Travel to Gabon to backpack, study, intern, volunteer, work, or live as a digital nomad, expat or emigrant?

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Intro
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Backpacking or travelling in Gabon?

  • Gabon, the green lung of Central Africa with 88% rainforest, offers a unique mix of rainforests, savannahs and beautiful coastlines. As one of the less visited African countries, it is a paradise for adventurous travellers who want to avoid the crowds of tourist hotspots. The country is home to some of the most beautiful and unspoilt national parks in Africa, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers and adventurers.
  • Activities to spot: safari through the beautiful Loango National Park; take a boat trip through Ivindo National Park; spot elephants on the beaches of Pointe Denis; hike through Monts de Cristal; explore the capital Libreville; snorkel or dive on the Gabonese coast; explore the caves of Lastoursville; spot birds in Moukalaba-Doudou National Park; take a road trip along the Route Nationale 1; visit the small fishing villages. Animal spotting: forest elephants, gorillas, mandrills, chimpanzees, whales, leatherback turtles, leopards, buffalos, manatees etc.
  • Food spotting: poulet nyembwe (chicken in palm nut sauce), benga (black bean dish, often with meat or fish), brochette (grilled meat on skewers), foufou (dough dish made of manioc or corn), makongo (fried termites, a local delicacy!), saka-saka (stew with cassava leaves), banana puree, palm wine.
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Studying in Gabon?

  • Gabon offers an interesting academic environment for students who want to delve into subjects such as forest management, biology, and the oil industry, given the country's rich natural resources. There are several universities and a relatively wide range of study programs.
  • Study city: Libreville.
  • Language: French, with possibly some English-language programs.
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Internship in Gabon?

  • You won't find an internship in Gabon in 1,2,3. Speaking French will help a lot, but even then it's still a challenge. You could look in environmental protection, oil and gas industry and sustainable tourism.
  • Competencies: intercultural communication, French language skills, experience in challenging circumstances, flexibility and carrying a lot of responsibility.
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Volunteering in Gabon?

  • Volunteering in Gabon brings you close to nature and local communities. Whether you work on nature conservation, such as protecting sea turtles and gorillas, or contribute to educational projects in villages, your efforts will certainly be appreciated.
  • Volunteer organizations often focus on environmental conservation, healthcare and education.
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Working in Gabon?

  • The oil industry is the largest employer of foreign professionals in Gabon. In addition, there are opportunities in mining, forestry, international trade and NGOs. Expertise in environmental conservation and sustainable energy is particularly sought after, as Gabon strives for a green economy.
  • Work culture: Gabon’s work culture is formal and hierarchical, but also personal. Building relationships is important, and it’s common to start meetings with informal chats before getting down to business.
  • French is the lingua franca of the workplace, so knowledge of the language is essential.
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Working as a digital nomad in Gabon?

  • Although Gabon has beautiful natural locations, it’s not a typical digital nomad destination. Internet connectivity can be decent in larger cities like Libreville, but in more remote areas it can be slow or unreliable. Coworking cafes are rare, but you can work from hotels and restaurants with Wi-Fi in the capital.
  • For nomads looking for adventure and nature, however, Gabon can be a super beautiful, off-the-beaten-path destination.
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Living in Gabon?

  • Living in Gabon, especially in the capital Libreville, offers a mix of modern comfort and African adventure. City life is relatively comfortable, with good schools, restaurants, and an expat community. However, it often comes with a higher price tag than other countries in Africa. Outside the city, you may be faced with limited infrastructure, but this also offers the opportunity to live close to nature.
  • Education: Libreville has a few international schools that teach in French and English, among other languages. Outside of Libreville, there are few options.
  • Expat community: Small but growing, thanks in large part to the oil and mining industries.
  • Safety: Gabon is generally a safe country, especially compared to other countries in the region. In cities like Libreville, it is safe to walk around, although you should be aware of petty crime such as pickpocketing. In remote areas, it is important to be prepared for natural conditions and to respect local customs.
  • Culture: Gabon’s culture is rich and diverse, with influences from various Bantu peoples and French colonial history. Art, music and dance play an important role in daily life. The traditional Bwiti religion, known for its rituals and ceremonies, is deeply rooted in the society.
  • Climate: Equatorial, short dry season with occasional rain, long wet season, long total dry season and short wet season.
  • Be aware of the rainy seasons, as remote areas can be difficult to reach during certain periods. Also, some areas are prone to malaria, so take precautions when travelling outside the cities. And it certainly helps to know a little French.
  • Health insurance: Gabon’s healthcare is reasonable in Libreville, but facilities are limited in remote areas. For extensive care, you may have to travel elsewhere, so make sure you have your own comprehensive health insurance.
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CHECK COUNTRY INFORMATION  CHECK PREPARING AND INSURANCE  CHECK ACTIVITIES AND STORIES 

