Libreville, Gabon
Libreville, the capital and largest city of Gabon, is situated on the north shore of the Gabon Estuary, where it meets the Gulf of Guinea. Established in the 19th century, the city has evolved from a modest port into the nation’s political, economic, and cultural heart. Since Gabon’s independence in 1960, it has remained the administrative centre, blending colonial-era influences with vibrant African traditions. Libreville is a cosmopolitan city marked by its bustling city centre, diverse communities, and coastal charm. The city serves as a key hub for Gabon’s oil-driven economy, complemented by shipbuilding, timber, and agriculture.
travel information
Léon-Mba International Airport is Gabon’s primary gateway to the world and the busiest airport in the country. Located 15 minutes from downtown Libreville, the airport sits uniquely along the waterfront—where travellers can step out and immediately experience the city’s blend of modernity and natural beauty. The airport manages flights from 13 airlines, connecting Libreville to 22 international destinations, and welcomes nearly 700,000 passengers annually.
For local logistics, Gozem is the available car-hailing service operating in the city.
Visa Requirements
Gabon offers an e-visa system for travellers arriving by air through Léon Mba International Airport in Libreville. Applicants can choose between single or multiple-entry visas, with validity periods ranging from 1 to 6 months.
It is essential not to travel before the approved arrival date specified in the e-visa application and to obtain the official Travel Authorisation Receipt before departure. Visitors who fail to comply risk being denied entry.
The single-entry e-visa, valid for 1 to 3 months, costs EUR 70 or 45,000 XAF, plus a EUR 15 processing fee. The multiple-entry e-visa, valid for 6 months, costs EUR 185 or 120,000 XAF, plus a EUR 15 processing fee. All payments are made on arrival, at the time of e-visa sticker issuance.
Applications are processed within 72 hours after receiving the ETA, and requests cannot be expedited.
Requirements
- International passport, with at least 6 months' validity before the date of arrival in Gabon
- A colour passport photograph taken less than 6 months prior ( size 35 * 45 mm)
- An invitation letter
- Travel Authorisation to Gabon
- Contact in Gabon
To apply, visit here. For more information, visit here.
Important Notice for U.S. Passport Holders
Due to recent changes in Gabon’s visa policy, standard visa issuance for U.S. passport holders is currently restricted. However, U.S. passport holders remain eligible to apply for a Gabon e-Visa, which is the recommended and available route for entry. All applications must be submitted through the official Gabon e-visa platform.
Visa Exemptions
Nationals of some countries are exempt from visas under bilateral agreements with Gabon. Visitors are advised to consult this list of exempt countries before submitting an e-visa request.
Country | Passport type |
Benin | Diplomatic Passport, Service Passport |
Brazil | Diplomatic Passport, Service Passport |
Burkina Faso | Diplomatic Passport, Service Passport |
Cuba | Diplomatic Passport, Service Passport |
Djibouti | Diplomatic Passport, Service Passport |
Egypt | Diplomatic Passport, Service Passport |
France | Diplomatic Passport, Service Passport |
Germany | Diplomatic Passport |
Israel | Diplomatic Passport, Service Passport |
Ivory Coast | Diplomatic Passport, Service Passport |
Mali | Diplomatic Passport, Service Passport |
Mauritius | Ordinary Passport, Diplomatic Passport, Service Passport |
Morocco | Ordinary Passport, Diplomatic Passport, Service Passport |
Russia | Diplomatic Passport, Service Passport |
Senegal | Diplomatic Passport, Service Passport |
South Africa | Ordinary Passport, Diplomatic Passport, Service Passport |
South Korea | Diplomatic Passport, Service Passport |
Tunisia | Diplomatic Passport, Service Passport |
Turkey | Diplomatic Passport |
Visa Extensions
Like other visas issued by the Gabonese Republic, the e-visa may be extended at the Visa Department of the Directorate General of Documentation and Immigration (DGDI) in Libreville, under the following conditions:
- A 1-month visa may be extended by two additional months.
- A 2-month visa may be extended by one additional month.
- A 3-month visa cannot be extended.
- A 6-month visa cannot be extended.
