gabon safe to travel

Traffic accidents are one of the greatest dangers in Gabon. HIV/AIDS is, unfortunately, a common disease in Gabon with 5.1% (1 in 20) of adults affected. Cameroon is not safe for solo female travelers. If you decide to go to Gabon, you should be aware that crime, poor road conditions, interruptions to power, and poor water quality are just some of the things tourists will have a problem with. Violent crime, including robberies and armed attacks, occurs, especially in Libreville and Port Gentil. Limit your movements as much as possible 5. There have been no recent events of terrorism in Gabon, but an event cannot be totally ruled out. Gabon shares land borders with 3 neighbouring states. On arrival, all passengers must take a compulsory Coronavirus (COVID-19) test at the airport. Current situation : 4.3 / 5. They can lead also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation. 3. avoid isolated or poorer areas of towns and walking alone at night. Every year, there are a number of serious and fatal accidents involving these taxis. Crowded urban areas are particularly dangerous at night, but don’t think that daytime will offer you any kind of safety as incidents in the middle of the day are also possible. Contact us for full details. To understand how this may impact cover under your policy, please go to our FAQs and select your country of residence. The information contained in this Travel Advice for Gabon is provided for information only. In the event of an emergency, the police should be your first point of contact. Even if you’re accompanied by someone, stay away from poorly lit and deserted streets and areas and from people that are visibly intoxicated or under the influence. Use extreme caution if you are driving here, as drivers are known for excessive speeding and reckless behavior. Don't walk alone or at night. Before you book, ask if your accommodation provides 24-hour security guards, locking doors, and safes to lock up valuables in each room. Our travel safety expert shares his top tips on road safety, health concerns, bribery, civil unrest, crime, politics, and corruption in Cameroon. Most visits by British nationals are trouble-free. As of Oct 07, 2019 there are travel warnings for Gabon; exercise a high degree of caution. Gabon isn’t a country known for many natural disasters, but occasional floods can cause substantial material and agricultural damage. Click the buttons below for more information on Safe Travel arrangements for arrival, transit or departure. Click here to get an offer for travel insurance. Here are a few things you should know to stay safe in Gabon. Contact your travel insurance provider in the case of an emergency for the best advice on where to go. Wealthy and underpopulated by Central African standards, which is not admittedly saying very much, Gabon is positively placid compared to neighbors like DR … Gabon is generally not that too safe of a destination, as there are many dangers that may befall an unsuspecting tourist – both in the form of petty and violent crime. Crime increases dramatically during peak holiday season in Gabon (May to September). Please note that not all content is translated or available to residents of all countries. You can use minibusses and taxis, but they are not safe at all, with every year many people falling victims to the accidents that occur on the roads and in these minibusses, the consequences of which are often fatal. and said the situation was under control following a string of arrests, How to Travel Safely During the COVID-19 Pandemic, Is Austria Safe? Important health and safety information about Gabon: diseases you should be aware of, vaccinations and medications you will need, the latest travel alerts, and more. You should: 1. take sensible personal security precautions and maintain a high level of vigilance in public places. Be aware of bush taxis (taxis-brousses) and minibusses (clandos), which are often in a state of disrepair and carry too many passengers, causing concern for safety standards. Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations 4. The structural integrity of roads throughout Gabon is generally in poor condition, Keep your doors locked, seat belts fastened, and windows up at all times, Do not roll down your window if someone approaches your car, Do not stop if you see rocks or logs in the middle of the road – this is a technique used throughout Africa for robbers to trick vehicles into stopping. Check this page for any recent changes or regions to avoid: Travel Advice and Advisories. There are some hotels that have safety measures in place, but not all are equal. Although there haven't been any terrorist attacks in Gabon's recent history, they shouldn't be ruled out so remain vigilant at all times. Our travel safety expert shares his top tips for you to stay safe while hiking solo. It is advisable not to travel alone so there is someone with you who can deal with any problems or … Crime, road safety, interruptions to power and unsafe transport are just some of the things travelers need to consider before going to Gabon. Either drive around the obstacles or turn around, Keep belongings out of plain view at all times, especially when you are parked. Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe. Avoid non-essential travel outside of Canada until further notice. If your travel plans in Gabon include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip. It's mandatory to wear a face mask in public. The 800km- (500-mile-) long sandy coastal strip is a series of palm-fringed bays, lagoons and estuaries. You are responsible for your own safety abroad and for making the decision to travel. The police or military may ask for bribes in the form of 'coca-cola money', and you should not pay these bribes. Gabon has two rainy seasons each year, the first is from March to May and the second from September to November. Be aware police response can be slow, and investigations are rarely opened. Demonstrations occur. Traffic accidents are one of the greatest dangers in Gabon. Most political violence occurs during election campaigns, but issues are usually under control relatively quickly. Other road hazards to be aware of include: poor lighting, disobeying traffic signals, pedestrians walking on roads, cattle and other animals on roadways, large trucks carrying heavy cargo, drunk drivers, poorly maintained roads, and erratic taxis stopping to pick up passengers. Add to that superb white-sand beaches, rushing rivers and ethereal landscapes, and you have an Eden-like travel experience in an unexplored part of Africa. Various governments have changed their travel warnings to restrict travel during this time. To reduce your chance of being attacked or robbed, avoid showing any signs of wealth by not wearing expensive clothing or any jewelry. Just back from Gabon (August 13th, 2010)! Keep your phones, cameras and wallets out of sight at all times, and keep your valuables locked up safely in your accommodation. It enjoys stability and peace. Gabon’s various ecosystems include everything from pristine coastal beaches to lush rain forests, and the country’s biodiversity and low population ensure that the savanna and forests are teeming with a huge variety of wildlife—not tourists. Most organized crime is focused on the drug and ivory trade, as well as human trafficking – which is a major problem for Gabon. Keep your valuables out of sight. Stay away from areas around bars or clubs, and try and go everywhere with at least one more person. STOP YOU NOOB! Contrary to what you might expect, tropical disease, most notably malaria, poses the biggest safety threat at any time of year. You want to stay safe when you travel. Every year, passengers in these minibuses suffer from accidents, and many of these accidents are severe and even fatal. Avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings 3. 30 October 2020. All Gabon diplomatic missions abroad are prohibited from issuing entry visas to Gabon. Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit. Another issue in Gabon is the increasingly bad road conditions. A visa and letter of invitation are required for foreigners working in Gabon. Gabon is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, Equatorial Guinea, Cameroon and the Congo. At police checkpoints you might be asked for money based on whatever excuse they come up with. In most cases, once your travel paperwork is inspected, you will be released. Gabon suspended all visas for European travelers after the central African nation was excluded from a list of countries whose citizens can make non-essential trips to the EU. During summer torrential downpours can cause severe damage to villages and bridges. There are 1 country which refuse visa to Gabon citizens. In January 2019 the internet was blacked out after a coup attempt against President Ali Bongo. Gabon passport holders can visit 27 countries visa free. Transport is highly unsafe in Gabon. Police do not distinguish between innocent bystanders and protesters, and the possibility of becoming collateral is a concern for visitors. Singapore has implemented international Safe Travel Lanes to facilitate travel in and out of Singapore, while safeguarding public health amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Strikes sometimes occur when workers protest for their demands to be met. There have been no natural hazards in recent years. Gabon has lifted daytime stay-at-home orders, but an evening curfew remains in place. Police set up roadblocks and checkpoints throughout Gabon. Because of its generous landscapes, this country invites you to enjoy the splendour of its wild nature. Be aware that once you leave Libreville's main roads, a four-wheel-drive vehicle is required beyond the city limits. Bordering Congo, Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea, Gabon is a prime destination for spending holidays off the beaten path. Commercial air travel has resumed with a limited number of international flights. Petty crime, including pickpocketing, bag snatching and vehicle break-ins, is common in Gabon. Muggings and robberies at gun or knifepoint are no strange occurrences in the streets of Gabon, so be careful when walking alone along the streets of this country. It’s also the most progressive and tourist friendly destination in the area. Gabon is generally not that too safe of a destination, as there are many dangers that may befall an unsuspecting tourist – both in the form of petty and violent crime. There are pickpockets operating and every corner and petty theft such as purse snatching, armed robberies, and carjacking, so tourists should exercise caution. If you’re overseas and wish to return to Australia, be prepared for delays and read our advice on trying to get home.We encourage you to register with DFAT if you’re currently overseas and wish to return home but have not been able to. Yes, it is possible to travel in Gabon independantly without spending a fortune. Gabon Adventure Tours is an adventure travel company that specializes in wildlife and culture, fishing and hunting expeditions with small group sizes range from 2 to 10. There are pickpockets operating and every corner and petty theft such as purse snatching, armed robberies, and carjacking, so tourists should exercise caution. In this episode we meet hiker Tim Voors who spent six months walking America’s Pacific Crest Trail overcoming loneliness and fear while discovering the power of the wilderness to restore the human spirit. Official Global Travel Advisory. Make sure you don't flash your valuable possessions on the street, be careful when withdrawing money from ATMs and of course, keep all your valuables in a safe place in your accommodation or safely by your side. Women are strongly advised against walking alone anywhere in Gabon. Malaria is common, so visitors should take malaria pills and a mosquito net when travelling in Gabon. Expect an increased military presence 2. Gabon Travel Guide In Travel by Continental Staff October 24, 2017 Leave a Comment Gabon doesn’t have the international pedigree of some other African destinations, but this stable and oil flush country is an under the radar getaway for the consummate traveller – with unmatched wildlife that is up there amongst the continents best. Although Gabon is, by and large, a safe country in which few travellers experience any problems, it doesn’t hurt to remain cautious and be prepared for potential dangers. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. Double check your change, never pay anything upfront and negotiate everything in advance. If you plan on using public transport in Gabon, keep in mind that it usually lacks basic equipment like seat belts or even headlights. Gabon is a beautiful Central African destination known for its lush national parks, which together account for around 10% of the country's total land mass. Is Gabon safe for tourists…? We detected travel advisories from 4 sources for this country. There have been reports of scams where thieves cause a distraction to motorists, like stepping in front of cars in tight traffic, this way creating opportunities for their partners to snatch and grab things from unlocked passenger doors. You must always follow instructions from the local police. When it comes to violent crimes, it isn’t commonly directed towards foreigners though it has been on the rise during the last couple of years. Gabon is also relatively safe to visit, as long as you pack plenty of … The safest method of transport in Gabon is to catch taxis. Most importantly, NEVER work with a travel agency. Stay safe. Park only in well-lit areas, ideally in parking lots where there are security guards. Medical facilities are not great. COVID-19 Travel Alert: Which Countries Have Open Borders? Gabon has lifted daytime stay-at-home orders, but an evening curfew remains in place. GABON IS SAFE, NOT VERY SAFE BUT SAFE. Going hiking alone in the wilderness? Gabon Travel Vaccines and Advice. Bordering countries: 3.6 / 5. If you’re a nature or animal lover, you can visit Chez Beti – a small safari camp near the village of Nyonie where you can rent an evening Landcruiser and wait for sunrise to go and experience the world-class safari (as they mostly are in Africa). Libreville has experienced rolling blackouts of electricity and water shortages. While traveling, stay up to date with local news and media to be aware of any political violence or civil unrest that may arise. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC) has issued a Level 4 Travel Health Notice for Gabon due to COVID-19. And though it’s a small population, Gabon has reserves of oil and minerals which has made it one of Africa’s wealthier destinations. Stay healthy . Libreville has several hospitals. Travelers should stay away from protests and demonstrations, especially in Gabon where police have used force and teargas to disrupt events in the past. It is illegal to possess or use drugs, and penalties will result in a lengthy prison sentence. However, there have been incidents of robbery, armed attacks and rape in the past. Gabon is unique among its equatorial African neighbours. 2. avoid displaying valuables like cameras, smart phones or jewellery. For the latest travel warnings and alerts around the world, read about lockdowns and border restrictions. Our best data indicates this area is somewhat safe. Commercial air travel has resumed with a limited number of international flights. The most common crime reported by tourists is theft of unaccompanied items, the second one residential burglary while violent crime wasn’t at the top of this list though it has happened that foreigners were occasionally violently attacked. Contact your airline or travel agent before travelling to check your flight’s … Coronavirus (COVID-19) and travel: The situation around the world is changing dramatically. This video is to inform travellers about the common tourists security issues in Gabon, Africa. These countries include Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Sao Tome and Principe and Cameroon. The Sitata Travel Safe app makes that easy. Armed robberies, petty theft and violent crime do happen on the streets – especially in Libreville and Port Gentil. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Level 4 Travel Health Notice for Gabon due to COVID-19. It is much better to prevent a crime than fight it in Gabon. Is it Safe to Travel to Gabon? There's a ban on overseas travel from Australia.You can’t leave Australia unless you get an exemption from the Department of Home Affairs. 4. be cautious on quiet or isolated beaches in and around Libreville, and avoid them altogether at night. Drugs, especially marijuana, are present in Gabon. Gabon is located on the west coast of Central Africa, bordered by Equatorial Guinea, Cameroon, the Republic of the Congo, and the Gulf of Guinea. Most of its national territories are covered by forest as far as the eye can see. Keep in mind that drivers in Gabon are reckless more often than not, including drivers of minibuses that tend to make frequent unauthorized stops to pick up passengers and are known for speeding from one stop to the next. With 150+ adventure activities covered and 24/7 emergency assistance. United States citizens must have a valid visa to enter Gabon. Gabon is a relatively peaceful democracy. Gabon does not experience earthquakes or have any volcanic activity to cause a threat. Gabon has partially reopened its borders, allowing two international flights per airline per week. Congested urban areas are particularly dangerous at night, but daytime incidents can happen. The Email address or Password is incorrect, World Nomads Contributor - Wed, 16 Oct 2019. read about lockdowns and border restrictions. Public transport includes minibuses that also serve as intercity buses. Pickpockets are very regular on the streets of Gabon and tourists are recommended to remain vigilant at all times when on the street. 1. Visitors are advised to use common sense and not leave valuables in plain sight or in their car. It is advised for tourists to take a taxi in such situations instead of walking. 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