- Carry a passport copy; ID checks are frequent
Etiquette
- Greet people properly before asking for anything
- Ask permission before photographing people or sites
- Use your right hand to give, receive and eat
- Be neutral on politics, the coup and the president
Tipping
Not required; round up or leave 5–10% in restaurants.
Neighbouring countries
Sources
- US State Department travel advisory
- Gabon e-visa platform
- Gabon National Parks Agency
- Speedtest Global Index: Gabon
- World Bank open data
Country facts are researched by SoloSquare; advisory levels, crime, health and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.