Best time to visit

The best time to visit Gabon is during the dry season, from June to September and December to January. These months offer more pleasant weather for travel and outdoor activities, with less rainfall and lower humidity. The wet season, from February to May and October to November, brings heavy rains and can make travel more difficult, especially to remote areas and national parks.

What to expect

Language: The official language of Gabon is French, used in government, education, and business.

Currency: The currency of Gabon is the Central African CFA franc (XAF).

Safety: Gabon is generally considered safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur, particularly in urban areas like Libreville and Port-Gentil. Travelers should avoid walking alone at night and be cautious with their belongings. It's also advisable to stay informed about the current political situation and any travel advisories.

Cuisine: Gabonese cuisine reflects a blend of traditional African ingredients and French culinary influences. Key dishes include: Poulet Nyembwe: Chicken cooked in palm nut sauce, often considered the national dish. Poisson Salé: Salted fish, typically served with rice or plantains. Brochettes: Skewers of grilled meat, commonly beef, chicken, or fish. Atanga: Also known as African pear or bush butter, often eaten with bread or used in cooking. Nyembwe: A rich, oily sauce made from the fruit of the African palm tree, used in various dishes. Banane Malaxée: Mashed bananas, typically served as a dessert or snack.