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This Gambia Travel Essentials is not meant to replace a guidebook or web search, but to encourage you to do more research to address your particular level of interest or concern.
The Gambia offers diverse accommodation options, ranging from luxurious coastal resorts to authentic guesthouses and eco-lodges. Coastal Resorts, concentrated around Serrekunda and Kololi, feature beachfront properties with varying budgets, many offering all-inclusive packages. For a more immersive experience, guesthouses and lodges, found throughout the country, provide intimate settings and local interaction, particularly in inland and nature reserve areas. The country caters to all travellers with a variety of choices, from high-end hotels to traditional accommodations, including a growing selection of boutique and eco-friendly options. Location factors are crucial, with coastal areas ideal for beach access and inland areas for cultural and wildlife experiences. Finally, seasonal travel significantly influences pricing and availability, so you should plan accordingly.
The currency in The Gambia is the dalasi. £1 sterling currently buys around 92 dalasis (April 2025). You’ll get a better rate in local exchange bureaus than you will in the hotels or at the airport.
There are a few ATMs in The Gambia where cash can be obtained with a VISA card. Withdrawals from ATM in any single transaction may be limited to between D2000 – D8000 (depending on the bank).
The largest note available is D200 and the smallest D5. Smaller notes are worth hanging on to as they are useful for tipping, and many stall traders will not be able to give you change for larger notes.
Some restaurants and most hotels accept some credit cards, but not all do, so it is best not to rely on them. Visa Electron and Maestro are not accepted. You must always check whether your card is accepted in advance and whether there is any surcharge.
Some hotels will convert your bill into US dollars before showing it as a sterling amount on your statement, which may result in some exchange rate surcharges.
Travellers’ cheques are no longer accepted. The new currency cards are not widely known in The Gambia and may attract a charge if used.
In The Gambia, business hours vary across sectors. The public sector typically operates Monday to Thursday from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, with shortened hours on Friday, 8:00 am to 12:30 pm. Whereas, the private sector generally works Monday to Saturday, though hours are not standardized. Banks usually run from Monday to Thursday, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, and on Fridays, with a break in the early afternoon, and some may open on Saturday mornings. Shops, particularly in tourist areas, have diverse hours, with some smaller stores and mini-markets offering extended or 24-hour service. Due to recent changes in working hours, it is always best to double check with individual businesses.
Some hotels in the Gambia have 3 pin UK style sockets, while others have 2 pin sockets and a few have both. Typically, the Gambia has 1 associated plug type: type G.
Unfortunately, the mains electricity in The Gambia does have some problems. However, hotels have solar power or their own backup generator. If these are needed for long periods, they may need to be switched off to cool down periodically. Such interruptions in supply can affect the efficiency of air-conditioning and the supply of hot water, especially during periods of high demand.
Due to strong fluctuations in current and weather conditions, facilities can be affected.
Please also be aware that, on occasion, repairs can take time as spare parts are not always available locally in The Gambia.
English-speaking knowledgeable driver-guides, drivers and or guides will be provided.
The Gambia offers a vibrant culinary scene, blending traditional West African flavors with international influences. Traditional Gambian dishes include Benachin (Jollof Rice), a flavorful one-pot rice dish; Domoda, a rich peanut stew; Yassa, tangy marinated chicken or fish; Plasas, a nutritious green stew; Akara, deep-fried bean cakes; and Tapalapa Bread, a staple dense bread. Beyond these, you can enjoy fresh seafood, abundant due to the coastal location, and explore the diverse street food scene. International cuisine is also available in tourist areas, and Wonjo juice offers a refreshing local beverage. Try to include local dishes, visiting markets, considering a cooking class, and being mindful of spice levels. Gambian cuisine is a key part of the travel experience, showcasing the country’s culture and hospitality.
There is a fabulous variety of inexpensive restaurants in the main tourist areas in The Gambia, most notably in Kololi but also in Kotu, Bakau and Cape Point. These sell a range of cuisines including Italian, Indian, Chinese, Thai, Mexican, English, African and more. Supporting locally-owned restaurants benefits the local economy, and getting around is easy with taxis being reasonably priced. They are also happy to wait for you while you dine, as they don’t want to lose the return fare. For the more remote hotels, however, you may wish to consider half-board.
Unfortunately, tap water is generally not safe to drink in The Gambia. Bottled water is readily available. However, we all know that plastic pollution is a massive problem for our planet. Do consider taking a water-filtration bottle with you on your holiday.
Please refer to the When to visit The Gambia.
Please refer to the Getting Around The Gambia.
It is best to consult your GP or health clinic before travelling to The Gambia. Although there are no compulsory vaccinations for entry to The Gambia from an European country, specific medication including anti-malarial tablets, as well as yellow fever, hepatitis and typhoid vaccinations will be recommended. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is not required for entry into The Gambia from the EU, but it will need to be shown when passing between The Gambia and Senegal. Your GP or health clinic will advise on recommended vaccinations and prescribe anti-malarial drugs. Children and pregnant women may require special vaccination procedures.
Sexually transmitted diseases (including AIDS) are a serious threat to health throughout the world. Please exercise caution when on holiday.
While the risk of contracting malaria is very real in The Gambia, it is an avoidable illness provided adequate precautions are taken. Consult your GP before booking your holiday, who will prescribe appropriate anti-malarial medication. It is also advisable to use an effective insect repellent, especially in the evenings to avoid being bitten. Remember to continue taking your ant-malarial tablets throughout your stay and after your return home to the UK as instructed by your GP.
When travelling to The Gambia, we suggest that you take with you, medication to treat dehydration, small ailments, stomach upsets, insect bites and cuts.
Medication you could take with you includes:
We recommend that you keep all medications in the original packaging, including prescribed medications (with the sticker showing the patient’s name).
