|
|
|
Guide:
- Gabon Travel Guide
- The Basics
- Attractions
- Health
- Contacts
- Visa & Passport
- Photos
- Phrases
- Flights to Gabon
Directory
The Basics
Travel Health: Tap water should not be drunk unless it has been boiled, and ice and uncooked fruits should also be avoided. Yellow fever vaccinations are required for all visitors over the age of one. Gabon is a malaria zone, and either mefloquine or doxycycline is recommended. There have been recent outbreaks of chikungunya fever and dengue fever, both transmitted by mosquito bites. No vaccine is available for either disease, but stringent anti-insect measures are recommended. Healthcare in Gabon is poor, and traveller's insurance is a good idea. Many doctors will expect cash up front, regardless of insurance.
Safety Information: Crime is an increasing problem in cities like Libreville and Port-Gentil, and precautions should be taken: avoid showing expensive jewellery, camera, and other valuables, and avoid walking alone or at night. Female travellers can expect unwanted attention from men, but are free to be firm in their refusal. Gabon's government is relatively stable; however there is still the possibility of demonstrations and rallies, which should be avoided where possible.
Local Customs: Drug possession is a serious offence in Gabon and punishment will include a prison sentence, even for tourists. Homosexuality is not widely accepted, and certain homosexual acts are illegal. Taking photographs of government buildings and military sites is prohibited.
Duty Free: Travellers to Gabon aged 17 and older may import the following items: three bottles of wine not exceeding three litres, one litre of liquor, 50g of perfume, two cameras, 10 rolls of film per camera, and gifts valued up to XA5,000. Men may bring 400 cigarettes or cigarillos/125 cigars/500g of tobacco, while women may only bring cigarettes. Those importing guns and ammunition are required to have a license from the Ministry of Home Affairs in Libreville.