People & place
9.5 /km² across 267,670 km²
Gabon has a recorded population of 2,538,952 and a reported surface area of 267,670 km².
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Middle AfricaGabon
Gabon is a country or territory in Middle Africa. Its capital is Libreville.
- Population
- 2.5M9.5 /km²
- Surface area
- 267,670 km²
- GDP
- $20.9B$8K per capita
- Capital
- Libreville
Gabon is located in Middle Africa, and its capital is Libreville. It has a population of approximately 2,538,952 and covers an area of about 267,670 km². Its official currency is the Central African CFA franc (XAF).
What stands out
Economic snapshot
$20.90 billion nominal GDP
Nominal GDP is recorded at $20.90 billion and GDP per capita at $8,230 for 2024. These measures do not describe income distribution or household wealth.
Practical reference
Central African CFA franc (XAF)
Gabon uses Central African CFA franc (XAF), calling code +241, internet domain .ga.
About Gabon
Gabon, nestled on the equatorial coast of Central Africa, captivates visitors with its lush rainforests, vibrant wildlife, and a blend of traditional African and French influences that shape its unique identity.
Dominated by dense tropical rainforests and crisscrossed by the mighty Ogooué River, Gabon's landscape also boasts pristine Atlantic beaches, rolling savannas, and the striking sandstone formations of the Ivindo and Loango National Parks, making it a haven for biodiversity and ecotourism.
Gabonese culture pulses with rhythmic music, especially the iconic soukous and traditional masks used in ceremonial dances; its cuisine blends fresh seafood, plantains, and cassava, while festivals like the annual Gabon International Film Festival celebrate artistic expression and community spirit.
In 1960, Gabon peacefully achieved independence from France under the leadership of Léon M'ba, setting the stage for a relatively stable political trajectory that has fostered economic growth driven by its abundant oil reserves and timber resources.
Key facts
- Approximately 80% of Gabon's land is covered by protected rainforest reserves.
- The country’s per capita income is among the highest in sub‑Saharan Africa, largely due to oil production.
- Libreville, the capital, was originally a small fishing village before becoming a colonial administrative center.
This overview is AI-assisted and grounded with available atlas facts and reference material. Treat linked primary data as authoritative. Read the methodology.
Country data & reference
Capital
Libreville
Population
2,538,952 (9.5 /km²)
Surface Area
267,670 km²
GDP
$20.90 billion (2024)
GDP per Capita
$8,230 (2024)
Region / Subregion
Native Name
Gabon
Nationality
Gabonese
Phone Code
+241
Top-Level Domain
.ga
ISO Codes
GA / GAB
Coordinates
-1, 11.75
Time zones
- Africa/Libreville (UTC+01:00)
Population, area and economic figures use the latest available values from World Bank Open Data; reporting years can vary by country. See sources and methodology for indicator definitions, mapping attribution, and editorial limitations.
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Gabon: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capital of Gabon?
The capital of Gabon is Libreville.
What is the population of Gabon?
Gabon has a recorded population of approximately 2,538,952 people.
How big is Gabon?
Gabon covers an area of about 267,670 km².
What is the population density of Gabon?
Gabon has a population density of roughly 9.5 /km² (people per square kilometre).
What is the GDP of Gabon?
Gabon has a gross domestic product (GDP) of approximately $20.90 billion as of 2024.
What is the GDP per capita of Gabon?
Gabon has a GDP per capita of approximately $8,230.
What currency is used in Gabon?
Gabon uses the Central African CFA franc (XAF), with the symbol FCFA.
Where is Gabon located?
Gabon is located in Middle Africa, Africa.
What are people from Gabon called?
People from Gabon are referred to as Gabonese.
What is the phone calling code for Gabon?
The international dialing code for Gabon is +241.
What is the internet domain for Gabon?
The country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for Gabon is .ga.
What time zone is Gabon in?
Gabon uses the Africa/Libreville time zone.
What is Gabon known for?
Gabon, nestled on the equatorial coast of Central Africa, captivates visitors with its lush rainforests, vibrant wildlife, and a blend of traditional African and French influences that shape its unique identity.
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