Group trips to Gabon
Our organized trips to Gabon
Gabon is a Central African republic on the Atlantic coast, a sparsely populated country where rainforests cover nearly ninety percent of the land and a progressive national park system protects one of Africa's most biodiverse ecosystems. It stands out for forest elephants on empty beaches, lowland gorilla tracking, and a small but memorable surfing scene. Track lowland gorillas in Loango National Park and watch elephants swim in the surf, spot mandrills and red river hogs in Lope National Park, birdwatch the Ivindo River rainforests and Kongou Falls, visit the colonial Saint Michael Cathedral in Libreville, and surf the empty breaks of Pongara. Try nyembwe chicken and manioc leaves. Gabon suits eco-travelers, safari enthusiasts, primate trackers, and adventurous photographers willing to pay more for remote, low-volume experiences.
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FAQs about Gabon
Find out the entry requirements for Gabon, and, if needed, apply for your visa through our partner Sherpa.
Before traveling, always remember to check the government website of your country of origin for updates on the entry requirements for Gabon – you wouldn’t want to stay home due to a bureaucratic detail!
- UK residents: review the FCDO Travel Advice.
- US residents: consult the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Other residents: refer to your government or local consulate's travel advice.
Gabon is in the West Africa Time Zone, which is GMT+1. Gabon does not observe daylight saving time, so the time difference remains constant throughout the year. If it's 12pm in the UK, it will be 1pm in Gabon. If it's 12pm in New York, USA, it will be 6pm in Gabon. Keep this in mind when planning your activities or making calls.
Gabon uses the Central African CFA Franc (XAF) as its currency. The daily exchange rate is approximately:
- 1 GBP to 790 XAF
- 1 USD to 620 XAF
- 1 EUR to 655 XAF
You can exchange currency at local banks, currency exchange offices, or some hotels in major cities. Always check for the latest rates as they can fluctuate.
You can pay in Gabon using credit cards, which are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas. Visa and MasterCard are the most commonly accepted. However, it is a good idea to have some cash on hand for:
- Smaller shops
- Markets
- Rural areas where card payment might not be an option
ATMs are available in larger cities, but not always reliable, so withdrawing cash in advance is recommended.
Tipping in Gabon is not mandatory, but it's appreciated for good service. In restaurants, you can leave around 10 percent of the bill as a tip if you were happy with the service. For taxi drivers, it's common to round up the fare. Hotel staff, like porters and housekeeping, would also appreciate a small tip for their services. It's a nice gesture to show your appreciation, but remember it's not a strict rule, so don't worry too much if you forget!
In Gabon, the internet can be a bit hit or miss, especially outside major cities. We suggest you buy a local SIM card for more reliable connectivity. You can find SIM cards from providers like Airtel or Gabon Telecom at the airport or in major cities. Wi-Fi is generally available in hotels and some cafes, but it may not be very fast. A local SIM or e-SIM data plan will make it easier for you to stay connected while traveling around Gabon.
In Gabon, the official language is French. It's widely spoken across the country. You might also hear some local languages, with Fang and Myene being common among them. Here are a few useful French expressions you might hear or use:
- Hello: Bonjour
- Thank you: Merci
- Please: S'il vous plaît
- How much?: Combien ça coûte?
- Excuse me: Excusez-moi
These phrases can be handy during your trip, especially in markets or when asking for directions!
In Gabon, you'll find Type C and Type E plugs. These plugs are different from those used in the UK and the USA, so it's a good idea to bring a universal adapter. The electrical voltage is 220V with a frequency of 50Hz. Make sure your devices are compatible with this voltage to avoid any issues.
In Gabon, the main religion is Christianity, with Roman Catholicism being the largest denomination. Protestant and other Christian groups are also present. While Christianity is predominant, traditional African religions still hold cultural significance. Gabon celebrates religious holidays like Christmas and Easter, which are widely observed with festivities and gatherings.
For your trip to Gabon, you'll want to be prepared for a tropical climate. Here’s what you should pack in your backpack:
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Clothing:
- Lightweight shirts and t-shirts
- Long-sleeved shirts for evenings and mosquito protection
- Shorts and light pants
- A light rain jacket or poncho
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Shoes:
- Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
- Sandals or flip-flops
- Waterproof shoes if you plan on exploring nature
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Accessories and technology:
- Sunglasses and a hat for sun protection
- A travel guidebook or map
- Camera and extra batteries
- Portable power bank
- Universal adapter for charging electronics
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Toiletries and medication:
- Basic toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Basic first-aid kit
- Common travel medication like anti-diarrheal, pain relievers, and antihistamines
Gabon has a tropical climate with two main seasons: the wet season and the dry season. Here's a quick breakdown:
- Wet Season: October to May, with heavy rainfall especially between November and April. Expect high humidity and temperatures usually between 25°C to 30°C.
- Dry Season: June to September, with less rain and cooler temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C.
The best time to visit Gabon is during the dry season when the weather is more pleasant for outdoor activities.