 

Gabon Country Bundle: suggestions, stories and tips

Gabon Country Bundle: suggestions, stories and tips

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Content about Gabon on WorldSupporter

Gabon: Updates & Travel

Gabon: Updates & Travel

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Travel in Gabon

  • Gabon is one of the most progressive and stable countries in central Africa. Libreville is a cosmopolitan city, and beyond that, Gabon is an undiscovered paradise. The country is becoming increasingly popular among tourists because of its endless jungle, wildlife and white beaches. Much of that nature is protected in game parks, and so going on safari is quite possible.
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Updates Gabon

  • More about Gabon, updates and contributions, see the link below.
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How does healthcare work in Gabon, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does healthcare work in Gabon, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

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How does the healthcare system work in Gabon?

  • In Gabon, medical facilities for basic care are reasonably good in the cities. However, care generally does not meet Western standards and for complex illnesses one often has to go abroad.
  • Care is divided into the public sector, the semi-public sector and the private sector and into three levels: primary, secondary and tertiary care.
  • Traditional health care still plays a major role, especially in the countryside. If you are there, it can be an interesting experience!
  • Outside the cities, much less English is spoken (French is the main language). So it is useful to know a few words of French.
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How does the public healthcare system work in Gabon?

  • Public care consists of central, specialised hospitals in the cities, regional hospitals that provide basic care, maternity care and emergency care and local clinics and health centres that provide basic care and preventive care.
  • The quality of care is reasonable in the cities, but much less in the countryside. However, even in the cities, healthcare suffers from insufficient funding, long waiting times and shortages of staff (particularly specialists) and materials.
  • There is a public health insurance system, the Caisse Nationale d’Assurance Maladie et de Garantie Sociale (CNAMGS). This health insurance is available to employees (even mandatory), students, poor people and the elderly and is divided into three funds: the public sector, the private sector and vulnerable residents.
  • The health insurance provides coverage for approximately 80-90% of healthcare costs. In the event of pregnancy, 100% of the costs are covered.
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How does the private healthcare system work in Gabon?

  • There is good private healthcare available in Gabon, but it is expensive (think of 50-100 euros for a visit to the doctor).
  • The quality is better, the waiting times are shorter and more is possible.
  • Almost all private healthcare can be found in Libreville and Port-Gentil.
  • You often have to pay in cash and in advance. Private healthcare consists of both profit-making and non-profit-making companies/organizations.
  • People who can afford it, including foreigners living in Gabon, generally choose private healthcare because of the better quality.
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How is the general practitioner arranged in Gabon?

  • In Libreville and Port-Gentil, general practitioners can be found mainly in private clinics. There is no real general practitioner system in Gabon.
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How is the dentist arranged in Gabon?

  • The majority of dental practices can be found in Libreville.
  • Private healthcare is usually still fairly basic, but a lot better than public healthcare.
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How is pregnancy care arranged in Gabon?

  • The maternal and infant mortality rates are fairly high in Gabon compared to Western countries.
  • Healthcare in general, and therefore also maternity care, is quite limited in Gabon.
  • Maternity and postpartum care can only be found in the cities. Although national insurance offers 100% coverage, there are many disadvantages to public healthcare.
  • Private healthcare is of better quality, but even there the options are limited.
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How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in Gabon?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Gabon?

