Gabon Internet Packages & Data Plan of 2024

Last Updated on November 28, 2023 by

Gabon SIM Cards: Everything You Need To Know

1. Overview:

Gabon, located on the west coast of Central Africa, has a well-established telecommunications network. Obtaining a local SIM card is essential for tourists and expatriates to stay connected with friends, family, and access mobile data services.

2. Major Telecom Operators:

• Airtel Gabon: One of the leading telecom operators, Airtel provides extensive coverage across the country.
• Gabon Telecom: The state-owned telecommunications company offers reliable services and broad coverage.
• Moov Gabon: Another popular choice, Moov provides competitive rates and good network coverage.

3. Where to Buy:

• Airports: SIM cards are available for purchase at Libreville International Airport and other major airports in Gabon.
• Local Shops: Numerous shops and kiosks in urban areas sell SIM cards.
• Telecom Stores: Official stores of Airtel, Gabon Telecom, and Moov are scattered across cities.

4. Documentation Requirements:

• Tourists: Generally, tourists need to provide a copy of their passport and sometimes proof of accommodation.
• Residents: Residents might need additional documentation, such as a residence permit.

5. Registration Process:

• Visit a Store: Go to an authorized store of the chosen telecom operator.
• Submit Documents: Present your identification documents for verification.
• Registration: Fill out the required forms, and your SIM card will be registered.

6. Top-Up and Recharge:

• Scratch Cards: Available at most convenience stores and telecom outlets.
• Mobile Apps: Telecom operators usually have apps for easy online top-ups.
• USSD Codes: Dial specific codes to recharge directly from your phone.

7. Coverage and Network Quality:

• Urban Areas: Generally, the network quality is excellent in cities like Libreville and Port-Gentil.
• Rural Areas: Rural coverage might vary; some remote areas may have limited connectivity.

8. Data Plans and Packages:

• Prepaid Plans: Offer a variety of data, talk time, and validity options.
• Data Packages: Specific packages for mobile data catering to various needs.

9. International Roaming:

• Activation: Contact your operator to activate international roaming if needed.
• Charges: Be aware of the roaming charges; they can be relatively high.

10. Lost or Stolen SIM Cards:

• Report: Immediately report the loss to your telecom provider.
• Replacement: Follow the operator’s procedure for obtaining a replacement SIM card.

11. Emergency Services:

• Dialing Codes: Know the local emergency numbers for police, medical, and fire services.

12. Tips and Recommendations:

• Check Compatibility: Ensure your phone is compatible with Gabonese networks.
• Balance Inquiry: Know how to check your balance and data usage regularly.
• Language: The official languages are French and Fang, so some services may be in French.

Buying a SIM card for Gabon in 2024

Traveling to Gabon in 2024 can be an enriching experience, with its stunning national parks and vibrant culture. Staying connected is essential for safety, navigation, and keeping in touch with loved ones. Here’s your guide to purchasing a SIM card in Gabon:

1. Understand the Local Providers:
   • Gabon has several mobile network providers, including Airtel Gabon, Gabon Telecom, and Moov Africa Gabon Telecom. It’s important to research your options and understand the coverage each one offers, especially if you plan to visit remote areas.
2. Coverage and Network Types:
   • Prioritize providers with the best coverage, particularly 4G/LTE, to ensure you can access high-speed internet across most urban areas. Coverage in rural areas may be limited.
3. Where to Buy a SIM Card:
   • Upon arrival, you can purchase SIM cards at the Libreville International Airport or at retail stores and official outlets in major cities. Sometimes, vendors on the street also sell SIM cards, but it’s safer to buy from an official source.
4. Required Documentation:
   • Prepare to show your passport when purchasing a SIM card. Registration of SIM cards is mandated by the government, and you will need to provide personal information as part of this process.
5. Prepaid or Contract?:
   • As a visitor, prepaid SIM cards are typically the most convenient. They come with a variety of data and call packages, allowing you to control your expenditure without long-term commitments.
6. Data Packages and Pricing:
   • Data packages vary from provider to provider. Make sure to compare the deals for data, call, and text before making a decision. Sometimes promotional deals are available, especially for tourists.
7. Top-up Options:
   • Credit for your SIM card can be purchased at various outlets, supermarkets, or online. Some providers offer easy top-up through their websites or specific USSD codes.
8. Compatibility and Unlocking Phones:
   • Ensure your phone is unlocked and compatible with Gabon’s GSM network. The primary bands used in Gabon are 900/1800 MHz for GSM and band 3 (1800 MHz) for LTE. If your phone is locked to your home provider, you may need to unlock it before departure.
9. Customer Service:
   • Consider the quality of customer service when choosing a provider. Being able to get support when needed is crucial, especially if faced with technical issues.
10. Roaming Charges:
    • Be aware of roaming charges if you’re planning to use your home SIM card in Gabon. These can be exorbitantly high, so a local SIM card is generally the more economical choice.
11. Emergency Services:
    • Familiarize yourself with the local emergency numbers. In Gabon, the general emergency number is 1730. With a local SIM card, accessing emergency services becomes more straightforward.
12. Check the Expiry:
    • Prepaid SIM cards often have an expiry date for credit and data. Ensure you’re aware of these limits to avoid losing your balance.

In summary, obtaining a SIM card in Gabon involves choosing the right provider with the best coverage for your needs, understanding the pricing and data packages, ensuring your phone’s compatibility, and managing top-ups effectively. Lastly, always prioritize safety by keeping informed about emergency contact numbers and respecting local regulations during your stay in Gabon.

Gabon Telecom (Libertis, Moov) Data Packages

Data	Time	Price
130 MB	1 day	500 CFA
20 MB	2 days	200 CFA
300 MB	2 days	1000 CFA
40 MB	3 days	350 CFA
500 MB	3 days	1500 CFA
1 GB	3 days	2500 CFA
60 MB	5 days	500 CFA
2 GB	7 days	4500 CFA
130 MB	10 days	1000 CFA
300 MB	14 days	2000 CFA
5 GB	15 days	8000 CFA
600 MB	30 days	3000 CFA
1 GB	30 days	4000 CFA
2 GB	30 days	6000 CFA
4 GB	30 days	10,000 CFA
10 GB	30 days	15,000 CFA
15 GB	30 days	20,000 CFA
25 GB	30 days	30,000 CFA
50 GB	30 days	50,000 CFA

Airtel Gabon Data Packages

Data	Time	Price
25 MB	2 days	250 CFA
60 MB	5 days	500 CFA
100 MB	14 days	1000 CFA
150 MB	14 days	1200 CFA
250 MB	30 days	2000 CFA
300 MB	2 days	1000 CFA
500 MB	3 days	1500 CFA
650 MB	Sat/Sun	1000 CFA
1 GB	3 days	2500 CFA
1 GB	30 days	4000 CFA
1.2 GB	30 days	5000 CFA
1.5 GB	7 days	4000 CFA
2 GB	7 days	5000 CFA
4 GB	30 days	10,000 CFA
5 GB	15 days	8000 CFA
10 GB	30 days	20,000 CFA
40 GB	60 days	40,000 CFA
200 GB	60 days	90,000 CFA

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