Did you check a map or remember from geography class that Cameroon and Gabon are neighbors? For us Cameroonians, that’s basic knowledge, but whether you’re from the CEMAC zone or beyond, this guide will give you valuable insights. CEMAC (Central African Economic and Monetary Community) is a regional organization that brings together six Central African countries: Cameroon, Chad, Central African Republic, Republic of Congo, Gabon, and Equatorial Guinea. It aims to promote economic integration, peace, and development within the region by coordinating policies, ensuring free movement of people and goods, and fostering sustainable growth. CEMAC countries share a common currency, the Central African CFA franc, and work together to enhance regional cooperation and stability.

Cameroon, located in Central Africa, is known for its diverse cultures, languages, and landscapes, ranging from beaches to rainforests and mountains. The country serves as a regional hub in Africa, with rich natural resources, vibrant cities, and a mix of both French and English-speaking communities.

On the other hand, Gabon, located on the west coast of Central Africa, is renowned for its lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, and stunning coastline along the Atlantic Ocean. The country is rich in natural resources, including oil, and has a stable political climate, making it one of the more prosperous nations in the region.

My road trip from Cameroon to Gabon didn’t end as planned, but I’m sharing my experience so your adventure might have a happier ending.

Starting the Journey from Cameroon to Gabon

From Ebolowa, I boarded a Dynamique Express bus heading to Kye-Ossi, the last major town before Gabon. The trip took about 2-3 hours, with our driver zooming like he was running late for a race. Passing through Ambam, an old German territory, we reached Kye-Ossi in no time.

Kye Ossi is a border town in southern Cameroon, located near the border with Gabon. It serves as a key entry point for travelers between the two countries, with bustling trade and transportation activities. The town is known for its vibrant local atmosphere and is a starting point for those journeying into Gabon, making it a convenient yet sometimes tricky destination for border-crossing travelers.

Kye-Ossi is a bustling border town where Cameroon, Gabon, and Equatorial Guinea meet. From the bus station, I hopped on a motorbike for 300 FCFA to the border. This is where the real adventure began.

The Cameroon to Gabon Border Reality

At the border, I met two Cameroonian police officers who were surprisingly chatty. When I told them I was traveling to Gabon as a tourist, they were amused but skeptical. They warned me about strict Gabonese regulations, including a hefty entry fee of 40,000 FCFA ($70).

Here’s where it got complicated. According to them, Gabon would deny entry unless I had proof of accommodation or knew someone with a Cameroonian residence permit in Gabon. A simple hotel reservation wouldn’t cut it—they would call the hotel to verify your booking. No booking? No entry.

They also mentioned that Gabonese officials demand a confirmed return date. The more I listened, the more overwhelmed I felt. At this point, I realized my chances of crossing were slim without the right documents.

You will believe me more when you read the disappointing story of a Cameroonian travel biker who invested time cycling from Cameroon to Gabon. I’ll let you read the details on his blog for the full experience.

I believed them because I had read a similar story from a Polish tourist who was stuck around Kye Ossi for a long time, all due to the hotel booking requirement. You can check out his story on his website.

I thought I was overanalyzing until I read comments from several tourists on a reputable travel blog and Facebook group called iOverlander. Nearly everyone recommends avoiding the northern border of Gabon for similar reasons, suggesting that these policies aren’t limited to Cameroonians or Central Africans.

The Return to Ebolowa

Disappointed, I decided to head back to Ebolowa. On the bus from Kye Ossi to Ebolowa, about 30 people were chatting like old friends. I heard from some travelers, including a Cameroonian who had lived in Gabon for 10 years with a residence permit. He showed me a paper proving his legal status and said that although the process was tough, it was possible for Cameroonians to live there peacefully.

One traveler, a professor, shared his experience. He was granted entry at the border with just his work documents, but when he arrived at the Bitam bus station, the driver demanded an additional 100,000 CFA ($140) in bribes. He was also told there would be numerous police stops, requiring more bribes, which he refused to pay. Disappointed, he turned back.

In hindsight, I regret not speaking to the Gabonese officers directly. However, I didn’t want to risk paying bribes to Cameroonian immigration officers, so I chose not to attempt the trip.

Why Flying Might Be Better

One piece of advice stood out: avoid land borders. Getting a visa from the Gabonese embassy in Yaoundé or flying into Libreville could save you the hassle. At the airport, no one cares much about your documents if you’ve got a visa.

Why the Border from Cameroon to Gabon Is Tough

There’s a rumor that many Cameroonians commit crimes in Gabon, which has led to stricter regulations at land borders. While it’s unfair to be judged by others’ actions, it’s the reality we face.

My Advice

If you’re determined to visit Gabon, here’s what you need:

• A confirmed hotel booking with proof of payment.
• A contact with a residence permit in Gabon.
• Enough money for bribes or unexpected fees.
• A valid visa if you’re not taking a flight.

Avoid the northern border if you can. It’s easier to enter Gabon by air or through the southern border with Congo.

Final Thoughts

My trip from Cameroon to Gabon didn’t go as planned, but that doesn’t mean yours won’t. Come prepared, brace for surprises, and consider flying to avoid unnecessary stress. For now, I’ll stick to reading other people’s stories about Gabon—until I’m ready to try again.

If you’ve enjoyed my travel stories, you’ll find more on my blog. I share challenges, tips, and insights on crossing borders and exploring new places. From dealing with tricky immigration to learning from fellow travelers, my posts aim to help you avoid common mistakes and make your trip smoother. Check out the blog for more adventures and advice.