  • In Gabon, you are somewhere in between in terms of safety in Africa. Although it is not very common, there is violent crime, especially in Libreville and Port Gentil.
  • Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and scooter riders who pull your bag out of your arms, is more common.
  • There may be protests, especially around elections, which can get out of hand.
  • There is a risk of flooding during the rainy season. In some places, a four-wheel drive car is required.

What should you look out for in terms of diseases in Gabon?

  • There are various health risks in Gabon, including mosquito-borne diseases such as zika, malaria and yellow fever.
  • There are also many infectious diseases that are transmitted through water and food, such as cholera and hepatitis.
  • HIV/AIDS is common.

What should you pay attention to when it comes to traffic in Gabon?

  • Driving is possible in Libreville, but outside the city it is a lot more challenging. The roads are often in poor condition and it takes a long time to get help if something happens.
  • Especially during the rainy season it is wise to have a car with four-wheel drive.
  • There is little road lighting. Driving at night is therefore not recommended.
  • It is not unusual to come across a police checkpoint. You must show all your papers here.
  • In Libreville you can use buses and taxis. Most people choose taxis because the bus system is not very reliable.
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What work and travel insurance policies are suitable for short and long stays in Gabon?

  • Is the trip to Gabon and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? Read more about insurances for abroad on JoHoinsurances.org.

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What emigration and expat insurance can you take out for Gabon if you are going to live there for a while?

  • Due to the limitations of healthcare in Gabon, good international health insurance is recommended to avoid high costs of private care and medical evacuations.
  • Make sure your insurance covers medical evacuation as well as coverage in neighboring countries. Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.
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Gabon: selection of contributions by WorldSupporters - Bundle

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Why get specific insurance when going abroad: per activity abroad
What is travel insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go on a trip or vacation?

What is travel insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go on a trip or vacation?

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What is travel insurance to insure your trip or vacation?

  • Travel insurance is insurance that provides coverage for risks during a trip or vacation abroad. This mainly concerns loss of or damage to your luggage, medical assistance in the event of accidents, for example, or repatriation costs if you need to be transported back to your home country urgently. In some cases, travel insurance coverage also applies in your home country.
  • With continuous travel insurance, you are insured for all your trips throughout the year.
  • With temporary travel insurance, you take out insurance for each trip for the duration of the trip.
  • Cancellation insurance reimburses (all or part of) the travel sum, cancellation or accommodation costs if you have to cancel or interrupt your vacation.
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Why should you take out travel insurance for a short trip, vacation, or long-distance trip?

  • Travel insurance can provide coverage in the event of an accident or emergency while you are away.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage for damage and accidents during the adventurous or sporting activities you are going to do.
  • Travel insurance can continue to provide coverage if your Dutch basic health insurance no longer provides coverage, or if the damage is only reimbursed at Dutch cost price.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage in the event of damage, loss, or theft of your luggage.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage if you are held liable for damage you cause to other people or their property.
  • Travel insurance can provide coverage if you have to return home early because something has happened to you or your immediate family.
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What is important to insure when you are going to travel?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the countries where you are going to travel and possible work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your full period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work or voluntary work during your world trip.
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What insurance do you need for a trip or vacation?

 

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Travel insurances and insurances for long term abroad - Theme
What is round the world travel insurance or long-term travel insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go abroad?

What is round the world travel insurance or long-term travel insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go abroad?

Round the world travel insurance or long-term travel insurance

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What is round the world travel insurance or long-term travel insurance?

  • Round the world travel insurance means that you take out insurance that continues to provide coverage during all your activities abroad, and which is specifically intended for those who travel for long periods of time, such as world travelers, globetrotters, and nomads.
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Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a long trip abroad?

