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Some scams

Middle Africa

Tourist scams in Gabon

Pickpocketing and other crimes targeting tourists are common in Gabon, so keep your belongings secure. Libreville and Port-Gentil are generally safer than other areas, but theft is still a concern. There is no detail here on specific organised scams or fraud schemes.
  1. 1 TheftCommonPickpocketingSomeone steals money or valuables from your pockets or bag. No particular distraction trick or theft method is described.Across the country 2Read

Habits that keep you safe

Your belongings

  • Keep your bag closed and within sight.
  • Keep your phone and wallet in secure pockets.
  • Separate everyday cash from spare money and cards.
  • Keep a secure copy of your passport details.

Taxis

  • Agree on the total fare before getting in. Make clear how many people it covers.
  • Use the stated daytime guide of no more than FCFA 5000 for one person as a reference.
  • A 2- or 3-minute ride is listed at FCFA 100. Owendo train station to central Libreville is listed at FCFA 2000.
  • Expect taxi prices to typically double after 21:00. A higher night fare alone does not prove a scam.

Money

  • The local currency is the Central African CFA franc, written FCFA or XAF.
  • Confirm the currency and total price before paying.
  • Count your change before leaving.
  • Avoid displaying large amounts of cash.

Cards and ATMs

  • Ecobank ATMs in Gabon accept Mastercard and Visa for cash withdrawals.
  • Cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
  • Do not let a stranger handle your card or help enter your PIN.
  • Put your cash and card away before walking off.

Police and officials

  • Avoid gatherings, as they may turn violent.
  • Be aware that police may confiscate your passport and question why you came to Gabon.
  • Stay calm during questioning. Ask for the officer's name, the reason for holding your passport and where it will be kept.
  • Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport is held and you need help.

Questions

Are tourist scams common in Gabon?

Pickpocketing and other crimes targeting tourists are common. Specific organised scams, fake officials and fraud schemes are not described.

Are Libreville and Port-Gentil safer?

They are generally safer than other areas of Gabon. You should still secure your phone, money and bags.

How can I reduce the risk of pickpocketing?

Keep valuables out of back pockets. Carry a closed bag where you can see it, and keep spare money and cards separately.

How much should a city taxi cost?

The stated daytime guide is no more than FCFA 5000 for one person. A 2- or 3-minute ride is listed at FCFA 100, and Owendo train station to central Libreville at FCFA 2000. Agree on the total before leaving.

Is a higher taxi fare at night a scam?

Not necessarily. Taxi prices typically double after 21:00. Confirm the fare before getting in.

Can I withdraw cash with Mastercard or Visa?

Ecobank ATMs in Gabon accept both. Cover your PIN and keep your card in your own hands.

What currency should I expect to pay in?

The local currency is the Central African CFA franc, written FCFA or XAF. Confirm the currency and total before paying, then check your change.

What if police take my passport?

Police may confiscate passports and question visitors about their trip. This alone does not establish a scam. Stay calm, ask why it is being held and contact your embassy or consulate if you need help.

Should I avoid public gatherings?

Yes. Gabon has been politically unstable since the coup, and gatherings may turn violent.

What should I do first after a theft?

Get somewhere safe, check what is missing and freeze stolen cards. Report the theft to police and save the details for your insurer. Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport is missing.

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