Know Before You Go

Most Western nationals receive a 30-day tourist visa on arrival or via eVisa (www.gambia.com/eVisa). Passport must be valid for 6+ months. Yellow fever vaccination is recommended (not always enforced) but carry the certificate. Proof of accommodation may be requested. ECOWAS citizens can enter visa-free for 90 days.

Gambian dalasi (GMD) is the currency; 1 EUR is roughly 67 GMD. ATMs are available in Banjul and beach towns but unreliable. Carry cash (EUR or USD) as backup. Credit cards are accepted in hotels and larger restaurants but not street vendors. Informal money changers are common; use ATMs or banks for better rates.

Mobile providers: Gamtel and Africell dominate. Prepaid SIM cards are cheap (GMD 100+). Data bundles are affordable (1GB for ~GMD 100-150). Coverage is good in populated areas and along river routes. WiFi is common in hotels, tourist areas, and restaurants. Mobile networks are reliable for calls and data in towns.

Intercity travel is by shared bush taxis or minibuses (inexpensive but slow). River transport is iconic: ferries and boat excursions operate along the Gambia River. Taxis within Banjul are metered; elsewhere negotiate upfront. Car rental is available (GMD 600-1000/day). Roads are reasonable but potholed in places. The river is navigable and offers scenic travel and wildlife viewing.

Yellow fever vaccination recommended. Malaria endemic; start antimalarial medication before arrival. Dengue and typhoid are present. Tap water is unsafe in remote areas; drink bottled water in cities. Medical facilities in Banjul are basic; serious cases may require evacuation to Senegal. Travel insurance covering medical evacuation is recommended. Pharmacies are stocked in towns.

English is the official language, facilitating communication. Mandinka, Wolof, and Fula are spoken daily. Greet with handshakes and friendly tone. Photography of people requires permission. Dress modestly, especially in Muslim areas and during Ramadan. Bargaining is expected in markets but should be friendly. Respect Islamic practices and government. The Gambian people are known for hospitality; reciprocate with genuine interest and kindness.

Dry season (November-May) is best; temperatures 20-35C, low rainfall. December-February is coolest and most visited (high prices). Rainy season (June-October) brings humidity; flooding in low areas. Harmattan wind (Dec-Feb) brings dust but clear skies. The Gambia River is navigable year-round but most picturesque in dry season. Best time: November-February for comfort and visibility.

Banjul International (BJL) is the sole airport, served by Royal Air Maroc, Brussels Airlines, Turkish Airlines, and occasional charters. Senegal via the Senegambia Bridge crossing (easy overland); Guinea-Bissau via river and road. Limited ferry service; regional air hubs in Dakar (Senegal) are primary access. The Gambia River is navigable for local transport and historic river cruises from Banjul upriver to Kuntaur.