Living in Gabon: the ultimate expat guide

Foreign nationals entering Gabon must obtain the appropriate visa for their situation. The country has modernized its system with an e-visa platform that streamlines applications significantly. Applications are processed online through the official portal evisa.dgdi.ga, with responses typically delivered within 72 hours. This digital approach allows you to prepare your relocation from your home country efficiently.

Available Visa Categories

Gabon offers several visa types depending on your length of stay and purpose. The standard e-Visa Tourism permits stays from 1 to 3 months with single entry. It costs EUR 70 (XAF 45,000) plus EUR 15 processing fees. This visa remains valid for 30 days after issuance and only permits entry through Léon Mba International Airport in Libreville.

For those planning frequent trips, the 6-month Multiple Entry e-Visa provides greater flexibility. Priced at EUR 185 (XAF 120,000) plus EUR 15 processing fees, it allows multiple entries and exits during the validity period. Notably, a promotional measure for summer 2025 offers free tourist e-visas from July 15 to September 15 to boost tourism.

Business and Study Visas

Professionals relocating for work require a Business Visa. Applications necessitate an invitation letter from a Gabonese company plus an employer letter. Like all visas, your passport must remain valid for at least 6 months, and you'll need to provide 2 passport photos and a yellow fever vaccination certificate, which is mandatory for entry.

Students must apply for a Student Visa within 30 days of arrival in Gabon. This visa requires annual renewal and mandates registration with local police within 7 days of arrival. It's important to note that student visas do not authorize employment.

E-Visa Application Process

The online procedure is straightforward and follows several steps. After completing the form on the official portal, upload a copy of your passport (valid minimum 6 months) and a recent color photo sized 35x45mm (taken within the last 6 months). Once submitted, the processing time is 72 hours, after which you'll receive an electronic travel authorization.

Visa payment occurs upon arrival when your e-visa sticker is issued. It's crucial to respect the arrival date specified on your authorization: traveling before this date may result in deportation under Law N°5/86 of June 18, 1986. Some countries benefit from bilateral visa exemption agreements with Gabon, so check the updated list on the Directorate General of Documentation and Immigration website.

Residence Permits and Long-Term Stay

Once in-country with a long-stay visa or as part of a professional relocation, you'll need to pursue residence permit procedures. Tax residents are defined as individuals who own, rent, or have usufruct rights to property in Gabon, those whose principal residence is in Gabon, or persons present more than 6 months per year. This definition carries significant tax implications, as residents are taxed on worldwide income while non-residents are only taxed on Gabonese-source income.

Gabon's labor market presents unique characteristics tied to the country's resource-based economy. While the unemployment rate stands at 20.40% as of 2023, Gabon continues attracting qualified international workers in specific sectors. This situation stems from local skill gaps and demand for technical expertise. Average net monthly salary reaches XAF 250,000 (approximately USD 380), though this varies significantly by sector and qualifications.

The Gabonese economy features a GDP per capita of USD 8,384, positioning the country among Sub-Saharan Africa's most prosperous nations. Nominal GDP totals USD 17.2 billion, driven primarily by extractive industries and the service sector. For international professionals, opportunities concentrate in areas where global expertise is valued.

High-Demand Sectors

The oil and energy sector dominates Gabon's economy. As Africa's 5th largest oil producer, the country generates 43% of its GDP and 80% of exports from petroleum. Industrial production reaches 244,000 m³ daily, with 27.8% of electricity generated from fossil fuels. International oil companies operating in-country regularly recruit engineers, geologists, and specialized technicians.

Mining forms the second economic pillar. The city of Moanda hosts one of the world's most significant manganese mines, operated by COMILOG which exports millions of tons annually. Gabon's subsoil also contains uranium and other minerals. Forestry, historically the primary economic sector before oil discovery, remains significant with precious timber exports transiting through the ports of Port-Gentil and Libreville.

The services sector represents the main private employer and offers opportunities in finance, telecommunications, consulting, and hospitality. Rapid urban development creates growing demand for professionals in real estate, construction, and infrastructure development.

