Visit, Libreville, the capital of Gabon, which is home to almost half of the country's residents. Experience the feel of Africa in the lovely multicultural environment of Libreville.
You can observe the French influence in the language, culture, and architecture of Africa. You can visit the nature preserves and sanctuaries, and just relax at the beaches.
Whatever you plan to do while visiting Libreville, it pays to be prepared. Discover the importance of travel medical insurance or travel insurance for your trip to Libreville, as well as all of the wonderful things to do, and safety tips to keep in mind.
Libreville Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers - FAQs
Medical insurance from your home country will not provide you with coverage in Libreville. If you require treatment for an illness or injury, you will have to pay out of your own pocket if you do not have insurance.
To secure medical coverage, you should buy travel medical insurance. Travel medical insurance can help cover the financial outlay of medical consultation and treatment. Your expenses can be reimbursed as per your plan.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Libreville?
Travel medical insurance is not mandatory to enter Libreville, or anywhere else in the country. However, a passport with more than six months of validity remaining, a visa, and proof of vaccination against yellow fever are required for entry into Gabon.
Even though it is not required, it is highly recommended to purchase a travel medical insurance plan. After all, you never know when you might get injured, or become sick while traveling abroad.
Why buy travel medical insurance for Libreville?
Medical facilities in Libreville are limited, but they may meet basic needs. In case of a serious condition, you may have to be evacuated to a different location. Medical evacuation is very expensive and can cost your life savings without insurance that can cover it. Therefore, it is a smart idea to purchase insurance that can cover emergency medical evacuation.
Hospitals in Gabon almost always expect payment in cash before rendering medical service. For emergencies, you will have to visit private hospitals. Medical facilities in private hospitals are very expensive. Your medical bills will pile up in no time and make a huge dent in your bank account. Worst-case scenario, you might not be able to afford treatment at all.
To hedge such grave financial risks, purchase travel medical insurance.
Libreville Trip Cancellation Insurance for International Travelers - FAQs
Trip cancellation insurance provides financial coverage for the risks of trip cancellation. It can help you get reimbursed for your prepaid, nonrefundable travel expenses when you have no choice but to forgo taking your trip.
Why buy trip cancellation insurance for Libreville?
A number of personal reasons, such as a death in the family or legal and medical complications, can hinder your trip. Your major travel expenses such as travel fare and accommodation charges have to be prepaid, and are generally nonrefundable.
If you had to cancel your trip and did not have insurance coverage, you would simply be out all the money you’ve spent on things like airfare and hotel accommodations. This could put a major dent in your wallet, and hinder future travel plans.
Trip cancellation insurance can reimburse you for your prepaid, nonrefundable travel expenses if your trip must be cancelled for a covered reason. It can mean the difference between disappointment, and a major financial setback.
What can be covered under trip cancellation insurance for Libreville?
- Trip cancellation
- Travel delay
- Emergency medical treatment
- Loss of baggage
- The option to cancel for any reason, with certain plans.
Remember, not all travel insurance plans are the same. Take the time to compare several policies before deciding which one is the best fit for your situation.
Things to Do for Travelers in Libreville
Have a day out at Pointe-Denis Beach
Have a relaxing day on the long stretch of white sand at Pointe-Denis Beach. Take a stroll, or have a picnic under the palm trees. You can also go swimming and snorkeling, and be sure not to miss out on the whale-spotting boat tour. Several eateries and bungalows in the area provide snacks.
Shop at Marche du Mont-Bouet
Spend time in the market’s vast selection of shops and stalls to discover the life of the locals. You can also shop for local merchandise. Take advantage of the low costs and diverse products made available from the other cities in Gabon. If you cannot speak French, consider hiring a guide.
Explore the Museum of Art and Culture
Explore the customs of Gabon at this seaside monument. View the exhibit of artifacts and works of art, such as native masks and ceremonial costumes. Visit the rustic courtyard, which showcases straw and mud-brick houses. For an extra fee, you can hire a guide. Paying extra is worth it, as the guide can help you with French explanations and you can learn more about what you see.
Gamble at Casino Croisette, Libreville
You will find both locals and tourists at Casino Croisette. Enjoy the relaxed piano-bar ambience and affordable drinks. You can play the standard games like roulette and blackjack. Additionally, you can try the slot machines, video poker, and weekly poker tournaments.
L'Eglise St-Michel Libreville
Discover Libreville's history at The St. Michael Church. Marvel at the intricate interior design, and view the 31 structures of wooden columns. Listen to the story of the visually impaired man who is said to have cut these sections. It is a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Libreville
Petty theft is possible
Tourists are a frequent target for petty theft. People will try to pickpocket, or steal unattended items. Monitor your belongings, and do not carry your valuables into the city; keep them in your hotel safe. Only carry the cash that you need for the day, and be especially careful at night.
Road safety
If you plan on driving in Libreville, use extreme caution. Drivers are known for excessive speeding. Beyond Libreville you must have a four-wheel-drive vehicle. Keep your doors locked, seatbelts fastened, and windows up at all times. If someone approaches your car, do not roll down your window. Keep belongings out of plain view at all times, especially when you are parked. Only park your car in guarded, well-lit areas.
Civil unrest
Civil unrest is not uncommon in Libreville. Stay away from protests and demonstrations, as police have used force and teargas to disrupt events in the past. Innocent bystanders can also get arrested or detained. Political unrest can also disrupt traffic.
Women’s safety
Women should not walk alone anywhere in Libreville, especially at night. Avoid poorly lit streets and unfamiliar areas of the city, as well as beaches after dusk. You should carry your identification at all times to minimize the risk of harassment at police checkpoints. Keep emergency numbers on your speed dial.
Before You Travel to Libreville - Do This
Take our advice to enjoy your vacation to the fullest:
- Get proof of vaccination against yellow fever and coronavirus
- Carry a money belt to prevent pickpockets
- To protect yourself from making a dent in your bank account due to a travel mishap, buy a travel medical insurance or travel insurance plan.