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Gabon gears up for elections and global visitors

As Gabon heads toward a critical presidential election on April 12, 2025, the country is navigating both political transition and renewed efforts to grow its tourism sector.
The Stèle du Guerrier Wongo is a prominent monument located in the heart of Lastoursville, Gabon. This statue commemorates Wongo, a valiant warrior of the Awandji people who fiercely resisted colonial penetration in the early 20th century. Positioned at a central crossroads, the statue has become a significant landmark and a focal point for both locals and visitors.  Wongo is celebrated for leading a rebellion against colonial forces in the late 1920s. His resistance symbolizes the broader anti-colonial struggles of the Awandji community. After his surrender, Wongo was deported in 1929, marking a poignant chapter in Gabon's history. n recent developments, the statue has garnered renewed attention. General Brice Oligui Nguema, Gabon's transitional president, has emphasized the importance of honoring national heroes like Wongo. Plans for the statue's rehabilitation are underway, aiming to preserve and celebrate this emblem of resistance for future generations. Photo by Ralph Messi on Unsplash
The Stèle du Guerrier Wongo is a prominent monument located in the heart of Lastoursville, Gabon. This statue commemorates Wongo, a valiant warrior of the Awandji people who fiercely resisted colonial penetration in the early 20th century. Positioned at a central crossroads, the statue has become a significant landmark and a focal point for both locals and visitors.  Wongo is celebrated for leading a rebellion against colonial forces in the late 1920s. His resistance symbolizes the broader anti-colonial struggles of the Awandji community. After his surrender, Wongo was deported in 1929, marking a poignant chapter in Gabon's history. n recent developments, the statue has garnered renewed attention. General Brice Oligui Nguema, Gabon's transitional president, has emphasized the importance of honoring national heroes like Wongo. Plans for the statue's rehabilitation are underway, aiming to preserve and celebrate this emblem of resistance for future generations. Photo by Ralph Messi on Unsplash

The election will be the first since the military coup of August 2023, when President Ali Bongo was deposed after years of contested leadership. In preparation, Gabonese authorities have increased security presence, particularly in the capital Libreville, and international travel advisories recommend avoiding demonstrations or politically sensitive areas during the electoral period.

​As of April 3, 2025, Brice Oligui Nguema serves as the transitional President of Gabon. Nguema is a candidate in the upcoming presidential election aiming to transition from interim to democratically elected leader. 


Transitional President Brice Oligui Nguema, who came to power following Gabon’s August 2023 coup, met with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on October 1, 2024, in Washington, D.C. A former head of Gabon’s Republican Guard, Nguema now leads the country through a sensitive period of political transition. The two leaders discussed Gabon’s path toward democratic elections, regional security, and stronger bilateral cooperation. The meeting signaled continued U.S. at that time interest in stability and democratic progress in Central Africa, as Gabon prepares for its next presidential vote. Photo: U.S. Department of State, Flickr US Gov work
Transitional President Brice Oligui Nguema, who came to power following Gabon’s August 2023 coup, met with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on October 1, 2024, in Washington, D.C. A former head of Gabon’s Republican Guard, Nguema now leads the country through a sensitive period of political transition. The two leaders discussed Gabon’s path toward democratic elections, regional security, and stronger bilateral cooperation. The meeting signaled continued U.S. at that time interest in stability and democratic progress in Central Africa, as Gabon prepares for its next presidential vote. Photo: U.S. Department of State, Flickr US Gov work

Candidates

The Constitutional Court has approved eight candidates for the presidency, each bringing distinct backgrounds and platforms to the forefront. Here is an overview of the key contenders:​


1. Brice Oligui Nguema (Independent):

  • Background: Currently serving as the transitional President, Nguema assumed power following a military coup in August 2023 that ousted President Ali Bongo. ​

  • Platform: Nguema has focused on anti-corruption measures and constitutional reforms during his tenure. His candidacy aims to transition from interim to democratically elected leader. ​


2. Alain Claude Bilie By Nze (Ensemble pour le Gabon):

  • Background: Former Prime Minister under Ali Bongo's administration, Bilie By Nze has distanced himself from the previous regime by forming his own political movement, "Ensemble pour le Gabon." ​

  • Platform: He emphasizes economic revitalization through private sector growth, job creation, and improved public services. Bilie By Nze also advocates for revising Gabon's cooperation with France and reducing food import dependence. ​

3. Stéphane Germain Iloko (Large Rassemblement Arc-en-ciel):

  • Background: A former executive of the Gabonese Democratic Party, Iloko now leads the Large Rassemblement Arc-en-ciel party. ​

