Filming in Gabon, with its beautiful rainforests, diverse wildlife, and jaw dropping coastlines, offers filmmakers an untouched paradise. Its commitment to conservation ensures breathtaking, well-preserved filming locations.
Gabon offers lush rainforests, scenic coastlines, and diverse wildlife, making it a captivating filming destination. With well-structured permitting processes and rich biodiversity, Gabon provides unique opportunities for filmmakers.
Libreville
French
Central African CFA franc (XAF)
Gabon has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons - Wet Season (October – May): High humidity with frequent rainfall. Hottest Period (January – April): Temperatures range between 25–27°C along the coast and 22–25°C inland.
Gabon boasts breathtaking landscapes and diverse filming opportunities:
Known for its beaches, rainforests, and unique wildlife (surfing hippos and forest elephants).
Stunning coastal scenery and nesting sea turtles.
Home to Kongou Falls and pristine rainforest.
Urban settings, colonial architecture, and bustling cityscapes.
Coastal city with harbors, beaches, and maritime activities.
Historic town on the Ogooué River, known for its scenic waterways.
A remote coastal paradise with migrating whales and unspoiled beaches.
Visa policies vary by nationality, with some countries being visa-exempt.
A valid health insurance policy, along with proof of accommodation, a letter of invitation (if applicable), and a return travel itinerary, are all required for entry.
Approx. $200
3–7 working days
Required for government-related events and media coverage.
Passport, Media mission order from employer/local invitation
3–7 working days
Event-specific
Film permits are issued by the Ministry of Communication and are required for all productions.
Drone flights in Gabon require permits, and foreign drones are not allowed for importation.
Gabon is not a Carnet country, meaning alternative clearance procedures are required.
All equipment must be declared upon arrival. A deposit may be required at airport customs for clearance.
Detailed equipment list with serial numbers, Customs clearance application
Gabonese Customs Authority
3–10 days
Gabon is generally a safe destination for travelers; however, taking the right precautions is absolutely essential to ensure a smooth, stress-free, and secure experience. While major cities like Libreville typically provide a relatively safe environment, suburban and remote areas, on the other hand, can present higher risks, particularly after dark. As a result, it is highly recommended that visitors stay vigilant at all times. In addition, avoiding walking alone at night, keeping valuables properly secured, and using trusted transportation services can significantly reduce potential risks. Furthermore, staying in well-lit areas and being aware of surroundings at all times will help enhance safety.
For film crews, securing official permissions and carefully following all local guidelines is not only important but also absolutely necessary for ensuring safety throughout the production process. In addition to obtaining permits, production teams should also establish clear security measures to protect both crew members and equipment. Moreover, they can proactively request military or police assistance through the Ministry of the Interior, which will further enhance security during on-location filming. Consequently, by taking these steps and working with local authorities, production teams can operate smoothly and with confidence while capturing Gabon’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture.
Avoid isolated areas after dark. Military presence can be requested via the Ministry of the Interior for on-ground filming security.