  • Round the world travel insurance provides coverage for a much longer trip than regular travel insurance.
  • World travel insurance is specifically intended for longer trips, whereas regular travel insurance may offer coverage on paper, but in practice handles it differently.
  • World travel insurance is suitable for many types of activities, ranging from high-altitude trekking to more risky sports.
  • World travel insurance continues to provide coverage if you start working during your trip, whether planned or unplanned. If you did not take out insurance before departure that allows you to work, there is no guarantee that you will be able to take out insurance that provides coverage while abroad.
  • Long-term travel insurance continues to provide coverage when your home country's health insurance no longer does.
  • Worldwide travel insurance also covers your medical expenses up to the actual cost, and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • Worldwide travel insurance can also continue to provide coverage if negative travel advice is issued.
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What is important to insure when you are going to travel around the world?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the countries where you are going to travel and possibly work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your full period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work or voluntary work during your world trip.
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What insurance do you need when backpacking abroad?

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Travel insurances and insurances for long term abroad - Theme
What is backpack insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go backpacking abroad?

What is backpack insurance, and why take out specific insurance when you go backpacking abroad?

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What is backpacking insurance and travel insurance for backpackers?

  • Backpacking insurance for backpackers means that you take out insurance that continues to provide coverage during all your activities abroad and is specifically intended for those who are traveling for a long time, traveling independently, or making frequent use of local transportation.
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Why should you take out travel insurance specifically for backpacking?

  • Travel insurance for backpacking can provide coverage in the event of an accident or emergency while backpacking.
  • Travel insurance for backpacking can provide coverage for damage and accidents during your adventurous or sporting activities.
  • Travel insurance for backpacking can continue to provide coverage if your Dutch basic health insurance no longer provides coverage, or if the damage is only reimbursed at Dutch cost price.
  • Travel insurance for backpacking can provide coverage in the event of damage, loss, or theft of your luggage while backpacking.
  • Travel insurance for backpacking can provide coverage if you are held liable for damage you cause to other people or their property.
  • Travel insurance for backpacking can provide coverage if you have to return home early because something has happened to you or your immediate family while backpacking.
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What aspects are important to insure when backpacking abroad?

  • The duration of your trip: so that you are also covered during a very long backpacking trip, or can extend your coverage if you want to stay longer
  • The activities during your trip: so that you can also participate in all kinds of sports and adventure activities that are excluded from travel insurance
  • Coverage of your medical expenses during your trip: so that you are always covered, even if you go to work or if the costs in the event of an accident are higher than the Dutch rate
  • Coverage for natural disasters and war during your trip: so that you don't have to return home immediately with your tail between your legs every time the Dutch government issues negative travel advice
  • Your insurer's specialization: so that your insurer specializes in backpacking trips or long stays abroad, and doesn't treat you like an “all-inclusive sunglasses claimant.”
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What insurance do you need when backpacking abroad?

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Travel insurances and insurances for long term abroad - Theme
Staying healthy abroad and health insurances abroad - Theme
What is insurance for working abroad, and why do you need specific insurance if you are going to do paid work?

What is insurance for working abroad, and why do you need specific insurance if you are going to do paid work?

Insurance for working abroad

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What is insurance for working abroad?

  • Insuring yourself for working abroad means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your paid work abroad.
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Why take out insurance, and when is normal travel insurance no longer sufficient?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance for paid work abroad.
  • During your work, local employers generally offer no or limited insurance that does not provide sufficient coverage.
  • The risk of accidents is sometimes greater during your work, for example because you are doing work with which you have little experience or because of the nature of the work.
  • During specific work abroad, additional requirements may apply as soon as you start performing work that involves additional risks. Only special insurance policies offer coverage during this type of work.
  • During work, internships, or volunteer work abroad where you receive a salary or compensation (for example, food or housing), your local health insurance coverage will normally lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • Standard travel insurance policies generally do not provide sufficient coverage to apply for a work visa or working holiday visa.
  • Standard travel insurance policies generally only cover stays abroad for a limited number of days. If your trip or stay abroad exceeds the maximum number of days, this generally means that there will be no coverage for the entire travel period.
  • Standard travel insurance policies generally only provide coverage for recreational travel without study, internship, or work. If you engage in activities other than recreational activities, this generally means that you will no longer be covered for the entire travel period.
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What should you pay attention to in your insurance policy if you are going to work abroad?

