Gabon

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.  Speaking French is often necessary.

• Dial 1722 for police nationwide
• Dial 011-76-55-85 or 011-45-05-09 or 011-45-05-08 for police in Libreville
• Dial 011-55-29-12 or 011-55-22-36 or 011-55-22-54 for police in Port Gentil
• Dial 112 for fire nationwide
• Dial 18 or 011-76-15-20 for fire in Libreville
• Dial 07-63-93-63 or 01-56-27-75 for fire in Port Gentil
• Dial SAMU 1300 or SMUR CNSS: 1333 / +24166-60-40-34 or SMURA (Militaire): 1450 or SAMU SOCIAL: 1488 or TRANSMED: +24177701272 for ambulance 

Demonstrations

Demonstrations are common. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays, and during large events.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations.
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Crime

• Pick-pocketing, and theft of unattended possessions are the most common forms of crime visitors encounter.
• There have been reports of violent crime, including armed robbery and muggings.
• Vehicle break-ins and residential burglaries continue to be a problem in Libreville and Port Gentil.

Safety tips:

• Always carry identification to minimize the risk of harassment at police checkpoints.
• Avoid poorly lit streets and unfamiliar areas, especially at night.
• Avoid beaches after dusk.
• Carry a minimal amount of cash. Avoid wearing flashy or expensive jewelry, especially in markets and nightlife spots. In a robbery, comply with the attacker to avoid injury.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.  

If using dating apps or websites in Gabon:

• Criminals may use dating apps to target potential victims for robbery or assault.
• Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone. 
• Meet in a popular public place.
• Tell your family or friends all the details about the person you are meeting and how you met them (which app).
• Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in person. 
• Avoid locations where you can be isolated, like hotel rooms, private apartments, or houses.
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant.
• Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible.
• Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers.
• Have a communication plan with friends or family. Send updates to them on an agreed schedule. 

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 011-76-55-85 in Libreville and 011-55-22-54 in Port Gentil.

Review our information for Victims of Crime.

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care. 
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system. 
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance.
• U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the nearest U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance.

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications. 
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.
• Hobbyist drone registration is required to operate hobbyist drones in Gabon. Visit the Ministry of Civil Aviation for more information.

GPS

Prior to using GPS abroad:

• Research the route recommended by the GPS to make sure it’s safe.
• The fastest path may not be the safest.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is not well regulated:

• Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare.
• Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs.
• Staff may not be trained or certified.
• If you get injured, you will likely need to travel to a major city for appropriate medical care.
• First responders cannot reach remote areas in case of emergencies.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.
• Review our information on Travel Insurance. 

Language

• The official language of Gabon is French. English is not widely spoken or understood.

Identification

• You should always carry identification and proof of legal immigration status in Gabon.
• Examples of identification include a residence permit (carte de séjour), U.S. passport, or an authenticated photocopy of your U.S. passport’s biographic information page, and your Gabonese visa. City hall offices in Gabon can authenticate passport photocopies for a small fee.

Official corruption

• Official corruption is common, but paying bribes is strongly discouraged. Doing so may make you a target for more bribery requests.

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.
• U.S. citizens working or residing in Gabon must follow Gabonese immigration laws. Authorities may punish non-compliance with such laws with fines and up to 6 months’ imprisonment. Consult a Gabonese lawyer to assure compliance with immigration and residence laws.
• Taking photographs of the Presidential Palace, airport, and military or other government buildings is strictly forbidden.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Gabon seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.

Arrest notification

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws. 
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. 
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States. 

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice  

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources: 

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

• Homosexuality and gay marriage are illegal under Gabonese law.
• Civil society and media report that gay and lesbian individuals are subject to verbal abuse and assault. 
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers

The law in Gabon criminalizes rape for women and men and prohibits domestic violence. These laws are not enforced. Sexual harassment is common in Gabon.

The minimum age for marriage in Gabon is 15 for girls and 18 for boys. However, early marriages are common. The government does not prevent early marriages.

Review the following information:

• Women Travelers
• Marriage
• Victims of Crime

Human rights

According to the Department of State’s Human Rights Report, Gabon has the following human rights issues:

• Torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment
• Arbitrary arrest or detention
• Trafficking in persons including forced labor
• Child labor
• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Gabon Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency numbers

French is often required to request emergency services.

• Dial 1300 for ambulance services   

Ambulance services

• Ambulance services are not widely available. Training and response time of emergency responders may be poor. Injured or very ill travelers might prefer to take a taxi or their own car to the nearest major hospital. This option can be faster than waiting for an ambulance.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad.  Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Gabon. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Most care providers abroad only accept cash payments.
• Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment.
• Hospitals often need payment up front or proof of good insurance before providing treatment or admitting a patient. 
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance. If you purchase medical travel insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from your medical insurance. Maintain records of all health and administrative files. Be sure to follow their guidance and instructions for filing claims.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Vaccinations

A yellow fever vaccination is required for all travelers over 9 months old.

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies. 
• Hospitals and doctors often require payment upfront prior to service or admission.
• U.S. citizens have filed many complaints about unethical business practices. They have expressed concern about high prices and collection methods from some hospitals. Before agreeing to any medical care, travelers should gather full details on billing, pricing, and proposed medical procedures.  
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Generally, in hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight. Consider hiring a private nurse. Another option is to have family stay the night with the patient, especially a child.
• Patients must cover all costs for transfers to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.