Starting a Business

Gabon's business environment requires improvement, as evidenced by its 169th position in the World Bank's Doing Business ranking. Nevertheless, the government has implemented several fiscal incentives to encourage entrepreneurship and investment. A 20% tax credit applies to gross salaries of newly hired Gabonese employees, with minimum employment requirements based on company size.

Industrial and export companies can benefit from deferred VAT payment on imports exceeding certain values. A preferential tariff with a reduced rate of 5% on duties and taxes applies to imported equipment valued over XAF 100 million, intended for existing companies increasing production capacity. These measures aim to stimulate industrialization and economic diversification.

The following table presents key labor market indicators essential for understanding the local economic context.

Sources: Trading Economics, Numbeo, Skuad

Gabon's tax system follows principles similar to many developed countries, with some local particularities. International professionals must understand these rules to optimize their financial situation and meet obligations. The distinction between resident and non-resident tax status is fundamental: residents are taxed on worldwide income, while non-residents only pay tax on Gabonese-source income.

Personal Income Tax

The Impôt sur le Revenu des Personnes Physiques (IRPP) uses a progressive system with family quotient. Calculations include a 20% deduction on gross taxable income, capped at XAF 10 million annually. The number of tax parts varies by family situation: singles count as 1 part, married couples as 2 parts, and dependent children increase the quotient, with a maximum of 6 children counted. Tax rates reach up to 35% depending on income brackets.

In addition to IRPP, the Taxe Complémentaire sur Traitements et Salaires (TCTS) applies at 5% on salaries, benefits, and emoluments. However, income up to XAF 150,000 per month is exempt. A strict rule prohibits employers from reimbursing IRPP and TCTS to employees, as this practice is considered tax fraud.

Corporate Tax

The standard corporate income tax rate is 30%. Strategic sectors like oil and mining face an increased rate of 35%. Companies benefit from a 20% tax credit on gross salaries of newly hired Gabonese employees, encouraging local hiring. Deferred VAT payment measures exist for industrial and export companies on certain imports.

Value Added Tax and Other Levies

The standard Value Added Tax (VAT) rate is 18%. A reduced rate of 10% applies to certain essential goods and services. Rent paid by companies is subject to withholding tax at 10% for residential property rentals and 20% for commercial rentals.

Social charges represent a significant cost. Mandatory employer contributions include the Caisse Nationale de Sécurité Sociale (CNSS) at 17.5% of gross salary, CNAMGS (health insurance) at 5%, and CNR (pension) at 4.5%. Employees also contribute 2.5% for CNSS, 2.5% for CNAMGS, and 2% for CNR. A 10% tax on mobile telecommunications operator revenues specifically finances CNAMGS.

Customs Duties and Additional Taxes

Gabon applies customs duties according to CEMAC (Economic and Monetary Community of Central Africa) common external tariff. Rates generally range from 5% to 30% depending on goods. A special import tax (TSI) adds to customs duties. Imported vehicles face specific duties calculated based on age and engine capacity.

Property tax applies to built and unbuilt properties, with rates varying by location and use. Housing tax applies to property occupants, whether owners or tenants. These local taxes finance municipal budgets and contribute to urban infrastructure development.

Gabon's healthcare system has seen significant improvements in recent years, particularly through universal coverage implementation. The Caisse Nationale d'Assurance Maladie et de Garantie Sociale (CNAMGS), established in 2007, forms the cornerstone of this system. It currently covers 99% of people living below the poverty line and 45% of the total population, representing over 450,000 active beneficiaries. This mandatory coverage for all formal sector employees guarantees access to basic healthcare.

Hospital Infrastructure and Facilities

Gabon's hospital network includes public and private facilities concentrated mainly in major cities. In Libreville, the Centre Hospitalier de Libreville (CHL) serves as the main public hospital with several hundred beds. The Omar Bongo Ondimba Military Teaching Hospital also provides quality care. In the private sector, Polyclinique El-Rapha and Clinique Mandji are recognized for their modern medical equipment.

In Port-Gentil, the Jeanne Ebori General Hospital serves the country's second city and its petroleum region. In Franceville, the Sino-Gabonese General Hospital features modern equipment and handles complex cases. Bongolo Hospital, located in Ngounié province, deserves special mention as a Christian medical facility offering quality care, particularly in surgery and obstetrics, with over 8,000 annual consultations.

Medical Services and Available Specialties

Major Gabonese cities host specialized medical centers covering most disciplines. Services include cardiology, radiology, laboratory analysis, general surgery, and maternity. Some facilities like the Sino-Gabonese Hospital offer CT scanners and 4D ultrasounds. Care quality varies by establishment, with private clinics generally providing superior service levels at higher rates.

For serious pathologies requiring complex interventions, some expatriates choose medical evacuation to neighboring countries with more developed healthcare infrastructure, such as South Africa or Europe. This practice, common in the region, explains the importance of comprehensive insurance coverage including medical evacuations.

Private and Supplemental Health Insurance

While CNAMGS provides baseline coverage, many international professionals subscribe to supplemental international health insurance. These private policies enable access to top medical facilities, medical evacuations when necessary, and treatment abroad. International insurers offer packages tailored to Central African expatriates, with coverage levels varying by budget.

Private insurance costs depend on numerous factors: age, health status, desired coverage level, and medical evacuation inclusion. Comparing multiple offers before committing is recommended. Some employers include international health coverage in expatriate compensation packages, representing a considerable advantage.

Vaccinations and Prevention

Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for entering Gabon and must be presented during visa applications. Other vaccinations are strongly recommended: hepatitis A and B, typhoid, tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis, and for rural areas, rabies vaccination. Antimalarial prophylaxis is advised as malaria remains endemic throughout the country.

Prevention measures include using impregnated mosquito nets, anti-mosquito repellents, and vigilance regarding drinking water (prioritize bottled water). The hot and humid equatorial climate favors certain tropical diseases, emphasizing the importance of rigorous hygiene and regular medical monitoring.

Education in Gabon offers several options for international families, from the local francophone system to international schools. The country has made education compulsory and free for all children aged 6 to 16, with a system largely inspired by the French model. This cultural and linguistic proximity facilitates integration for francophone children. The literacy rate reaches 85%, among the highest in Sub-Saharan Africa.

The Gabonese School System

Gabon's education system follows a three-cycle path. Primary education welcomes children aged 6 to 11 for six years. Secondary education divides into two cycles: the first cycle (middle school) lasting 4 years, followed by the second cycle (high school) lasting 3 years leading to the baccalaureate. Higher education comprises universities and colleges.

Omar Bongo University in Libreville, Université des Sciences et Techniques de Masuku in Franceville, and Université des Sciences de la Santé constitute the main higher education institutions. These public universities offer training in various disciplines, though their capacity remains limited relative to growing demand.

International and French Schools in Libreville

The capital concentrates most international establishments favored by expatriate families. Lycée Français Victor Hugo represents the most reputable institution, following the French National Education curriculum completely. It welcomes students from kindergarten through high school and prepares for the French baccalaureate. Accredited by AEFE (Agency for French Education Abroad), it guarantees pedagogical continuity for children who may continue their education in France or other francophone countries.

International School of Gabon provides English-language instruction following the international curriculum. It is authorized to deliver the International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme, recognized worldwide. This institution particularly suits anglophone families or those seeking bilingual education for their children. Annual tuition fees vary by level, ranging from EUR 7,000 to 12,000.

École Ruban Vert distinguishes itself through its alternative pedagogical approach inspired by the Montessori method. It welcomes children from early childhood and offers a personalized learning environment. Other establishments like American School of Libreville and several private Catholic schools complete the capital's educational offerings.

Schools in Provincial Cities

Options narrow outside Libreville, but several establishments merit attention. In Franceville, Collège Saint-Exupéry follows the French curriculum and welcomes students from primary through middle school. In Port-Gentil, Lycée Français Blaise Pascal offers complete schooling from kindergarten through baccalaureate. In Moanda, Collège Henri-Sylvoz provides education according to the French system with annual fees between EUR 3,420 and 4,395.

These provincial establishments meet the needs of expatriate families working in mining and petroleum sectors, often based in these cities. Structures are generally smaller than in Libreville but maintain high educational standards.

Costs and Registration

Tuition fees at international schools represent a substantial budget for families. At Lycée Français Victor Hugo, expect between EUR 4,000 and 8,000 per year depending on grade level. International School of Gabon charges EUR 7,000 to 12,000 annually. These amounts generally include basic tuition fees, but additional costs may apply for extracurricular activities, textbooks, uniforms, and educational outings.

