Africa
Money, cards and tipping in Gabon
XAFFranc
Money in Gabon
Mixed: cards and cash Cards work at Libreville hotels, supermarkets and some restaurants; cash is needed for taxis, markets and anywhere outside the cities. US$1 ≈ CFA582.98 (03 Oct 2026).
Key facts
- Tipping: Not required; round up or leave 5–10% in restaurants.
- ATMs: ATMs cap withdrawals around 100,000–200,000 XAF; Visa is more widely accepted than Mastercard.
- Paying by phone: Airtel Money and Moov Money are used locally but need a Gabonese SIM and account.
- Price level: about 37% of US prices (World Bank PPP).
Cash or card, by place
| Place | Cards | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Libreville | Mixed: cards and cash | Cards work in hotels, supermarkets and upscale restaurants; cash for taxis and markets. Foreign cards sometimes fail at ATMs, so carry some cash. |
Quick answers
Do you tip in Gabon?
Not required; round up or leave 5–10% in restaurants.
Is Gabon cashless?
Mixed: cards and cash. Cards work at Libreville hotels, supermarkets and some restaurants; cash is needed for taxis, markets and anywhere outside the cities.
What currency does Gabon use?
The Franc (XAF). US$1 ≈ CFA582.98 (03 Oct 2026).
Sources
- ExchangeRate-API open rates
- US State Department travel advisory
- Gabon e-visa platform
- Gabon National Parks Agency
- Speedtest Global Index: Gabon
- World Bank open data
Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.