Holidays in Gabon

Understanding Gabon

History

The earliest inhabitants of the area were Pygmy peoples They were largely replaced and absorbed by Bantu tribes as they migrated

In the 15th century, the first Europeans arrived The nation's present name originates from "Gabão", Portuguese for "cloak", which is roughly the shape of the estuary of the Komo River close to the capital of Libreville French explorer Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza led his first mission to the Gabon-Congo area in 1875 He founded the town of Franceville, and was later colonial governor Several Bantu groups lived in the area that is now Gabon when France officially occupied it in 1885

In 1910, Gabon became one of the four territories of French Equatorial Africa, a federation that survived until 1959 These territories became independent on August 17, 1960

Since independence, Gabon has been one of the more stable African Autocratic President Omar Bongo was in power from 1967 until his death in 2009 Gabon introduced a multiparty system and a new constitution in the early 1990s that allowed for a more transparent electoral process and for reforms of governmental institutions A small population, abundant natural resources, and considerable foreign support have helped make Gabon one of the more prosperous sub-Saharan African countries Despite being made up of more than 40 ethnic groups, Gabon has escaped the strife afflicting other West African states

Climate

Tropical; always hot, humid During the months of June to September, the climate is a little cooler 20-25°C

Terrain

Narrow coastal plain; hilly interior; savanna in east and south Highest point is Mont Iboundji at 1,575 metres

Important holidays

Independence Day: 17 August 1960 from France

National holiday: Founding of the Gabonese Democratic Party PDG, 12 March 1968

Talking in Gabon

Languages 

French official, Fang, Myene, Nzebi, Bapounou/Eschira, Bandjabi

Very few people speak english in Gabon, so some knowledge of French is an asset

Buying stuff in Gabon

Food and eating in Gabon

The Balbool restaurant serves delicious western food with very cheap prices Ask for the big Balbool soup

Drinking in Gabon

The cheapest local beer is Regab, it costs from 350-1000 CFA and comes in a 650ml bottle There are fantastic fruit juices available: "D'jino" Pampelmousse grapefruit, Ananas pineapple, Citron Lemon in 300ml bottles at CFA 400 and in a 1,5l bottle at CFA 900 if bought in a shop

Accommodation in Gabon

There are three international name hotels - Le Meridien, Intercontinental and the Novotel Apart from these, there are several other budget and economy hotels

Long term lease on apartments is also an option

Working in Gabon

A visa and letter of invitation are required for foreigners working in Gabon

Cities in Gabon