Gabon

Ecotourism 

Ecotourism is safe in Gabon if you:

• use common sense
• travel with a reputable tour company
• don’t venture too far from your group

Driving permit

To drive in Gabon, you need both:

• a valid Australian driver’s licence
• an International Driving Permit (IDP)

You must obtain your IDP before leaving Australia.

Road travel

You’re 4 times more likely to be killed in a motor vehicle accident in Gabon than in Australia.

Hazards include:

• poorly maintained roads
• poorly maintained and overloaded vehicles
• local driving practices
• poor lighting and road signs, especially outside urban areas

Travel outside of major urban centres usually requires a 4WD vehicle.

Towing and repair services aren’t common outside Libreville.

There are police roadblocks throughout the country. You may be asked to show identity and motor vehicle registration papers.

Check you have adequate travel insurance cover before driving.

If you hire a vehicle, confirm with your rental company what you’re required to carry in your vehicle, such as:

• licensing documents
• proof of insurance
• safety equipment such as a fire extinguisher

To reduce your risks if you plan to drive:

• get to know local traffic laws and practices
• be alert to pedestrians, animals and other hazards on the road
• avoid travelling at night
• get local advice on road conditions, especially during the rainy season

If you’re involved in a traffic accident, go to the nearest police station to avoid possible confrontations.

More information:

Motorcycles

Your travel insurance policy may not cover you when riding a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

Taxis are generally safe, but they often pick up multiple passengers and take indirect routes.

To reduce risks when using taxis:

• negotiate the fare with the driver before entering the taxi
• avoid using taxis alone or at night
• ask the driver not to pick up other passengers
• only use authorised taxis
• use hotel taxi and limousine services if they’re available

Public transport

Buses and trains in Gabon are reasonably safe.

Services are infrequent.

More information:

Boat travel

Armed robbery and piracy against commercial shipping has occurred off the coast of Gabon and across the Gulf of Guinea.

When travelling by boat:

• check the International Maritime Bureau (IMB) piracy reports
• take appropriate security precautions
• be alert to threats

Air travel

DFAT doesn’t provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Gabon’s air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

Read the original advice at SmartTraveller.gov.au by Australian Government