  • Make sure you have insurance that is valid in the area where you will be traveling and working.
  • Make sure you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you will be participating in.
  • that you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • that your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost (what it actually costs), and not just for the standard costs. In most countries, healthcare costs are higher than in the Netherlands.
  • that you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • that you are well insured against personal liability.
  • that you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • that you insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless the coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  •  that you take care to choose the right coverage when working in healthcare, with wild animals, and with dangerous machinery.
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What insurance do you need to work abroad?

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International Insurances for working abroad
What is volunteer insurance, and why should you take out specific insurance if you are going to do volunteer work

What is volunteer insurance, and why should you take out specific insurance if you are going to do volunteer work

Volunteering abroad with the right insurance

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What is insurance for volunteering abroad?

  • Insuring volunteer work abroad means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage while you are working as a volunteer abroad
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Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for voluntary work abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance when volunteering abroad.
  • During specific activities abroad, additional requirements may apply if your work involves extra risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during these activities.
  • The risk of accidents is sometimes higher during your work, for example because you are doing work you have little experience with or because of the nature of the work.
  • Local projects or employers generally offer no or limited insurance that provides insufficient coverage during your work.
  • When volunteering abroad and receiving minor financial compensation (or, for example, food or housing), your home country's health insurance coverage will potentially lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally provide coverage for trips of a limited number of days. If your trip or stay abroad exceeds the maximum number of days, this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally only provide coverage for recreational travel without voluntary work activities. If you engage in activities other than recreational activities (such as volunteer work), this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.
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What is important to insure when you are going to work as a volunteer abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and volunteer.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That when performing work in healthcare, with wild animals, and with dangerous (agricultural) machinery, you take care to choose the right coverage.
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What insurance do you need when volunteering abroad?

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Travel insurances and insurances for long term abroad - Theme
Staying healthy abroad and health insurances abroad - Theme
Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

Internship abroad with the right insurance

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What is insurance for an internship abroad?

  • Insuring an internship abroad means taking out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your internship abroad
  • Insurance for internships abroad are also referred to as internship insurance. This internship insurance is specifically for when you go abroad for a long period of time to work as an intern, take courses, or conduct research abroad.
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Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for an internship abroad?

  • There may be several reasons why you need separate insurance for an internship abroad.
  • During internship activities abroad, additional requirements may apply as soon as you start performing work that involves additional risks. Only specific insurance policies offer coverage during these activities.
  • During your internship, the risk of accidents is sometimes greater, for example because you are doing work with which you have little experience or because of the nature of the work.
  • During your internship, local employers generally do not offer insurance, or offer limited insurance that does not provide sufficient coverage.
  • During an internship abroad where you receive financial compensation (or, for example, food or accommodation), your home country's health insurance coverage will potentially lapse. You will then need special insurance to remain insured for illness and accidents.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally provide coverage for trips of a limited number of days. If your trip or stay abroad exceeds the maximum number of days, this generally means that for the entire travel period, you will not be covered.
  • Regular travel insurance policies generally only provide coverage for recreational trips without work activities.
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What is important to insure when you are going to be an intern abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the area where you will be traveling and doing your internship.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you will be participating in.
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return in case something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost (what it actually costs), and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability and, preferably, also for liability during your internship.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless the coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • Make sure you choose the right coverage for internship work in healthcare, with wild animals, or with dangerous machinery!

Check out more about international insurances

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Travel insurances and insurances for long term abroad - Theme
Staying healthy abroad and health insurances abroad - Theme
What is insurance for studying abroad, and why should you take out specialized travel insurance for your education abroad?

What is insurance for studying abroad, and why should you take out specialized travel insurance for your education abroad?

Studying abroad with the right insurance

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What is insurance for studying abroad?

  • Insurance for studying abroad means that you take out insurance that continues to provide coverage during your studies, your education, and your related activities abroad.
  • Insurance for studying abroad is also referred to as study insurance. This study insurance is specifically for when you go abroad for a long period of time to take courses, study, or conduct research abroad.
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Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a study abroad?