  • Platform: Specific policy positions are not extensively detailed in the available sources.​

4. Joseph Lapensée Essigone (Independent):

  • Background: A lawyer and tax inspector, Essigone is running as an independent candidate. ​

  • Platform: Detailed policy positions are limited in the current information.​


5. Zenaba Gninga Chaning (Independent):

  • Background: The sole female candidate in the race, Chaning is a businesswoman entering the political arena as an independent. ​

  • Platform: Her campaign details have not been widely publicized.​


The remaining three candidates approved by the Constitutional Court have not been prominently featured in the available sources, and detailed information about their backgrounds and platforms is scarce.


Economic reforms and anti-corruption measures

Regarding tourism, while President Nguema has emphasized economic reforms and anti-corruption measures during his tenure, there is limited publicly available information detailing his specific statements or policies directly addressing the tourism sector. However, the Gabonese government has shown interest in diversifying the economy by developing sectors such as timber, agriculture, fishing, and tourism to increase GDP per capita. 

Cautious optimism amid political transition

Travel advisories from multiple countries, including the United States and Australia, have according to Smarttraveller been updated in recent weeks. The U.S. Department of State currently ranks Gabon at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution, citing risks of petty crime, sporadic unrest, and healthcare limitations.

However, the situation has remained largely calm ahead of the elections, and no widespread violence has been reported. Travelers are advised to stay informed through local media and avoid large gatherings, especially near polling stations.


Libreville, the capital and largest city of Gabon, is a vibrant urban center situated along the country's northwestern coast on the Gabon Estuary, which empties into the Gulf of Guinea. As of 2025, Libreville's population is estimated at approximately 899,225, reflecting steady growth from 703,904 in 2013.  Established in the mid-19th century, Libreville has evolved into Gabon's political, economic, and cultural hub. The cityscape features a blend of modern architecture and traditional African influences, with bustling markets, administrative buildings, and residential areas spread across its hilly terrain. The diverse population comprises various ethnic groups, including the Fang, Myene, and Bapounou, contributing to a rich cultural tapestry. French serves as the official language, reflecting the nation's colonial history, and Christianity is the predominant religion. Credit: Delrick Trevor, Wikimedia, CC BY-SA 3.0
Libreville, the capital and largest city of Gabon, is a vibrant urban center situated along the country's northwestern coast on the Gabon Estuary, which empties into the Gulf of Guinea. As of 2025, Libreville's population is estimated at approximately 899,225, reflecting steady growth from 703,904 in 2013.  Established in the mid-19th century, Libreville has evolved into Gabon's political, economic, and cultural hub. The cityscape features a blend of modern architecture and traditional African influences, with bustling markets, administrative buildings, and residential areas spread across its hilly terrain. The diverse population comprises various ethnic groups, including the Fang, Myene, and Bapounou, contributing to a rich cultural tapestry. French serves as the official language, reflecting the nation's colonial history, and Christianity is the predominant religion. Credit: Delrick Trevor, Wikimedia, CC BY-SA 3.0

Opening doors: Visa-free travel expansion

In a major step to revitalize tourism, Gabon recently introduced visa-free travel for nationals of over 24 countries, including South Africa. The policy is part of a broader strategy to attract more international visitors and business travelers following the country’s post-coup political reset. It simplifies access to Gabon’s natural and cultural attractions, from coastal lagoons to dense equatorial rainforests.

According to the African Travel and Tourism Association, the visa-free initiative reflects Gabon’s growing interest in positioning itself as a more accessible and traveler-friendly destination in Central Africa.

Nature and health: What travelers should know

Gabon is home to some of the most unspoiled natural environments in Africa, including Loango National Park, Ivindo National Park, and the remote beaches where forest elephants and hippos roam freely. With over 80% of the country covered by forest, ecotourism has immense potential—but infrastructure and health services remain limited in rural areas.

Malaria remains a risk throughout Gabon, especially in tropical zones. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that travelers take antimalarial medication, use mosquito repellent, and sleep under treated nets. Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for entry.

Critical balancing act

Gabon’s government faces a critical balancing act: managing a peaceful election while signaling openness to the world. With improved visa access, a wealth of ecological riches, and growing global curiosity, the country is cautiously positioning itself for a new chapter in travel and tourism.

For now, travelers can visit—but with eyes open and plans flexible. As Gabon takes political and economic steps forward, the hope is that its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage can finally shine on the world stage.

