Gabon Travel Information

No airport tax is levied on passengers upon embarkation at the airport.

Entry requirements

The information on this page covers the most common types of travel and reflects the UK government’s understanding of the rules currently in place. Unless otherwise stated, this information is for travellers using a full ‘British Citizen’ passport.

The authorities in the country or territory you’re travelling to are responsible for setting and enforcing the rules for entry. If you’re unclear about any aspect of the entry requirements, or you need further reassurance, you’ll need to contact the embassy, high commission or consulate of the country or territory you’re travelling to.

You should also consider checking with your transport provider or travel company to make sure your passport and other travel documents meet their requirements.

Regular entry requirements

Visas

You will need a visa to visit Gabon. For full information on the visa application process, visit the website of the Gabonese Embassy in the UK.

Alternatively, in normal times, if you’re arriving into Libreville International Airport you can submit an online visa application at least 72 hours before the date of travel and collect your visa on arrival. For more information, visit the Gabonese government’s immigration portal.

Passport validity

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of six months from the date of entry into Gabon.

Yellow fever certificate requirements

Check whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.

Crime

Most visits by tourists are trouble-free. However, there have been incidents of robbery, armed attacks and rape in the past. You should:

• take sensible personal security precautions and maintain a high level of vigilance in public places.
• avoid displaying valuables like cameras, smart phones or jewellery.
• avoid isolated or poorer areas of towns and walking alone at night.
• be cautious on quiet or isolated beaches in and around Libreville, and avoid them altogether at night.

Taxis in Gabonese cities operate like buses, picking up new passengers while there is still room in the car. They often take indirect routes. There have been reports of violent assaults and robberies on taxi passengers.

• only use authorised taxis and preferably book one from a reputable company or through a restaurant or hotel.

There have been reports of car-jackings in Libreville. You’re advised to:

• keep your car windows closed and doors locked if you are travelling at night.
• don’t stop to pick up strangers.
• don’t resist car-jackers. An immobiliser that operates after the vehicle has been driven a short distance or a tracking device may help with the recovery of your vehicle.

Road travel

Road conditions are poor in most local areas and driving can be hazardous. During the rainy season from October to mid-December and mid-February to May many roads are passable only with a four-wheel drive vehicle. Avoid travelling by road at night. Police checkpoints are common; you may be asked to show your passport, driving licence or vehicle registration documents.

Air travel

The EU has published a list of air carriers that are subject to an operating ban or restrictions within the EU. British Government employees don’t use domestic flights run by Gabonese airline companies unless this is unavoidable.

Sea travel

There have been armed attacks on commercial shipping vessels in the Gulf of Guinea. Take extreme care when travelling in coastal waters.

Political situation

On 7 January 2019 there was a failed coup attempt by a small group of military officers. Following a few hours of sporadic gunfire in Libreville, the situation was brought back under control. Political stability in Gabon remains uncertain following the result of the 2016 presidential election, with violent clashes occurring between demonstrators and security forces at that time. Further protests may quickly turn violent without warning. You should avoid all demonstrations and rallies and remain vigilant during periods of unrest.

Consular assistance

Consular support may be limited in Gabon. However, the British High Commission in Yaoundé, Cameroon or Honorary Consul in Libreville can provide consular support to British nationals.

Click here to view : Safety and security