Moanda, Gabon π¬π¦
#1469
-1.554004, 13.220574
Nomad Score:
41%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Moanda is a city located in the southeastern region of Gabon, known for its mining industry and proximity to natural resources. |
π₯ Population | Approximately 50,000 residents. |
π» Internet Speed | Average speed of about 5-10 Mbps, with access to 4G in some areas. |
πΈ Currency & Banking | Gabon uses Central African CFA Franc (XAF). Approximately 600 XAF = 1 USD. |
π° Tap Water | Generally not drinkable; bottled water is recommended. |
π Power | Electricity supply is 220V, 50Hz, with Type C/E sockets. |
πΆ SIM Card | Main providers include Airtel and Moov, with prepaid options widely available. |
π³ Banking for Expats | Local banks like BGFI Bank and SociΓ©tΓ© GΓ©nΓ©rale; international cards are accepted in larger cities. |
π Accommodation | Options vary from local guesthouses to serviced apartments, generally starting from $20 per night. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | Limited; cash is preferred in many local transactions. |
π Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local guesthouses are available for short stays, starting around $25 per night. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Affordable options include local inns and hostels, with rates around $15-30 per night. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | Currently, there are no dedicated coworking spaces in Moanda; remote work is typically done in cafes or at home. |
β Best Cafe for Work | Les DΓ©lices de Moanda offers a cozy atmosphere with decent Wi-Fi. |
πΌ Networking Events | No established networking events; social interactions rely heavily on local communities. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | Small expat gatherings may occur informally, generally organized through social media groups. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | Local taxis are available; no major ride-sharing apps like Uber currently operate in Moanda. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Limited options for bike rentals; private bicycles are common. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | Pongara Beach, which is approximately 1.5 hours away by car. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | Regional flights operated by Air Gabon. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | International connections primarily through Libreville International Airport. |
π£οΈ Highway Access | Well-connected to national highways, facilitating transport to major cities. |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | Limited public transportation; buses and taxis are the primary means. |
π Public Transport Passes | No specific transit passes available; pay per ride on buses. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Travel to nearby cities via local buses or shared taxis. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | Centre Hospitalier de Moanda, providing basic healthcare services. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | Currently, there are no dedicated yoga studios in Moanda. |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Basic local gyms available, often associated with hotels. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | Local laundromats are available, pricing around $5-$10 per service. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | No delivery apps; local restaurants typically do not offer delivery services. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Try 'Poulet Nyembwe' β a local chicken dish cooked in groundnut sauce. |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Limited; local markets provide fresh produce for DIY meals. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | Local bakeries offer traditional pastries, although options may be limited. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | Weekly markets are a good place for local and affordable produce. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | Limited; most purchases are done in local shops. |
π Grocery Delivery | No dedicated grocery delivery services in Moanda. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | Local bars offer social venues, but nightlife is relatively quiet. |
π» Local Brewery | Limited local beer options; MBOA beer is popular. |
π· Wine Bars | Few wine bars; most wine is available in restaurants. |
π² Street Food Stalls | Street vendors offer grilled meats and local snacks, especially in market areas. |
π Popular International Cuisine | Cuisine mainly consists of African dishes; local restaurants offer limited international options. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | The Moanda Market and local churches represent the local culture. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | There are currently no prominent museums dedicated to the arts. |
π° Historical Sites | Few military monuments and colonial-era structures can be explored. |
π Religious Sites | Several churches and local religious sites that reflect the community's culture. |
π Annual Events | Local festivals celebrate various aspects of Gabonese culture, though precise events may vary yearly. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | Moanda has areas characterized by its market life and communal gatherings. |
π Theater Venues | Limited cultural performances; local gatherings often include music and dance. |
ποΈ Local Markets | Visit the Moanda Central Market for local crafts and products. |
πΌ Music Scene | Local music is vibrant, with traditional rhythms being a significant part of culture. |
π¨ Street Art | Street art is minimal; community murals may be found in urban zones. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Not available; locals can offer cooking tips directly. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | Limited artistic expressions showcased in informal settings. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | Residents often preserve colonial-style homes in the area. |
π΄ Local Heritage | Gabonese culture deeply influences local customs and traditions. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | Explore the surrounding forests and waterfalls, ideal for hiking. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | Ivindo National Park is a notable nearby location, approx. 3 hours away. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | Limited; some rural paths available for walking and cycling. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | Viewpoints near local hills offer scenic landscapes. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | Natural reserves nearby are ideal for birdwatching. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Designated areas in private property; check local regulations. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | Local postal services available, but international deliveries may take time. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | Small local shops may offer basic electronic repairs. |
π Table Tennis Spots | Community centers sometimes feature recreational facilities. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | Limited formal classes; language exchange through local interactions is common. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | No formal libraries; reading can be done in private accommodations. |
ποΈ Community Centers | Small community centers exist, focusing on local culture and gatherings. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | Gaming spots are few; most gaming happens at home. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | No established casinos in Moanda. |
Business
π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. XAF 350,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = XAF 14,000,000). |
π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. XAF 300,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = XAF 12,000,000). |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. XAF 330,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = XAF 19,800,000). |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. XAF 280,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = XAF 16,800,000). |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. XAF 320,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = XAF 25,600,000). |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. XAF 250,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = XAF 20,000,000). |
πΌ Corporate Tax | Standard corporate tax rate is 30%. |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | 15% withholding tax on dividends. |
π¦ Tax System | Gabon has a progressive tax system based on income. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | Up to 35% for high income earners. |
π§Ύ VAT | Value Added Tax is set at 18%. |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, Gabon has strict regulations on foreign income. |
π Property Tax | Annual property tax based on assessed value. |
π Property Transaction Tax | Standard rate of 10% applies during sale transactions. |