Prescription medications

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
• Be sure to bring enough of your prescriptions (as well as over-the-counter medications) to last the duration of your trip.
• Check with the Gabon Ministry of Public Health to ensure the medication is legal in Gabon.
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls.
• Counterfeit medication is common and may not work, have the wrong strength, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Non-traditional medicine

• U.S. citizens have had serious complications or died while getting care from non-traditional “healers” and practitioners in Gabon. We strongly recommend against participating in bwiti or iboga root rituals. Make sure you have access to licensed emergency medical facilities in such cases.

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy

• If you are considering traveling to Gabon to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.
• Surrogacy is largely unregulated in Gabon with no clear legal protections for foreign intended parents. Surrogacy agreements may not be enforced by Gabonese courts.
• If you decide to pursue parenthood in Gabon via ART with a surrogate, consider hiring a reputable local attorney and be prepared for long and unexpected delays in documenting your child’s birth with local authorities and/or citizenship status. Be aware that individuals who attempt to circumvent local law risk legal consequences.  

Water quality and food safety

• Tap water is not safe to drink.
• In some locations, tap water is not available every day.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made using tap water.
• Eating uncooked vegetables and fruits can make you sick.
• Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling.
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Gabon.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow. For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Road conditions and safety

• All drivers and passengers should wear seat belts, lock doors, and keep windows closed.
• Use extreme caution when driving after dark. Roads to outlying cities are usually unpaved and in poor condition, have large potholes, lack road signs, have poor to non-existent streetlights, are frequented by timber-laden trucks, pedestrians, and animals.
• Construction work is generally poorly indicated.
• Drivers may change lanes or stop unexpectedly. Lane markings are frequently ignored.
• Use 4-wheel drive vehicles for travel beyond the paved road to Lambaréné, especially in the rainy season.
• Roadside assistance and emergency medical services are available in Libreville, but they may not be dependable. These services are nonexistent outside of the city.
• Service stations are available along main roads, but vehicle repair facilities are not always available.
• In the case of accidents, many passersby attempt to help but lack first-aid training. This can lead to potentially harmful actions that may hurt victims even more.
• Carrying spare tires, extra fuel, and other roadside tools is wise when driving. This is especially true in rural areas. Fuel stations and repair shops are rare between towns.

Traffic laws

• U.S. tourists must have a valid U.S. driver’s license and an international driver’s license to drive in Gabon.
• U.S. citizens residing or working in Gabon (holders of a carte de séjour) need a Gabonese driver’s license (permis de conduire),or must register their U.S. driver’s license with the Direction National de Transport Terrestre.
• The police may verify that the driver has all the required documentation and equipment if they stop a car on the road or at a police checkpoint.
• Travelers are routinely stopped at police checkpoints within cities and on roads to the interior. During routine stops, the police may occasionally seek bribes.
• Drivers frequently fail to signal when turning or changing lanes. They may pull into oncoming traffic to overtake slower vehicles without caution.
• Pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists (often used as "moto-taxis") are highly vulnerable. They account for a large proportion of road traffic injuries and deaths.
• It is against the law to use a cell phone while driving in Gabon.

Required items to keep in vehicles:

The following items must be always kept in the vehicle:

• Vehicle registration (carte grise)
• Proof of insurance (assurance)
• Proof of vehicle inspection (visite technique)
• Fire extinguisher (extincteur de feu)
• Triangles (triangles)
• First aid kit (boite de soins de premiers secours).

Safety tips:

If you are driving and stopped in traffic, check your rearview mirrors for potential trouble. When idling at a stop light or sign, maintain space between vehicles. This gives you room to escape if needed.

Thieves can open unlocked doors, even in daylight, to grab valuables. Always park in well-lit areas, ideally in parking lots with a security guard.

When driving a vehicle or as a passenger in a taxi, you should:

• Keep your belongings out of sight
• Ensure the doors are locked
• Fasten your seat belts
• Keep the windows rolled up

Taxis and ride-shares

• Taxi safety and maintenance vary widely. Informal, unregulated taxis are common throughout the city. 
• Select taxis in good condition and verify that there are passenger seatbelts. Avoid taxis in poor condition.
• Most major hotels will call an official taxi upon request.
• Unless you use a metered taxi, negotiate the fare and request sole use of the taxi with the driver before entering.
• You can book taxis using the smartphone app Gozem. It calculates fares by distance and eliminates the need for haggling. Rides on Gozem are also generally considered safer than hailing taxis because trips on Gozem are documented with registered drivers.
• You can pay for rides on Gozem with cash, credit card, or mobile money services such as Airtell Money or Moov Money.

Public and commercial transportation

• Avoid public transportation throughout Libreville due to the substantial risk of serious and fatal accidents. Public transport may lack proper safety equipment such as seat belts and headlights. It’s often overcrowded and some may be unlicensed.
• Drivers are often reckless. They make frequent stops to pick up passengers, drive at high speeds, and ignore traffic or road conditions.
• An inter-city rail system exists. It runs from Libreville to Franceville with stops at numerous small cities and towns along the way.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

Aviation safety oversight

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Gabon’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight.

• FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.  

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Gabon should check the following: 

• U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Advisories
• MARAD Active Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings