Gambia Travel Guide: Essential Tips

Explore the Gambia: Tips on Driving, Safety, and Culture

Flag of the Gambia

Top 10 Most Searched Questions About the Gambia

The capital of the Gambia is Banjul, a coastal city known for its markets and colonial architecture.

Visa requirements vary. UK citizens don’t need a visa for stays up to 90 days; US and EU citizens may need one. Check with the Gambia Government.

The Gambia uses the Dalasi (GMD). Coins come in 25 and 50 bututs, and 1 Dalasi; banknotes are 5, 10, 20, 25, 50, 100, and 200 Dalasi.

The Gambia is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime like pickpocketing occurs in Banjul and tourist areas like Kololi. Avoid isolated areas at night.

The official language is English. Local languages like Mandinka, Wolof, and Fula are widely spoken, especially in rural areas.

The Gambia is known for the Gambia River, Kunta Kinteh Island (a UNESCO site), its vibrant markets, and the beaches of Kololi.

The dry season (November-May) is best, with sunny weather and temperatures around 25-30°C. The rainy season (June-October) can be humid with heavy rains.

The Gambia is relatively affordable. Budget travelers can manage on $30-50/day, though resorts in Kololi can be pricier.

No, tap water isn’t safe to drink. Stick to bottled water, widely available in Banjul and tourist areas.

Top spots include Kunta Kinteh Island, the beaches of Kololi, Abuko Nature Reserve, Banjul’s Arch 22, and the Wassu Stone Circles.

The Gambia, a small West African nation along the Gambia River, is surrounded by Senegal. Its capital, Banjul, offers bustling markets, while Kunta Kinteh Island (a UNESCO site) reflects its history. Highlights include the beaches of Kololi and Abuko Nature Reserve, blending culture and nature.

Visa & Passport for the Gambia: Entry Requirements for Travelers

  • Passport Requirements: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay with at least one blank page.
  • Visa Requirements: UK citizens can stay visa-free for up to 90 days. US and EU citizens may need a visa—check with the Gambia Government.
  • Health Entry Rules: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if arriving from an infected area. Malaria precautions are advised—check the Gambia Ministry of Health.

Driving in the Gambia: Traffic Rules & Tips for Tourists

  • Driver’s License: An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your license, especially for stays over 3 months.
  • Traffic Rules: Drive on the right. Seat belts are mandatory. Speed limits are typically 50 km/h in urban areas and 80 km/h on highways like the Banjul-Serekunda road. The blood alcohol limit is 0.05%.
  • Road Conditions: Main roads like Banjul to Serekunda are paved but narrow. Rural roads, such as those to Janjanbureh, can be unpaved and rough—use a 4WD vehicle.
  • Parking: Parking in Banjul is informal—use designated lots near markets or hotels. Avoid leaving valuables in the car.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 117 for police or 118 for ambulance. Roadside assistance is limited—consider renting through reputable agencies.
  • Useful Resource: For more on driving regulations, visit Gambia Tourism Board.

Gambia Currency: Using the Dalasi for Your Trip

  • Dalasi: The Gambia uses the Dalasi (GMD). Coins come in 25 and 50 bututs, and 1 Dalasi; banknotes are 5, 10, 20, 25, 50, 100, and 200 Dalasi.
  • Currency Exchange: Exchange money at banks or licensed bureaus in Banjul or Serekunda—avoid street vendors due to scams. US dollars and Euros are widely accepted in tourist areas.
  • Payment Methods: Cash is king, especially in rural areas. Cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted in major hotels and restaurants in Kololi and Banjul.
  • ATMs: ATMs are available in Banjul and Serekunda, but they can be unreliable—carry backup cash. Banks like Standard Chartered offer better services.

Gambia Legal Guide: Laws Travelers Should Know

  • Local Laws: Drug possession is illegal and carries heavy penalties. Homosexuality is illegal—LGBTQ+ travelers should exercise caution.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: The Gambia is predominantly Muslim—dress modestly, especially during Ramadan. Avoid public displays of affection. Greet locals with “Salaam Alaikum” to show respect.
  • Photography Restrictions: Avoid photographing government buildings, military sites, or locals without permission, especially in rural areas.
  • Public Behavior: Public drunkenness can lead to fines. Respect local customs, like removing shoes when entering homes or mosques.
  • Customs Rules: You can bring 1 liter of spirits or 2 liters of wine and 200 cigarettes duty-free. Declare cash over $10,000 USD upon entry or exit.
  • Emergency Contact: Dial 117 for police or 118 for ambulance. For non-urgent issues, contact local police stations in Banjul.

Travel Safety in the Gambia: Staying Safe on Your Trip

  • Crime in the Gambia: Petty crime like pickpocketing is common in Banjul’s markets and Kololi’s beaches. Violent crime is rare but avoid isolated areas at night.
  • Road Safety: Roads can be poorly lit—avoid driving at night. Watch for pedestrians and animals on rural roads like those to Janjanbureh.
  • Health Risks: Malaria is a risk—use mosquito nets and repellents. Tap water isn’t safe; stick to bottled water. Yellow fever vaccination may be required—check entry rules.
  • Natural Hazards: The rainy season (June-October) can cause flooding in Banjul and rural areas—avoid travel during heavy rains. Coastal erosion affects some beaches like Kololi.
  • Medical Facilities: Banjul has hospitals like the Royal Victoria Teaching Hospital, but facilities are limited—travel with insurance for emergencies.
  • Emergency Contacts: Dial 117 for police, 118 for ambulance. Pharmacies in Banjul and Serekunda stock basic medications—look for “pharmacy” signs.
  • Public Transport Safety: Shared taxis and “gele-gele” minibuses are common but can be overcrowded—watch for pickpockets. Ferries to Kunta Kinteh Island are generally safe but check weather conditions.

Flights to the Gambia: Travel Options

Banjul International Airport (BJL) is the main gateway, with flights from cities like London, Brussels, and Dakar. Budget carriers like TUI fly offer seasonal routes.