Gabon
Money in Gabon: currency, ATMs, cards and tipping
Use the Central African CFA franc (XAF), pegged 1 € = 655.957 XAF; bring cash for most purchases and a card for hotels in Libreville – tip 5‑10 % in restaurants and 1 000 XAF for guides.
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GuideGabon
Key facts
- Currency
- Central African CFA franc (XAF)
- Pegged to
- Euro (1 € = 655.957 XAF)
- ATMs
- Visa‑compatible, in Libreville, Port‑Gentil, Franceville
- Card acceptance
- Hotels and some restaurants in Libreville; limited elsewhere
- Typical tip
- 5‑10 % of bill or 1 000 XAF for guides
Currency and payment basics
Gabon uses the Central African CFA franc (XAF), a fixed‑rate currency linked to the euro (1 € = 655.957 XAF). Most shops, markets and transport accept cash only; ATMs that dispense XAF accept Visa and Mastercard and are found in Libreville, Port‑Gentil and Franceville.
Credit and debit cards work in larger hotels, upscale restaurants and some supermarkets in Libreville, but you should carry enough XAF for daily expenses, especially outside the capital.
- Bring euros in cash to exchange for XAF at banks or official exchange bureaus.
- Check ATM fees; many charge a flat 2 % plus a local currency conversion fee.
- Notify your bank of travel to Gabon to avoid card blocks.
Tipping guidelines
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. In restaurants, leave 5‑10 % of the bill if service is not included. For hotel staff, a small tip of 1 000‑2 000 XAF per bag is customary.
Guides and drivers usually expect a tip of about 1 000 XAF per day per person; increase for exceptional service or longer excursions.
| Service | Typical tip |
|---|---|
| Restaurant (no service charge) | 5‑10 % of bill |
| Hotel porter (per bag) | 1 000‑2 000 XAF |
| Guide/driver (per day) | 1 000 XAF |
Questions people ask
What currency is used in Gabon?
Gabon uses the Central African CFA franc (XAF), which is pegged to the euro at a fixed rate.
Should I use cash or a card in Gabon?
Cash is needed for most purchases; use a Visa or Mastercard for hotels and some restaurants in Libreville, but keep XAF on hand for markets and transport.
How much should I tip in Gabon?
Leave 5‑10 % in restaurants, 1 000‑2 000 XAF per hotel bag, and about 1 000 XAF per day for guides or drivers.
Where can I exchange money in Gabon?
Exchange euros at banks or official exchange bureaus in Libreville, Port‑Gentil and Franceville. Avoid street changers. ATMs dispense XAF directly.
Are there ATMs outside Libreville?
ATMs are mainly in Libreville, Port‑Gentil and Franceville. In smaller towns and national parks, bring enough cash for the whole stay.
Can I use US dollars in Gabon?
US dollars are not widely accepted. Bring euros to exchange or withdraw XAF from ATMs. Some lodges may quote in euros but expect payment in XAF.
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