Risk level(s)

Safety and security

Crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, purse snatching and vehicle break-ins, is common, particularly in markets, transportation hubs and areas frequented by tourists. Do not show signs of affluence. Resisting a robbery can lead to further violence.

Although rare, violent crime occurs, including business and residential robberies and armed attacks, particularly in Libreville and Port-Gentil. Remain alert to your surroundings and avoid walking alone after dark, even in places visited by tourists. Avoid walking alone in isolated areas, including beaches, particularly at night.

There have also been occurrences of theft from parked cars targeting foreigners. Keep car doors locked, windows up and your belongings out of sight.

Fraud

Cases of attempted fraud are frequent.

Fraud involving the use of a credit card or automated banking machines (ABM) occurs in Gabon. Credit card holders should be cautious when making a payment with their credit card and monitor their transaction statements regularly. Use ABMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business, avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature, cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN and check any unauthorized transactions on your account statements.

See our Overseas Fraud page for more information on scams abroad.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations occur and have the potential to suddenly turn violent. They can lead to significant disruptions to traffic and public transportation. Avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings, follow the safety instructions of local authorities and monitor local media.

Road safety

Driving can be hazardous. Outside urban areas, road conditions are poor and there are very few road signs. Insufficient lighting and overloaded vehicles also pose hazards. If possible, use a four-wheel-drive vehicle, particularly outside urban areas.

In the event of a traffic accident, proceed to the nearest police station to avoid possible confrontations. Cooperate with local authorities and avoid travelling after dark.

Towing and repair services are not widely available outside Libreville.

Public transportation

Public transportation such as trains or buses are available and are generally safe. The Trans-Gabon Railway offers a passenger train service that runs from Libreville to Franceville and includes stops in Ndjolé, Booué and Lastoursville.

If taking taxis in the cities, negotiate the price before getting in the cab. Taxi drivers may at times pick up more than one fare at a time. Drivers may charge more if they don’t pick up any other fares during your ride. Most taxi drivers automatically double their fares after 9 pm. Avoid taking taxis alone, particularly at night.

Sea travel

Pirate attacks occur in coastal waters and, in some cases, farther out at sea. Mariners should take appropriate precautions. For additional information, consult the Live Piracy Report published by the International Maritime Bureau.

Air travel

The Government of Canada does not assess foreign domestic airlines’ compliance with international aviation safety standards. See Foreign domestic airlines for more information.

General safety information

Ensure that personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents are secure at all times.

Tourist facilities are limited outside the capital. Ecotourism is generally safe; however, you should make arrangements only with reputable companies and not venture from your organized tour group.

Entry/exit requirements

It is the sole prerogative of every country or territory to determine who is allowed to enter or exit. Canadian consular officials cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet entry or exit requirements. The following information has been obtained from the Gabonese authorities and is subject to change at any time. The country- or territory-specific entry/exit requirements are provided on this page for information purposes only. While every effort is made to provide accurate information, information contained here is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, express or implied. The Government of Canada assumes no responsibility, and shall not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided. It is your responsibility to check with the Embassy of the Gabonese Republic and its consulates for up-to-date information.

Passport

Canadians must present a passport to visit Gabon, which must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of expected departure from that country. Prior to travelling, ask your transportation company about its requirements related to passport validity, which may be more stringent than the country's entry rules.

Temporary passport holders may be subject to different entry requirements. Check with diplomatic representatives for up-to-date information.

Official (special and diplomatic) passport holders must consult the Official Travel page, as they may be subject to different entry requirements.

Visas

Canadians must be in possession of a visa to visit Gabon. Consult the Embassy of the Gabonese Republic for information on how to obtain a visa.

Tourist/Family visits visa: Required
Business visa: Required
Transit visa: Required

If you reside in Gabon, you must obtain an exit visa a few weeks before departure.

Children and travel

Children need special documentation to visit certain countries. See Children for more information.

Yellow fever

See Health to obtain information on this country’s vaccination requirements.

Health

Medical services and facilities

Medical facilities are adequate in major cities but are very limited elsewhere in the country. Even where facilities are well-equipped, there may be a shortage of staff to assist you. Upfront payment is generally required. Medical evacuation, which can be very expensive, may be necessary in the event of serious illness or injury. Make sure you have travel insurance that covers all medical expenses, including hospitalization abroad and medical evacuation, in case of illness or injury.

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws & culture

You are subject to local laws. See Arrest and detention for more information.

Identification

Be prepared to show identification to local authorities. Always carry originals of your passport, visa and migration card, as you may be asked to prove your identity and date of entry into the country. Failure to provide internationally recognized identification could result in detention.

Driving

An international driving permit is recommended but, along with a Canadian driver’s licence, can only be used for the first 30 days of a visit in Gabon.

Drivers must carry:

• a valid licence
• proof of insurance
• proof of inspection
• a reflective vest and an emergency triangle
• a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit

The use of cellular telephones while driving is prohibited.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Gabon. However, Canadian officials may be limited in their ability to provide you with consular services if local authorities consider you a Gabonese citizen. You should always travel using your valid Canadian passport and present yourself as Canadian to foreign authorities at all times to minimize this risk. You may also need to carry and present a Gabonese passport for legal reasons, for example to enter and exit the country (see Entry/exit requirements to determine passport requirements). Citizenship is determined solely by national laws, and the decision to recognize dual citizenship rests completely with the country in which you are located when seeking consular assistance. See Travelling as a dual citizen for more information.

Illegal activities

Penalties for possession and use of illegal drugs are strict and usually include jail sentences.

Photography of military installations, presidential palaces, airports and other government buildings is strictly prohibited.

LGBTQ2 travellers

Although the laws of Gabon do not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex, homosexuality is not socially tolerated. LGBT travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Gabon.

See Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and two-spirit Canadians abroad for more information.

Money

The currency is the African Financial Community CFA franc (or XAF bank code).

Exchange rates are those quoted by the Bank of Central African States. Euros and American dollars are widely accepted, but high exchange charges may apply. Credit cards are accepted only in Libreville’s large hotels, restaurants and supermarkets.

ABMs are available, but cash withdrawals are limited. If possible, use cash for all transactions.

Natural disasters & climate

The rainy seasons extend from October to mid-December and mid-February to May. Some roads outside urban areas may be impassable during these periods. Monitor local weather reports and plan accordingly.

Assistance

Local services

 Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada in Yaoundé, Cameroon and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.