Registration typically occurs several months in advance, as places are limited and highly sought after. Contacting schools as soon as your relocation is confirmed is recommended. Required documents generally include previous years' report cards, birth certificate, identity photos, and updated vaccination records.

Securing suitable accommodation is a priority when relocating to Gabon. The real estate market, particularly in Libreville, presents specific characteristics with supply concentrated in certain neighborhoods and relatively high rents for regional standards. Most international professionals opt for rentals, with leases typically signed for one year with renewal options.

Available Property Types

Real estate offerings vary considerably by city and neighborhood. In Libreville, options include modern apartments in secure residences, individual villas with gardens, and upscale homes in premium neighborhoods. City center apartments offer proximity to shops and services, while suburban villas provide more space and tranquility.

Properties intended for expatriates generally feature modern comforts: air conditioning, running water, stabilized electricity with backup generators to offset occasional outages, equipped kitchens, and internet connectivity. Security represents an important criterion: 24/7 security guards, perimeter walls, automatic gates, and alarm systems are common in upscale residences.

Popular Neighborhoods in Libreville

Certain capital neighborhoods concentrate expatriate populations due to their security, infrastructure, and proximity to international schools. The Batterie IV district is particularly sought after for its modern villas, security, and tranquility. La Sablière also attracts numerous international residents with its secure residences and easy city center access.

The Bord de Mer neighborhood offers pleasant Atlantic Ocean views, appreciated for its restaurants and nightlife. Nzeng-Ayong is developing rapidly with new modern constructions. Nomba and Akébé constitute other options for those seeking good value while remaining well connected to essential services.

Rental Rates and Charges

Libreville rents vary significantly by property type and neighborhood. For a one-bedroom apartment in city center, expect approximately XAF 543,000 per month (range XAF 350,000-800,000). A similar apartment in suburbs averages XAF 300,000 (range XAF 200,000-450,000).

Families seeking more space turn to three-bedroom apartments. In city center, average rent reaches XAF 1,250,000 monthly (range XAF 800,000-1,800,000). In suburbs, this property type costs approximately XAF 1,000,000 (range XAF 500,000-1,500,000). Individual villas with gardens in residential neighborhoods can reach XAF 2 to 3 million monthly.

Rental charges typically include water, but electricity usually remains the tenant's responsibility. Utilities cost (electricity, water, waste) for an 85m² apartment averages XAF 70,000 monthly (range XAF 50,000-100,000). High-speed internet (60 Mbps or more) costs approximately XAF 40,000 per month.

Rental Procedures

Renting property in Gabon generally requires depositing a security deposit equivalent to 2 or 3 months' rent, plus payment of several months upfront (often 3 months). Landlords demand solid guarantees: employment contract, salary slips, and sometimes a joint guarantor. Companies relocating employees often negotiate directly with landlords and provide guarantees.

Visiting multiple properties before deciding and verifying overall property condition, plumbing, electricity, and equipment is recommended. Using a local real estate agency can facilitate procedures, though this incurs additional fees. The lease specifies rental conditions, each party's obligations, and termination procedures.

Purchasing Property

Real estate purchase in Gabon is possible for foreigners, though procedures can be complex. The new construction market is developing, particularly in Libreville's suburban areas. Average price per square meter for a city center apartment reaches approximately XAF 1,300,000 (range XAF 1,000,000-1,700,000). In suburbs, this price drops to approximately XAF 1,000,000/m² (range XAF 700,000-1,200,000).

Acquisition requires a Gabonese notary's intervention to establish the deed of sale. Notary fees, registration duties, and taxes add to the purchase price. Strongly recommended is engaging a local attorney knowledgeable in Gabonese real estate law to secure the transaction and verify the property's legal status.

An international move to Gabon requires meticulous organization and several months of advance planning. Between customs formalities, transporting your belongings, and adapting to your new life, each step deserves careful attention. Proper preparation enables a smooth transition and avoids costly or stressful surprises.