Practical travel tips for visiting Gabon 

Loango National Park, located on Gabon's remote Atlantic coast, is one of Africa’s most extraordinary and untouched wildlife havens. Often called “Africa’s Last Eden,” the park is famous for its rare and surreal scenes—like elephants and buffalo strolling across white-sand beaches, and hippos seen swimming in the surf. Covering a diverse landscape of rainforest, savanna, wetlands, lagoons, and coastline, Loango is home to an exceptional variety of wildlife, including lowland gorillas, forest elephants, leopards, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species. For nature lovers and adventurous travelers, it offers a raw, immersive safari experience far from the crowds—where the wild still rules and every encounter feels like a secret discovery. Photo: Kurt Dundy, Wikipedia, CC BY 3.0
Loango National Park, located on Gabon's remote Atlantic coast, is one of Africa’s most extraordinary and untouched wildlife havens. Often called “Africa’s Last Eden,” the park is famous for its rare and surreal scenes—like elephants and buffalo strolling across white-sand beaches, and hippos seen swimming in the surf. Covering a diverse landscape of rainforest, savanna, wetlands, lagoons, and coastline, Loango is home to an exceptional variety of wildlife, including lowland gorillas, forest elephants, leopards, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species. For nature lovers and adventurous travelers, it offers a raw, immersive safari experience far from the crowds—where the wild still rules and every encounter feels like a secret discovery. Photo: Kurt Dundy, Wikipedia, CC BY 3.0

Before you go

  • Visa: Citizens from over 24 countries (including South Africa and several regional states) can now enter visa-free. Others may require a visa, which can often be obtained online or at an embassy.

  • Vaccinations: Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory. You should also be up-to-date on typhoid, hepatitis A/B, and consider malaria prophylaxis.

  • Travel insurance: Strongly recommended, including medical evacuation, as healthcare outside Libreville is limited.

  • Register your trip: If you're traveling during the election season (April 2025), register with your embassy if your country offers such services.


What to pack

  • Light, breathable clothing – Gabon is hot and humid year-round.

  • Rain protection – If visiting between October and May, be ready for tropical downpours.

  • Mosquito repellent & netting – Malaria is a real risk.

  • Plug adapters – Gabon uses type C and E plugs, 220V.

  • Cash – Credit cards are not widely accepted outside of Libreville. Bring Central African CFA francs (XAF) or be prepared to exchange.


On arrival

  • Main entry point: Libreville International Airport (LBV). From there, local flights and 4x4s are needed to reach national parks or remote areas.

  • Transport: Domestic travel can be slow. Roads vary from paved highways to rough tracks. Domestic flights, trains, and riverboats are alternatives.


Ivindo National Park is renowned for its stunning waterfalls—Kongou and Mingouli—set amidst dense rainforests. This UNESCO World Heritage Site encompasses diverse ecosystems, including rivers, rapids, and marshes, providing habitat for numerous endemic species. Lopé National Park presents a unique blend of ancient savannas and tropical rainforests. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers insights into ecological evolution and human history spanning 400,000 years. The park supports a rich array of wildlife, including western lowland gorillas, mandrills, and forest elephants. ​Photo: Vincent.vaquin, Wikimedia, CC BY-SA 3.0
Ivindo National Park is renowned for its stunning waterfalls—Kongou and Mingouli—set amidst dense rainforests. This UNESCO World Heritage Site encompasses diverse ecosystems, including rivers, rapids, and marshes, providing habitat for numerous endemic species. Lopé National Park presents a unique blend of ancient savannas and tropical rainforests. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers insights into ecological evolution and human history spanning 400,000 years. The park supports a rich array of wildlife, including western lowland gorillas, mandrills, and forest elephants. ​Photo: Vincent.vaquin, Wikimedia, CC BY-SA 3.0

Where to go

  • Libreville: Modern capital with markets, restaurants, and seaside promenades.

  • Loango National Park: Famous for «surfing hippos» and elephants on the beach.

  • Ivindo & Lopé Parks: Pristine rainforest, gorillas, waterfalls, and rare birds.

  • Port-Gentil: Coastal city known for its nightlife and oil history.


Safety tips

  • Election period (April 2025): Avoid protests, rallies, and political gatherings. Monitor local news.

  • Crime: Petty theft and scams can occur. Be cautious at night and avoid isolated areas.

  • Local laws: Dress modestly in rural areas, and ask before taking photos of people or government buildings.


Connectivity

  • Internet: Generally reliable in cities but limited in rural areas.

  • SIM cards: Easily available with ID; Airtel and Moov are main providers.



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