Gabon🇬🇦
Gabon is located on the west coast of Central Africa. It is bounded by Equatorial Guinea to the northwest, Cameroon to the north, the Republic of the Congo on the east and south, and the Gulf of Guinea to the west. The country is known for its diversity of flora and fauna, including over 10,000 orchid species in the rain forests and the critically endangered western lowland gorilla. The capital city Libreville is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, French colonial architecture, and the beautiful seaside promenade. Additionally, the Loango National Park is a highly recommended destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
⚠️Things you should avoid⚠️
- Avoid drinking tap water, it is not generally safe. It is better to go for bottled water or alternatively boil the water before consumption.
- It is advisable to avoid public demonstrations and large gatherings as they can sometimes turn violent.
- It is recommended to avoid unpasteurized dairy products to prevent foodborne diseases.
- It is advisable to avoid rural areas during the rainy season due to the risk of flooding and poor road conditions.
- Avoid keeping all your money, cards, and important documents in one place while traveling. In case of loss or theft, it is good to have a backup.
- Avoid walking alone late at night particularly in the urban areas due to the risk of street crimes.
- Avoid making controversial statements about the government or religion in public due to the sensitivity of these topics.
- Avoid being overly affectionate in public. Gabon is a conservative society and public display of affection could be considered offensive.
- Avoid traveling without proper travel insurance. Medical facilities, particularly outside of urban areas, can be limited.
- Avoid VAT fraud. Always ask for receipts when making purchases in order to prevent becoming unintentionally involved in VAT fraud.
Overall
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Crime 🔫
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Crime in Gabon is moderately high with common crimes including carjacking, robbery and residential burglary particularly in urban areas such as Libreville and Port Gentil. Petty crime such as pickpocketing and purse snatching is common especially in markets and other crowded places.
Terrorism 💣
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There have been no significant incidents of terrorism in Gabon in the recent years, thus the threat of terrorism is considered to be low. However, it is always advisable to remain vigilant.
War ⚔️
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Gabon is a peaceful country. It has no ongoing disputes with its neighboring countries and there have been no recent incidents of domestic or international conflict.
Natural Disasters 🌊
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Gabon is susceptible to a few natural disasters such as floods, especially during the rainy season, and landslides in certain areas. However, comprehensive measures are taken by the authorities to manage and mitigate the risks.
Medical Care 🏥
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While Gabon has some medical facilities available, especially in urban areas, the level and availability of healthcare is quite limited in rural areas. Moreover, emergency response services are not up to global standards.
Tap Water Quality 💧
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Tap water in Gabon is not generally safe to drink. Travelers are advised to drink bottled water or boil tap water before consuming.
Disease Burden 🤒
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Gabon suffers from diseases such as malaria, schistosomiasis, yellow fever, and other vector-borne diseases. Therefore, it is recommended to take preventive measures against these diseases.
Corruption 💸
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Corruption is present in Gabon, particularly in areas such as law enforcement and public services. Despite governmental efforts to tackle it, corruption remains an issue.
Safety for Women ♀️
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While women travelers are generally safe in Gabon, it is advisable to avoid walking alone late at night and to take precautions in public places.
Safety for Queer People 👬
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While homosexuality is not illegal in Gabon, societal attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community can be conservative. It is therefore recommended to exercise discretion.
Censorship 📺
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There have been reports of censorship in Gabon, but the situation varies. Most often, the media faces censorship when reporting critically on the government or when reporting sensitive issues.
Public Transportation 🚌
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Public transportation in Gabon is limited and not always reliable. Road conditions are poor in rural areas. While traveling in city areas, taxis are a common and often safe method of transport.
Other useful information
🔒 How safe is it?
Overall, Gabon is a moderately safe country for travelers. However, it is advisable to be cautious, especially in urban areas where crime rates are higher. Travelers should also be aware of health risks including waterborne and mosquito-borne diseases.
🏰 Embassies in this Country
Various foreign embassies are located in the capital Libreville, including those of France, the United States, and China.
💉 Recommended Vaccinations
Recommended vaccinations for travel to Gabon include Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Yellow Fever, Rabies, Meningitis, Polio, Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR), Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis), Chickenpox, Shingles, Pneumonia, and Influenza.
🐍 Dangerous Animals
Dangerous animals in Gabon include the African Elephant, Gorillas, Crocodiles, and Poisonous Snakes such as Black Mamba and Gaboon Viper. Precautions should be taken when in their habitat.
🛂 Visa Requirements
Most travelers to Gabon require a visa which can be obtained upon arrival. However, it is advisable to apply for the visa to Gabon in advance from their country of origin to ensure entry permission.
💲 Currency
The official currency of Gabon is Central African CFA franc. Currency can be exchanged at banks and currency exchange bureaus.
💳 Credit Card Acceptance
Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and restaurants in urban areas. However, cash is commonly used, especially in rural areas.
🧑🏭 Is it possible to work and travel in this country?
Working while traveling in Gabon can be challenging due to limited job opportunities for travelers. However, there are some possibilities in sectors such as tourism and education.
💵 Cost of Travel and Living
The cost of travel and living in Gabon can be moderately high compared to other African countries. Accommodation, food, and other services in cities like Libreville and Port Gentil can be particularly expensive.