  • Study insurance is specifically designed for studying abroad, whereas regular travel insurance policies may offer coverage on paper but handle this situation differently in practice.
  • Study insurance offers coverage for longer stays than regular (vacation) travel insurance.
  • Study insurance is also suitable for many types of activities, ranging from various sports to hiking at high altitudes.
  • Study insurance continues to provide coverage if you start working during your trip, whether planned or unplanned. If you have not taken out insurance before departure that allows you to work, there is no guarantee that you will be able to take out insurance abroad that provides coverage.
  • Study insurance continues to provide coverage if your own country's health insurance no longer provides coverage.
  • Student insurance also covers your healthcare costs above the rates in your own country; with regular insurance, you have to pay the extra costs yourself.
  • Student insurance can also continue to provide coverage if (study) visa issuers impose additional requirements on how you insure yourself, for example if you are going to the US and applying for a J-1 visa.
  • Student insurance continues to provide coverage if you are staying abroad for a longer period of time and want to visit your own country in between.
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What is important to insure when you are going to study abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to travel and work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you insure your luggage and take sufficient precautions against theft or damage.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you only insure yourself for legal assistance if there is an immediate reason to do so, unless coverage is already automatically included in the insurance.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work alongside your studies.

Check out more about international insurances

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Travel insurances and insurances for long term abroad - Theme
Staying healthy abroad and health insurances abroad - Theme
Why should you take out specialized insurance for moving abroad as an emigrant or an expat?

Why should you take out specialized insurance for moving abroad as an emigrant or an expat?

Moving abroad with the right insurance

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What is an emigration insurance and what is an expat insurance?

  • Emigration insurance is an insurance that continues to provide coverage if you move abroad permanently or for an indefinite period of time.
  • Emigration insurance is not only intended for emigrants, but for anyone who leaves their home country for an extended period of time and does not intend to return in the foreseeable future.
  • Expat insurance is insurance that continues to provide coverage if you go to work abroad for a local or international employer for an extended period of time.
  • Expat insurance is not only intended for expats, but for anyone who has a more permanent job abroad.
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Why should you take out specialized insurance for emigration or working as an expat abroad?

  • Emigration or expat insurance not only provides coverage for acute assistance in the event of illness or accident abroad, such as travel insurance, but can also provide coverage for existing conditions and ailments or non-urgent care.
  • Emigration or expat insurance does not require you to maintain valid health insurance in your home country.
  • Emigration or expat insurance provides coverage for preventive care or costs related to pregnancy and childbirth.
  • Emigration or expat insurance also provides coverage for long-term treatments and chronic conditions without you having to return to your home country.
  • Emigration or expat insurance often has no restrictions on the duration of the insurance, unlike travel insurance.
  • Emigration or expat insurance usually maintains coverage in cases such as negative travel advice or acts of war.
  • Emigration or expat insurance offers various solutions in the areas of disability, home and household insurance, goods transport, and liability.
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What is important to insure when you are going to move abroad?

  • That you have insurance that is valid in the country or countries where you are going to live and/or work.
  • That you are adequately insured for the sports and activities you are going to participate in during your period abroad
  • That you are insured for emergency assistance and early return if something happens to you or your immediate family.
  • That your medical expenses are insured up to the actual cost and not just for the standard costs. The costs per medical treatment vary greatly between countries.
  • That you are well insured against personal liability.
  • That you are well insured in case of accidents.
  • That you pay close attention to choosing the right coverage when performing work with additional health risks

Check out more about international insurances

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Travel insurances and insurances for long term abroad - Theme
Staying healthy abroad and health insurances abroad - Theme
International insurances through JoHo Insurances and JoHo WorldSupporter

International insurances through JoHo Insurances and JoHo WorldSupporter

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Table of content

  • Why should you take out insurance through the JoHo Foundation when you go abroad?
  • Insuring activities abroad:
    • internships, studying, volunteer work or paid work
    • backpacking, holiday, travel or round the world
    • emigration, living abroad, working as expat
  • Insurances for abroad: per insurance 
  • Insurances for abroad: per organization
  • How healthcare works
......Read more on this page

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Safety and insurances for Gabon

How does healthcare work in Gabon, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

How does healthcare work in Gabon, and what travel insurance, health insurance or expat insurance do you need?

