Gabon

Tipping

• Tipping is not customary in most places but is appreciated for good service in hotels and some restaurants (5
• 10% is sufficient)
• For tour guides and drivers, a tip is expected and can vary based on the length and quality of the service

Money & Payments

• ATMs are limited, especially outside major cities, so it's advisable to have cash on hand
• Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and some larger businesses in Libreville and Port
• Gentil, but less so elsewhere
• Bringing US Dollars or Euros to exchange is recommended
• There is no official black market for currency, but informal exchanges may occur in some areas

Cultural Norms

• Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas
• It is considered rude to point with one's index finger; use an open hand instead
• When greeting, a handshake is common
• Among close friends and family, kissing on the cheek may occur
• Eating with the left hand is generally considered unclean in some contexts

LGBTQ+ Information

Exercise caution. Gabon's laws criminalize same-sex acts, and there is no legal recognition for LGBTQ+ relationships or protections against discrimination. Societal attitudes are generally conservative.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

• The legal drinking age is 18
• Drug laws are strict, and possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs can lead to severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences and fines

Special Laws

• Photography of government buildings, military installations, or public protests is prohibited
• It is illegal to possess or traffic in protected wildlife products, including ivory and certain animal skins
• Always carry identification documents, as police checks are common