Complete Pre-Departure Checklist

1. Verify identity document validity: Ensure your passport and those of your family remain valid at least 6 months beyond your planned arrival date
2. Obtain your visa: Initiate the e-visa procedure at least one month before departure via the official portal evisa.dgdi.ga
3. Mandatory and recommended vaccinations: Get vaccinated against yellow fever (mandatory) and update hepatitis A and B, typhoid, tetanus vaccines
4. Subscribe to international health insurance: Compare offers and choose appropriate coverage ideally including medical evacuations
5. Cancel or suspend contracts: Electricity, gas, internet, phone, various insurances - anticipate notice periods
6. Arrange children's schooling: Enroll your children in chosen schools several months ahead, as places are limited
7. Arrange accommodation: If your employer doesn't handle this, identify temporary housing for initial weeks while finding permanent residence
8. Organize belongings transport: Request multiple quotes from international movers specializing in Central Africa, allow 6 to 8 weeks for sea freight
9. Detailed inventory for customs: List precisely all transported items with estimated values, this list will be essential for customs clearance
10. Sell or store what you're not taking: Sort between what merits shipping and what can be sold, donated, or stored
11. Prepare your finances: Inform your bank of your relocation, research opening a Gabonese bank account
12. Gather important documents: Birth certificates, family record book, diplomas, work certificates, medical records - make certified copies
13. Prepare complete medical kit: Regular medications in sufficient quantity, antimalarial treatment, first aid supplies
14. Adapt electronic devices: Gabon uses Type C (European) outlets with 220V, but bring multi-function adapters
15. Inform embassy or consulate: Register on the nationals' register to facilitate identification if needed

Transport Options and Timelines

Sea freight remains the most economical means for shipping large volumes. Allow 6 to 8 weeks between pickup in your home country and delivery in Libreville, plus customs clearance delays that can take 1 to 2 additional weeks. Movers generally offer 20 or 40-foot containers, or consolidation if your volume is reduced.

Air freight suits urgent situations or valuable items. Much more expensive, it nonetheless delivers your belongings within days. This option is often chosen for an initial shipment of essentials while awaiting sea container arrival. Some expatriates opt for mixed formula: bulk by sea, immediate necessities by air.

Customs Formalities

Customs clearance in Gabon can prove complex and time-consuming. You must present a detailed inventory of your belongings with estimated values, your employment contract or residence proof, and your visa. Personal effects and used furniture generally benefit from customs exemption for new residents, but duties may apply to new or valuable goods.

Strongly recommended is engaging a local customs broker who will handle customs procedures. These professionals know the procedures, have contacts in administration, and can significantly accelerate the process. Their service represents additional cost but avoids considerable hassle and delays.

Initial Days On-Site

Budget substantially for the first weeks. Between hotel or temporary accommodation, restaurant meals, taxi transportation, and first essential purchases, expenses accumulate rapidly. If your employer covers these costs, ensure you clearly understand reimbursement terms and limits.

Upon arrival, complete administrative formalities: police registration for your long-stay visa, opening a local bank account, obtaining a Gabonese SIM card. These procedures facilitated by your employer or relocation service will enable quick settlement and a good start to your new life.

Gabon offers exceptional natural and cultural wealth for international residents seeking discovery. With 80% of its territory covered by equatorial rainforest and 13 national parks, the country positions itself as a premier ecotourism destination. Activity diversity allows full enjoyment of leisure time, between nature, culture, and vibrant urban social life.

Exploring Nature and National Parks

Loango National Park constitutes one of Gabon's flagship destinations. Nicknamed "Africa's last Eden," it's unique worldwide for offering the possibility to observe elephants, buffalo, and hippos on Atlantic Ocean beaches. The park also shelters lowland gorillas, chimpanzees, leopards, and exceptional birdlife. Eco-lodges offer guided safaris and immersive nature stays.

Lopé National Park, UNESCO World Heritage listed, combines tropical forest and savanna in spectacular landscapes. You can observe large mandrill groups, forest elephants, and discover rock carvings testifying to ancestral human presence. Guided hikes allow appreciation of ecosystem diversity.