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How does the healthcare system work in Gabon?

  • In Gabon, medical facilities for basic care are reasonably good in the cities. However, care generally does not meet Western standards and for complex illnesses one often has to go abroad.
  • Care is divided into the public sector, the semi-public sector and the private sector and into three levels: primary, secondary and tertiary care.
  • Traditional health care still plays a major role, especially in the countryside. If you are there, it can be an interesting experience!
  • Outside the cities, much less English is spoken (French is the main language). So it is useful to know a few words of French.
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How does the public healthcare system work in Gabon?

  • Public care consists of central, specialised hospitals in the cities, regional hospitals that provide basic care, maternity care and emergency care and local clinics and health centres that provide basic care and preventive care.
  • The quality of care is reasonable in the cities, but much less in the countryside. However, even in the cities, healthcare suffers from insufficient funding, long waiting times and shortages of staff (particularly specialists) and materials.
  • There is a public health insurance system, the Caisse Nationale d’Assurance Maladie et de Garantie Sociale (CNAMGS). This health insurance is available to employees (even mandatory), students, poor people and the elderly and is divided into three funds: the public sector, the private sector and vulnerable residents.
  • The health insurance provides coverage for approximately 80-90% of healthcare costs. In the event of pregnancy, 100% of the costs are covered.
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How does the private healthcare system work in Gabon?

  • There is good private healthcare available in Gabon, but it is expensive (think of 50-100 euros for a visit to the doctor).
  • The quality is better, the waiting times are shorter and more is possible.
  • Almost all private healthcare can be found in Libreville and Port-Gentil.
  • You often have to pay in cash and in advance. Private healthcare consists of both profit-making and non-profit-making companies/organizations.
  • People who can afford it, including foreigners living in Gabon, generally choose private healthcare because of the better quality.
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How is the general practitioner arranged in Gabon?

  • In Libreville and Port-Gentil, general practitioners can be found mainly in private clinics. There is no real general practitioner system in Gabon.
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How is the dentist arranged in Gabon?

  • The majority of dental practices can be found in Libreville.
  • Private healthcare is usually still fairly basic, but a lot better than public healthcare.
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How is pregnancy care arranged in Gabon?

  • The maternal and infant mortality rates are fairly high in Gabon compared to Western countries.
  • Healthcare in general, and therefore also maternity care, is quite limited in Gabon.
  • Maternity and postpartum care can only be found in the cities. Although national insurance offers 100% coverage, there are many disadvantages to public healthcare.
  • Private healthcare is of better quality, but even there the options are limited.
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How safe or unsafe is a trip or stay in Gabon?

What should you pay attention to in terms of safety in Gabon?

  • In Gabon, you are somewhere in between in terms of safety in Africa. Although it is not very common, there is violent crime, especially in Libreville and Port Gentil.
  • Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and scooter riders who pull your bag out of your arms, is more common.
  • There may be protests, especially around elections, which can get out of hand.
  • There is a risk of flooding during the rainy season. In some places, a four-wheel drive car is required.

What should you look out for in terms of diseases in Gabon?

  • There are various health risks in Gabon, including mosquito-borne diseases such as zika, malaria and yellow fever.
  • There are also many infectious diseases that are transmitted through water and food, such as cholera and hepatitis.
  • HIV/AIDS is common.

What should you pay attention to when it comes to traffic in Gabon?

  • Driving is possible in Libreville, but outside the city it is a lot more challenging. The roads are often in poor condition and it takes a long time to get help if something happens.
  • Especially during the rainy season it is wise to have a car with four-wheel drive.
  • There is little road lighting. Driving at night is therefore not recommended.
  • It is not unusual to come across a police checkpoint. You must show all your papers here.
  • In Libreville you can use buses and taxis. Most people choose taxis because the bus system is not very reliable.
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What work and travel insurance policies are suitable for short and long stays in Gabon?