Vaccination
Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required for entry to Gabon. Travellers are advised to receive the vaccine at least 10 days before arrival in the country.
Weather
April in Libreville is hot, humid, and wet; one of the city’s warmest and rainiest months. Average temperatures range from 25°C to 29°C (77°F–84°F), accompanied by frequent showers and high humidity. Sunshine averages about 7 hours a day, so expect a mix of bright skies and sudden tropical downpours.
Pack light, breathable clothing, stay hydrated, and don’t forget an umbrella.
| Name of Hotel | Type of Room | Rates per night (USD) | Website link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Park Inn by Radisson | Standard room | USD 163 | radissonhotels.com |
| Hôtel le Cristal | Standard room | USD 198 | legacyhotels.co.za |
| Radisson Blu Okoume Palace Hotel | Standard room | USD 256 | radissonhotels.com |
| Hotel Hibiscus | Standard room | USD 89 | hotelhibiscusgabon.com |
| Hotel Imperial | Standard Room | USD 70 | booking.com |
| Hotel L'Adagio | Standard double room | USD 134 | booking.com |

Saint-Michel Church
Built in 1967, this iconic downtown church is unlike any other. Its most striking features include carved wooden pillars by artist Zéphyrin Lendogno, a checkerboard-patterned floor, and colourful friezes depicting biblical scenes. Outside, visitors can admire the bell tower topped with a cross and a statue of Archangel Saint Michael by Juan Ndong. A spiritual and architectural landmark not to be missed.
Open: Daily, Mass times vary.
Cost: Free entry.
Notre-Dame de Lourdes
Inaugurated in 2015, this unique church stands out for its Portuguese-inspired blue azulejos façade, reminiscent of Porto’s Capela das Almas. Located near the bus station, its simple yet warm interior, enriched by choir-led Mass, offers a welcoming space for worshippers and visitors alike. The tiled religious scenes on its exterior make it one of Libreville’s most photographed monuments.
Open: Daily, Mass times vary.
Cost: Free entry.
Museum of Arts and Traditions of Gabon
A small but important museum that highlights Gabon’s ethnic and cultural heritage through around 70 artefacts, including masks, statues, and musical instruments. Best explored with a guide who can explain the significance of each item, the museum offers visitors an intimate look at Gabon’s rites and traditions.
Open: Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Cost: Approximately 3,000 XAF for entry and 4,500 XAF for guided tour.
Akanda National Park
Located just north of Libreville, this park protects vital mangroves and coastal ecosystems. It’s a haven for birdwatchers, nature lovers, and eco-tourists, offering opportunities for guided canoe trips, wildlife viewing, and coastal hikes.
Open: Daily, sunrise to sunset.
Cost: Approximately USD 10 for adults, USD 5 for children.
Arboretum de Sibang
A 16-hectare rainforest enclave inside the city, this arboretum preserves around 170 species of trees, including Gabon’s famous Okoumé. It’s an excellent spot for short hikes, environmental education, and experiencing the forest without leaving the capital.
Open: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM.
Presidential Palace (Palais Présidentiel)
An iconic seafront landmark built under President Omar Bongo, the palace is not open to the public, but its striking modernist architecture makes it a must-see for photo stops along Libreville’s coastline.
Open: Exterior view only.
Cost: Free.
Pointe Denis Beach
Accessible by boat across the estuary from Libreville’s harbour, Pointe Denis offers pristine beaches, swimming, and spectacular sunsets. It is also a seasonal nesting ground for sea turtles (November–February).
Open: Daily, daylight hours.
Cost: Free; ferry/boat transport costs apply.
Stade d’Angondjé (Stade de l’Amitié Sino-Gabonaise)
Built in 2011 with a capacity of 40,000, this stadium hosted matches during the Africa Cup of Nations. Today, it remains a premier venue for football matches, concerts, and large-scale events.
Open: Event days only.
Cost: Varies by event.
Palais des Sports de Libreville
Completed in 2018, this modern indoor arena hosts basketball, volleyball, handball, and cultural events. It is a symbol of Gabon’s growing investment in sports and public life.
Open: Event days only.
Cost: Varies by event.

