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Gabon, located along the Atlantic coast in Central Africa, is celebrated for its rich biodiversity and vast rainforests. The country is home to numerous national parks and protected areas, making it a sanctuary for wildlife and nature enthusiasts. Gabon’s tourism sector has shown a positive trend, reflecting the broader recovery seen across Africa, where tourist arrivals have reached 92% of pre-pandemic levels. This growth highlights the resilience of the tourism sector and its vital role in supporting local economies and communities. With its easy visa free policy for tourists, Gabon is expanding its sustainable tourism insights to the world. The French visit Gabon the most.
The Gabonese government has prioritized tourism development through strategic initiatives and infrastructure improvements. Investments in roads, airports, and hospitality services have made the country more accessible and tourist-friendly. Additionally, policies promoting sustainable tourism ensure that the growth in visitor numbers benefits local communities and preserves the environment.
Gabon is renowned for its rich biodiversity and vast natural landscapes. Approximately 11% of the country is dedicated to national parks, such as Loango National Park, known for its pristine beaches, diverse wildlife, and unique opportunity to see elephants, hippos, and whales in their natural habitats. This focus on conservation has made Gabon a premier destination for eco-tourists seeking unspoiled natural environments.
GDP Growth of Gabon
Gabon’s GDP was estimated at $48 billion in purchasing power parity.
Citizens of these 10 countries can visit Gabon without a Visa:
Argentina
Australia
Brazil
Cameroon
Canada
Central African Republic
Chad
China
Republic of Congo
Equatorial Guinea
France
Germany
India
Indonesia
Italy
Japan
Republic of Korea
Mexico
Russia
Saudi Arabia
South Africa
Turkey
The United Kingdom
The United States and the European Union.
Other countries with visa-reciprocity are
Benin
Mauritius
Morocco
São Tomé and Príncipe
South Africa
Tunisia
Airports in Gabon
Léon-Mba International Airport (Libreville International Airport), located in Libreville, is the main and busiest airport in Gabon. Handling approximately 1 million passengers annually, it serves as the primary gateway for both international and domestic flights, connecting Gabon to various destinations across Africa, Europe, and other parts of the world.
Port-Gentil International Airport is the second-largest airport in Gabon, serving the city of Port-Gentil. It primarily handles domestic flights and connects to key destinations within the country.
Oyem Airport
Tchibanga Airport
Moabi Airport
Recent development in Gabon Airp The New Libreville International Airport is the proposed new development to replace the existing Libreville Léon Mba International Airport. To be developed at a location approximately 50km north of the current Libreville Airport, the new facility will feature a 19,000sqm terminal capable of handling approximately 3.75 million passengers p/a. ADPi was commissioned to develop the design concept and master plan.
List of Airlines in Gabon
Ethiopian Airlines
Air France
Ethiopian Airlines
Kenya Airways
Royal Air Maroc
Virgin Nigeria
Best hotels to stay at
Radisson Blu Okoume Palace Hotel
Hotel Le Cristal
Hotel Onomo Libreville
Hotel Résidence Nomad
Hotel Leconi Palace
Must visit tourist spots
Ivindo National Park
Loango National Park
Lopé National Park
Libreville
Safety tips for Tourists in Gabon
Avoid Walking Alone or at Night to ensure your safety, refrain from walking alone, especially after dark.
Stay Away from Isolated Areas, this includes avoiding isolated spots such as secluded beaches, which can be risky.
Gabon, a leading oil producer in sub-Saharan Africa, relies on its oil sector for 80% of export earnings and 45% of GDP. The country is rich in manganese, uranium, and iron ore, making it a top global manganese producer. With 85% forest cover, timber is a key export managed through sustainable practices. Political stability and economic diversification efforts attract foreign investments, enhancing infrastructure, agriculture, and tourism. These initiatives reduce over-dependency on oil, fostering a more resilient and diversified economy.
With its unparalleled natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and strategic focus on sustainable tourism, Gabon has successfully positioned itself as a unique and attractive destination for international travelers. The growth in inbound tourism reflects the country’s potential to become a leading eco-tourism hotspot in Africa.
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