  • Is the trip to Gabon and your return sufficiently covered? Are you sufficiently covered before, during and after your activities? Which insurance best suits your trip and your activity? Read more about insurances for abroad on JoHoinsurances.org.

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What emigration and expat insurance can you take out for Gabon if you are going to live there for a while?

  • Due to the limitations of healthcare in Gabon, good international health insurance is recommended to avoid high costs of private care and medical evacuations.
  • Make sure your insurance covers medical evacuation as well as coverage in neighboring countries. Read more about insurances for abroad on Expatinsurances.org.
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Naar Gabon reizen om te backpacken, te studeren, stage te lopen, vrijwilligerswerk te doen, te werken, te leven als digital nomad of emigrant
Reizen door, wonen in of emigreren naar Gabon

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Activities abroad: home bundle

Main content and contributions for activities abroad

,,,accommodations, adventure activities, courses, internships, jobs and volunteer projects

...to help another, travel with care, work together , learn to share and inspire with your experience

 

Activities abroad: home page

Activities abroad: home page

From language courses to gap year abroad, from work experience to volunteering abroad, from paid work to internship abroad, from mountaineering to diving and from backpacking to travel around the world

Activities abroad

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    What social activities can you do abroad?

    • Opportunities are found in the areas of helping, learning or studying. You can get involved to volunteer in a social project at a school in Africa, Asia or Latin America. You can get involved in nature, in a project with animals or cleaning the sea or beaches. Those who want to learn more can choose for example a language course in Latin America, Spain or South Africa.
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    What work related activities can you do abroad?

    • If you want to gain work experience, and/or also earn money, go and work abroad. You can combine backpacking in Australia with temporary work. You can work on campsites in Europe or bush camps in Africa. You can pretty much go all over the world to work in the hospitality industry, hotels and hostels, in the healthcare sector or for example at a diving school.
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    What sports activities to do abroad?

    • Have you ever thought of mountain biking, rafting (going down a wild river on a raft or rubber dinghy, climbing or canoeing), survival (which involves building rafts, climbing or canoeing), abseiling (descending a rock face while secured to ropes), zip-lining (whizzing down a cable), canyoning (starting at the top of a river and then climbing, swimming, diving down the bed) or caving (scrambling, wriggling and crawling through caves and crevices)?
    • Maybe you feel more comfortable on a bodyboard (on a half-wave surfboard, you surf the high waves lying down-with flippers), on a hang glider or while paragliding (with a parachute you float down a mountain or dune), hydrospeeding (on a bodyboard with flippers and a wetsuit on you go down a wild river via rapids) or Tiefschneeskiing (racing down through powder snow)?

    Check the pages below for more activities and inspiration and where to go and how to arrange it

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      Activities abroad: for gap year, sports, travel and outdoor abroad

      Activities abroad: for gap year, sports, travel and outdoor abroad

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      Activities abroad: for intern, volunteer and work abroad per sector

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      Oceania & The Pacific: country bundles

      The Australia & Oceania/Pacific continent consists of many small island countries and islands territories.

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      Organizations: for administrative, tax and legal work and consulting
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      Organizations: for paid employment abroad and international recruitment

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      SPOTLIGHT & FAVORITES

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      Icon Gabon: Updates & Travel
      Gabon: Updates & Travel
      • Travel in Gabon
      • Updates Gabon

        • Travel in Gabon

        • Gabon is one of the most progressive and stable countries in central Africa. Libreville is a cosmopolitan city, and beyond that, Gabon is an undiscovered paradise. The country is becoming increasingly popular among...
      Icon Africa's Eden
      Africa's Eden

      Africa's Eden is een Tour operator en Ground operator. De organisatie heeft als doel om door middel van toerisme geld in te zamelen voor natuurbehoud. Dit wordt gedaan in Dzanga-Sangha reserve (Centraal Afrikaanse Republiek), Loango National Park (Gabon), en de eilanden van Sao Tome & Principe. ...

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      Go abroad!

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