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Gabon

Located in central Africa, Gabon is an interesting African country, with a population of just two million despite its large surface area. And what a country it is: Gabon is one of the most forested countries in the world, with more than 20% of its land protected. The percentage of protected marine areas is even higher, at 27%. A low population combined with unspoilt nature offers stunning wildlife experiences, making Gabon a world-class safari destination. Here it is possible to see species such as western lowland gorilla, mandrill and forest elephant. Gabon is also known for its oil wealth, which is why sometimes only the hot and humid climate in the capital Libreville reveals the location on the equator – Gabon lies on both sides of the equator!

See our travel suggestions below and contact us if you are interested or need more information about travel in Gabon.

Kameli Travel organises tours to Gabon – whether you want to experience the capital Libreville, which in places resembles southern Europe, explore the mangrove swamps near the capital, travel deep inland to the small town of Lambaréné in the footsteps of Nobel Prize-winning Dr Albert Schweitzer or go on safari in one of the country's magnificent nature parks: Loango, Lopé...

We can arrange an expert guide for you or your group, transport services and book your preferred level of accommodation.

Contact us if you are interested, need more information about travelling to Gabon or already know where you would like to go in Gabon. Or let us know the date and let us make a suggestion. A trip to Gabon can easily be combined with a visit to Congo-Brazzaville, Congo-Kinshasa and Cameroon.

Situated on the Atlantic coast, on both sides of the equator, Gabon is slightly larger (267 667 km²) than the United Kingdom. It has a population of just over 2 million people and the capital Libreville is located on the west coast of Central Africa. The country gained independence from French rule in 1960 and, as a colonial legacy, the official language is French. English is poorly spoken. Oil-rich Gabon derives almost half of its income from oil in its various forms, but mining (manganese) also supports a large number of people, as does forestry. Tourism is almost non-existent.

Climate: Gabon has an equatorial climate, which means high temperatures and high humidity all year round. There is little variation in temperatures and average temperatures remain above +20°C throughout the year and throughout the country. Most rainfall occurs between October and May, while very little rainfall occurs between June and September. Libreville receives around 3050 mm of rain per year, while the north-west coast of the country receives up to 3810 mm.

Security: The security situation in Gabon is generally good, but there are pickpockets in the crowds. Traffic and heat are the main risk factors.

Visa: Westerners need a visa to enter Gabon. An e-visa is available, but its functioning is uncertain. We recommend obtaining a visa in advance from the nearest Gabonese embassy. Please note that visa policies are subject to change without notice. Passports must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry.

Currency: Gabon uses the Central African CFA franc (XOF) as its currency, which is pegged to the euro. One euro buys around 656 francs. You should take euro banknotes and exchange them at your destination or withdraw cash from an ATM.

Vaccinations and malaria: Gabon requires a certificate of yellow fever vaccination. In addition, hepatitis a and b vaccinations are recommended. Please ensure that your basic vaccinations are up to date. Malaria is prevalent throughout Gabon throughout the year, so anti-malaria medication is recommended. Protection from mosquitoes during the day is also recommended due to the risk of dengue fever.

Travel insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended.

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