Crystal Mountains National Park delights trekking enthusiasts with its mountainous terrain, impressive waterfalls, and lush vegetation. Ivindo National Park shelters the spectacular Kongou Falls, among Central Africa's most powerful, accessible after a pirogue expedition on the Ivindo River. These preserved natural sites offer unforgettable experiences for adventure and wildlife photography lovers.

Water Activities and Beaches

Gabon's coastline stretches 800 kilometers and features numerous paradise beaches. In Libreville, Pointe Denis, accessible by maritime shuttle, offers fine sand beaches, seafood restaurants, and water sports possibilities. It's a popular weekend relaxation spot for families and friends.

Loango Bay enables deep-sea sport fishing, with potential catches of marlins, tunas, and swordfish. Surfing is developing on certain beaches with consistent waves, particularly around Port-Gentil. Kayak excursions through lagoons and mangroves offer peaceful approaches to aquatic wildlife and birds.

Cultural and Social Life

Major Gabonese cities offer dynamic cultural life blending African and French influences. In Libreville, the National Museum of Arts and Traditions exhibits masks, sculptures, and ritual objects from different ethnic groups. Mont-Bouët Artisan Village allows discovery of local crafts and authentic souvenir purchases: wood carvings, traditional fabrics, jewelry.

Gabon's music scene vibrates to varied rhythms, from traditional to modern. Bars and clubs in Libreville and Port-Gentil regularly host concerts and dance parties. Quartier Louis in Libreville concentrates restaurants, lounge bars, and nightclubs frequented by golden youth and the international community.

Gastronomy and Restaurants

Gabonese cuisine reflects the country's natural resource diversity. Traditional dishes include smoked fish, nyembwé (palm nut sauce), and various cassava-based preparations. Markets offer bushmeat though its consumption raises conservation questions. Seafood is abundant and delicious, particularly shrimp, crabs, and fresh fish.

Libreville counts numerous restaurants offering international cuisine: French, Lebanese, Chinese, Italian. Patio, L'Odika, and La Dolce Vita rank among expatriate-appreciated addresses for their pleasant atmospheres and refined cuisine. Restaurant prices vary, with options for all budgets, from affordable local maquis to high-end gastronomic establishments.

Sports Activities

International professionals access various sports facilities. Libreville's private clubs offer tennis, squash, fitness, and pools. Libreville Golf Club features an 18-hole course in verdant surroundings. Football and basketball courts are numerous, as Gabon is passionate about sports.

Scuba diving enthusiasts can explore Gabon's marine depths, rich in aquatic life. Some operators organize humpback whale watching outings between July and September, when these cetaceans come to reproduce in the warm Guinea Gulf waters. These maritime excursions constitute privileged moments to observe these ocean giants in their natural environment.

Settling in Gabon involves adapting to a specific lifestyle marked by equatorial climate, francophone culture, and particularities of a developing Central African nation. Daily life presents notable differences from Europe or North America, but international residents generally find their bearings quickly, especially in major cities where modern infrastructure is developing.

Climate and Environment

Gabon experiences an equatorial tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and strong humidity year-round. Libreville, located exactly on the equator, displays average temperatures between 24°C and 30°C. The rainy season extends from October to May with abundant precipitation, while the dry season from June to September offers more pleasant weather. Constant humidity requires special attention to food preservation, clothing maintenance, and electronic device functioning.

Transportation and Getting Around

In Libreville, transport options include collective and individual taxis, which constitute the most-used means by residents. A public transport ticket costs XAF 500, and a monthly pass runs approximately XAF 27,500. Individual taxis charge a base fare of XAF 750 then XAF 674 per mile. For waiting time, expect XAF 10,000 per hour.

Many international professionals opt to purchase or lease a personal vehicle, offering more freedom and comfort. A new vehicle costs between XAF 13 and 17 million. Gasoline runs approximately XAF 2,281 per gallon. Main roads in Libreville are adequately maintained but deteriorate in provinces and sometimes require a 4x4. Driving can be chaotic with traffic rules not always respected.

Food and Shopping

Supermarkets present in urban areas offer a range of local and imported products. Major chains like Casino or Leader Price enable shopping in good conditions. Imported European product prices remain high due to transport costs and customs duties. It's economical to buy fruits, vegetables, and fish at traditional markets where prices are more affordable and products fresh.

