Gabon
Gabon travel guide for Americans
Americans must obtain an e‑visa before arrival (apply online, $50, 5‑day processing); if the e‑visa is unavailable, apply at the US Embassy in Libreville. Change to a visa‑on‑arrival only if the e‑visa system is down.
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GuideGabon
Key facts
- Visa requiredcheck
- e‑visa $50, 5‑day processing (check)
- Currency
- Central African CFA franc (XAF)
- Plug types
- C, E – 220 V 50 Hz
- Tipping
- 5–10 % in restaurants, tip box in lodges
- Emergency numberscheck
- Police 1730, Fire 18, SAMU 1300 (check)
Entry requirements for US citizens
Apply for an e‑visa via the official Gabon portal before you travel. The fee is about US$50 and processing takes roughly five business days. Print the approval and present it on arrival at Libreville airport.
If the e‑visa service is not issuing visas to US passports, you must obtain a visa at the US Embassy in Libreville (see Embassy section). No visa‑on‑arrival for US citizens.
US Embassy in Gabon
Location: Rue du 20 Août, Libreville. Open weekdays 8:30‑12:30 and 13:30‑16:30 local time.
Contact: +241 01 71 28 00. Email: [email protected] (check).
Services: passport assistance, visa‑on‑arrival queries, emergency assistance for US nationals.
Typical travel costs (USD estimate)
Round‑trip flight from New York to Libreville: US$1,200 – 1,500 (economy, check).
Mid‑range lodge (per night, including meals and transfers): US$150 – 250.
Meals at local restaurants: US$5 – 15 per person.
Domestic flights or charter to parks: US$200 – 400 per segment.
Overall 10‑day budget: US$2,500 – 3,500 (excluding shopping and optional activities).
Flights and time difference
Main international gateway: Libreville International Airport (LBV).
Typical connections: New York (JFK) → Paris (CDG) → Libreville, total travel time 15‑18 h including layover.
Gabon is UTC+1 year‑round; New York is UTC‑5 (UTC‑4 in summer), so expect a 5‑6 hour difference.
Power and plugs
Plug types C and E are used. Voltage is 220 V at 50 Hz. Bring a universal adapter and, if your devices are not dual‑voltage, a voltage converter.
Tipping etiquette
Not expected at street stalls. In restaurants leave 5–10 % of the bill. Lodge staff often have a tip box; small amounts are appreciated.
Emergency contacts
Police: 1730
Fire: 18
Medical (SAMU): 1300
US Embassy (consular assistance): +241 01 71 28 00
Questions people ask
Do Americans need a visa for Gabon?
Yes. Apply for an e‑visa online before you travel (about US$50, 5‑day processing). If the e‑visa is unavailable, obtain a visa at the US Embassy in Libreville.
How much does a trip to Gabon cost in USD?
A 10‑day mid‑range itinerary typically costs US$2,500 – 3,500, including flights, accommodation, meals and internal transfers (prices vary).
Where is the nearest United States embassy in Gabon?
The US Embassy is in Libreville, Rue du 20 Août. Phone +241 01 71 28 00; open weekdays 8:30‑12:30 and 13:30‑16:30.
What plug type does Gabon use?
Gabon uses plug types C and E with 220 V, 50 Hz power.
Is tipping expected in Gabon?
Tipping is not required at street food stalls. In restaurants leave 5–10 % and consider a small tip for lodge staff via the tip box.
Verify with the official source
Draft, not field-verified
Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
Ask about Gabon
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