Welcome to Gabon

If it’s wild Africa you seek, Gabon is the answer. More than 10 percent of the land is protected and home to a huge array of wildlife. If white-sand beaches are more your style, the country has those as well.

Start in Libreville, with its beautiful coastline, lively markets and intriguing museums. Then, take your pick from 13 national parks throughout the country, meeting every kind of friendly beast, from the endangered leatherback turtles of Pongara Point to the gorillas of Fernan Vaz Lagoon.

Unique Facts

• There are 13 national parks in Gabon, including Loango National Park with 110 miles of uninhabited shoreline, lagoons, forests, savannahs and wetlands.
• Many notable mammals reside here, including about 35,000 gorillas, 50,000 forest elephants and 64,000 chimpanzees.
• Kongou Falls, at 2 miles wide and 184 feet tall, is one of the strongest-flowing waterfalls in the world.
• It is believed that a blind man is responsible for the artistic wood-carved columns of the Cathedral of Saint Michael in Libreville.
• Mask making and ritual face painting are integral components of Gabonese culture. The styles of these traditions vary greatly between groups.

Language

Gabon’s official language is French.

When To Go

The best time to go to Gabon is during the dry season from late May to mid-September. There is another shorter dry season during December and January.

Airports

Léon-Mba International Airport

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid for six months beyond arrival date.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

Yes

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccine for all travelers when visiting Gabon: Measles, Yellow Fever and routine vaccinations. Most travelers should receive Hepatitis A, Malaria and Typhoid vaccines. Depending on where you are traveling, you may also need Hepatitis B and Rabies vaccines.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: type C. Standard voltage: 220V. Frequency: 50Hz.

Currency

Official local currency: Central African CFA Franc

Getting Around

Be aware that roads to cities outside Libreville may be unpaved and in poor condition. Pedestrians and animals share the roadways.

It is best to avoid public transportation in Libreville. Choose only taxis that appear to be in good conditions or ask your hotel to call an official taxi. There is an inter-city rail system from Libreville to Franceville.

Driver’s License

A valid US driver’s license and international driving permit are required.

US Embassy Info

U.S. Embassy Libreville
B.P. 4000
Libreville, Gabon
Telephone: +(241) 01-45-71-00
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(241) 07-38-01-71
Fax: +(241) 01-45-71-05
LibrevilleACS@state.gov

Local Visitor Info

n/a

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

General Emergency: 177

Safety and Security

The crime rate is moderate in Gabon. The most common crimes against tourists include muggings, pickpocketing and theft of unattended belongings. Avoid poorly lit streets and beaches after dusk.