VAALCO Energy, Inc. Quarterly report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d)

Revenue (Narrative) (Details) $ in Thousands	9 Months Ended
Revenue (Narrative) (Details) $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2018 USD ($)
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]
Initial crude oil sales and purchase agreement period	1 year
Interval period, between lifting	30 days
Monthly royalty rate, based on production at the published price	13.00%
Working interest of carried partner, percentage	7.50%
Future working interest of carried partner percentage	10.00%
Income taxes paid in-kind with oil	$ 9,385
Foreign taxes payable attributable to sharing obligation	$ 1,800
Maximum [Member]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]
Lifting period, time to complete	2 days
Minimum [Member]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]
Lifting period, time to complete	1 day