Gabon Visa Requirements
For 🇪🇸 Spain passport holders
Spain passport holders must apply for an electronic visa (eVisa) online before traveling to Gabon.
Spanish citizens can apply for an e-visa online through the Gabonese government portal. The e-visa system is efficient and allows for multiple entries. Ensure you have all required documents ready before starting the application.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond stay
Blank Pages
2 page(s) required
Multiple Entry
Allowed
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Entry Conditions
Valid passport with at least 6 months validity, printed e-visa, proof of accommodation, return ticket, proof of sufficient funds, and yellow fever vaccination certificate.
Fines and potential detention. May complicate future visa applications.
Travel Essentials
Health & Safety
Safety Rating
Vaccinations
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Malaria prophylaxis, Rabies
Tap Water
Bottled water recommended
Safety Tips
Gabon is one of the more stable countries in Central Africa. Libreville is generally safe but petty crime exists. Take standard precautions against theft and avoid displaying valuables. Political demonstrations should be avoided. The interior regions are safe but remote. Wildlife areas require proper guides for safety.
Money & Costs
Currency
CFA Central African CFA Franc (XAF)
Daily Budget (USD)
Budget: $80 · Mid: $150 · Luxury: $350+
Tipping
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service. 10% in restaurants is appropriate. Tips for guides and lodge staff are customary on safari.
Practical Info
Power
Type C, 220V 50Hz
Driving
Right side
Emergency
1730 (Police), 18 (Fire), 1300 (Ambulance)
Getting There
Main Airports
Franceville (MVB) · Libreville (LBV) · Port-Gentil (POG)
Culture & Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Gabon is during the dry seasons: mid-May to mid-September (long dry season) and mid-December to mid-January (short dry season). These periods are ideal for wildlife viewing and forest trekking. The wet season brings heavy rains that can make roads impassable, but it is the best time to see nesting sea turtles (November-February).
Cultural Notes
Gabon has a rich cultural heritage with over 40 ethnic groups, the largest being the Fang. Traditional masks and sculptures are renowned worldwide. Music and dance play important roles in ceremonies, with traditional instruments like the ngombi harp. The Bwiti religion incorporates iboga, a psychoactive plant, in sacred rituals.
Insider Tips
French is the official language and essential for travel. The Central African CFA franc is the currency. ATMs are available in Libreville but scarce elsewhere - bring sufficient cash. Many national parks require advance booking. Respect wildlife viewing guidelines. Photography permits may be required for certain locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Gabon special for ecotourism?
Gabon is a premier ecotourism destination with 13 national parks covering 11% of the country. It hosts the world's largest population of forest elephants, significant western lowland gorilla populations, and is one of the best places to see surfing hippos at Loango National Park. The country has 800km of pristine coastline where sea turtles nest. Its commitment to conservation makes it unique in Africa.
Can I see gorillas in Gabon?
Yes, Gabon offers excellent gorilla trekking experiences. Loango National Park and Lopé National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site) both have habituated western lowland gorilla groups. The experience is more exclusive and less crowded than East African alternatives. Permits must be arranged in advance through authorized tour operators. The best viewing is during the dry season.
How do I get to Lopé National Park?
Lopé National Park is accessible by the Trans-Gabonais Railway from Libreville, a scenic 6-7 hour journey through rainforest. Alternatively, you can fly to Libreville and take a domestic flight to Lopé or drive (5-6 hours on improved roads). The park has several lodges and a research station. Advance booking is essential as facilities are limited.
What is the surfing hippos phenomenon?
At Loango National Park, hippopotamuses have adapted to the unique coastal environment and can be seen swimming in the ocean and playing in the waves - a behavior seen nowhere else on Earth. This remarkable phenomenon occurs along the beaches where the rainforest meets the Atlantic Ocean. The best time to witness this is during the dry season when hippos frequent the beaches.
Is Gabon expensive to visit?
Gabon is relatively expensive compared to many African destinations due to its oil-based economy, limited tourism infrastructure, and remote locations of wildlife areas. Expect to spend €150-350 per day depending on your comfort level. Eco-lodges in national parks can cost €200-500 per night. Budget options in Libreville exist but are limited. The unique wildlife experiences justify the cost for many visitors.