Local gastronomy offers specialties to discover. In Franceville, markets sell bushmeat (monkeys, pythons), a controversial practice but rooted in local culture. Coastal cities abound with excellent quality fish and seafood. Local coffee and cocoa crops produce quality products, with timber and rubber among exploited resources.

Communications and Connectivity

Gabon's telecommunications network has developed considerably. Main operators offer mobile packages including calls and data. A mobile plan with unlimited calls and 10GB data costs approximately XAF 20,000 monthly. Network coverage is good in main cities but can be limited in rural areas.

High-speed internet access (60 Mbps or more) is available in major cities for approximately XAF 40,000 monthly. Fiber optic connections are gradually developing in Libreville. Service quality can vary, with occasional outages. A 10% tax on mobile telecommunications operator revenues finances CNAMGS (health insurance system).

Cultural Diversity and Social Life

Gabon hosts a mosaic of tribal ethnic groups, each with their traditions, languages, and customs. Although French is the official language spoken by all urban residents, this cultural diversity enriches daily life. Christianity dominates religiously, with well-attended Catholic and Protestant churches, but traditional beliefs persist in some regions.

Gabonese society is characterized by strong urbanization (86% urban population) creating modern urban culture coexisting with rural traditions. Gabonese people are generally welcoming toward foreigners, particularly francophones with whom communication is easy. Participating in local events, respecting customs, and showing interest in culture facilitates integration.

Security and Precautions

Libreville and major cities remain relatively safe compared to other African capitals, but basic precautions should be observed. Avoid isolated peripheral neighborhoods at night, don't display ostentatious signs of wealth, and secure personal belongings. Secure residences with security guards offer appreciable peace of mind.

In urban areas, risks mainly concern petty crimes like pickpockets in markets or snatch thefts. In provinces and rural areas, greater caution is required, particularly during road travel due to road conditions and wildlife that may cross. National parks always require professional guide accompaniment for safety and environmental respect reasons.

Cost of living in Gabon ranks in the upper range for Sub-Saharan Africa, primarily due to high prices in Libreville. Import dependence for many consumer products explains these rates. International professionals should budget substantially, especially for housing and children's schooling. However, with an appropriate compensation package, living standards remain comfortable and allow full enjoyment of the country's amenities.

Data presented below comes from Numbeo and corresponds to average prices observed in Libreville as of August 2025. These amounts provide reliable guidance for establishing your monthly budget. Indicated ranges reflect variations by neighborhood, brands, and product or service quality.

Monthly Expenses for Single Person

The following table details typical expenses for a single person living in Libreville, excluding rent costs. These amounts include food, transportation, leisure, and regular charges.

Source: Numbeo (August 2025)

Budget for Family of Four

Families must anticipate substantially higher budgets, particularly due to larger housing, school fees, and increased food consumption. The table below presents a realistic estimate for a couple with two school-aged children.

Source: Numbeo (August 2025) and estimates based on average international school fees

Indicative Prices for Common Products and Services

To refine your understanding of daily living costs, here are examples of prices in Libreville. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs approximately XAF 10,000, while a meal for two at a mid-range establishment with three courses totals XAF 45,000. A fast-food meal (McMeal) runs XAF 7,500.

At supermarkets, expect approximately XAF 2,000 for a liter of milk, XAF 1,500 for a dozen eggs, and XAF 2,500 for a kilo of rice. Local fruits and vegetables remain affordable at markets, but imported European products cost significantly more. A local beer in a bar runs XAF 600 per pint, a cappuccino XAF 3,500.

For transportation, a public transport ticket costs XAF 500, a monthly pass XAF 27,500. A taxi ride starts at XAF 750 (base fare) then XAF 674 per mile traveled. Gasoline costs approximately XAF 2,281 per gallon. Purchasing a new vehicle ranges from XAF 13 to 17 million depending on model.

Comparison with Other Destinations

Compared to other francophone African capitals, Libreville positions in the upper price range, at levels similar to Abidjan or Dakar. Rent and international school fees constitute the most expensive items. Conversely, local food and domestic services remain affordable. For an expatriate benefiting from an appropriate compensation package including housing and schooling, living standards are comfortable and allow savings while enjoying the country's amenities.