For more information on malaria and other health risks, please visit the Fit For Travel NHS website.
Toilet facilities in The Gambia differ significantly between tourist and rural areas. Tourist zones typically offer Western-style flush toilets in hotels and restaurants, though carrying personal toilet paper is recommended. Rural areas commonly utilise pit latrines and squat toilets, with water often used for cleaning instead of toilet paper. Regardless of location, awareness of differing hygiene practices is crucial, and carrying hand sanitizer is strongly advised.
Sunscreen is crucial in The Gambia due to the year-round high UV radiation, especially during the sunny dry season. Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen, applying it liberally and frequently. Pack a sufficient supply, as local availability and prices can vary. Supplement sunscreen with protective clothing like hats and sunglasses, and seek shade during peak sun hours. Consistent sunscreen use is essential for health and safety in The Gambia. But please remember that if you’re planning any ocean activities, ensure the use of waterproof and “reef-safe” sunscreens that don’t contain oxybenzone, butylparaben, or octinoxate (as these can negatively impact sealife)!
For connectivity in The Gambia, local SIM cards from providers like Africell and QCell offer the most dependable and affordable mobile internet, though 4G/3G coverage and speeds can fluctuate, particularly in rural areas. To avoid costly roaming fees, monitor data usage. Wi-Fi is available in major hotels, often with a local charge, but its reliability and speed can be inconsistent. In many lodges and resorts, Wi-Fi is limited to reception and restaurant areas, and is notably absent at Mandina Lodges.
To enhance your travel experience, download offline maps before arrival, inform your bank of your travel dates, and carry power banks. Be prepared for potential connectivity issues and exercise patience. Prioritise security when using public Wi-Fi, and consider a VPN.
Upon arrival at Banjul airport, you can purchase a local SIM card for approximately D50, requiring identification. Remember that roaming charges are generally high in both The Gambia and Senegal.
For international calls, The Gambia’s country code is +220, and Senegal’s is +221. When calling within either country from a local number, you may need to add a 0 at the start of the sequence. To dial the UK, use +44 or 0044.
Visas are complimentary on arrival into The Gambia for British and European Union passport holders with a full ten-year British passport, valid at least until the date of your arrival back in the UK.
You will need to complete an entry form which will be sent to you with your tickets and it will also be available on your flight. This should be handed in on arrival. The visa for up to 28 days is then stamped on your passport.
Other passport holders should contact the Gambia High Commission for visa requirements. The telephone number for the Gambia High Commission in London is 020 7229 8066.
A visa is not required for British passport holders for entry into Senegal. However, your passport must be valid for at least three months from the date of entry.
Other passport holders should contact the Embassy of Senegal for entry and visa requirements. The telephone number for the Senegal Embassy in London is 020 7938 4048.
Please note, a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required when passing between The Gambia and Senegal.
English is the official language of The Gambia. There are also several tribal languages. Our guides and drivers all speak English.
A policy to cover theft, loss, and medical issues is a must. Please visit our page on travel insurance for further information. It is a good idea to photocopy and scan all relevant documents – passport, travel insurance policy, etc. – and leave one copy at home. Carry another copy with you, separate from the originals and digital versions in your smartphone.
Tipping is most welcome in The Gambia. It can be handy to hang on to your small change when possible to offer modest tips when appropriate.
To truly embrace The Gambia’s charm and ensure a smooth journey, it’s essential to understand the local laws, customs, and cultural nuances. Here’s your insider’s guide:
By respecting the laws, embracing the customs, and understanding the culture, you’ll create unforgettable memories and contribute to a positive tourism experience in The Gambia.
The Gambia presents a highly challenging environment for LGBTQ+ individuals. Legally, same-sex sexual activity is criminalized, with severe penalties including life imprisonment, and gender expression is restricted. Socially, significant stigma and discrimination prevail, fostering a climate of fear. Human rights organizations have documented harassment and abuse, with no legal protections against discrimination. For LGBTQ+ travelers, awareness of the legal and social climate is crucial, and caution is advised, with strict adherence to local laws. In summary, Fleewinter suggests visiting the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA) website and becoming au fait with The Gambia’s cultural traditions and government policies.
Consequently, travelling as an LGBTQ+ person should never be avoided, but we do recommend thorough research before travel.
Several festivals take place in The Gambia every year, most of which are based around the Islamic calendar. Christian festivals are also observed including Good Friday, Easter Monday, Assumption and Christmas Day, which are all public holidays.
This is celebrated on 18th February each year, commemorating The Gambia’s autonomy from Britain on that day in 1965.
Throughout the month-long festival of Ramadan, all physically mature and healthy Muslims are obliged to abstain from all food, drink or tobacco from dawn until sunset. Ramadan is a time for prayer, doing good deeds and spending time with friends and family.
The public holiday of Koriteh marks the end of Ramadan. Following morning prayers, Muslims come together with family and friends to celebrate with an often extravagant feast.
Tobaski, meaning ‘sacrifice’ in the West African language Wolof, is a national holiday to commemorate Allah asking Abraham to sacrifice his only son. At the last minute, Allah told Abraham to offer a sheep instead.
On the morning of Tobaski, every family in The Gambia sacrifices a sheep which is shared between family, friends, neighbours and the poor. There’s a very jovial atmosphere throughout the day.
Keep an eye out too for local festivals and celebrations such as naming ceremonies and weddings, which can be very colourful with music and dancing.
The Gambia and Senegal are in the same time zone as the UK. However, they will be one hour behind the UK when daylight savings time is in effect in the UK.
Travelling with disabilities in The Gambia requires meticulous planning due to significant accessibility challenges. Infrastructure is limited, with uneven sidewalks, inaccessible buildings, and poor road conditions, especially in rural areas. Transportation is generally inaccessible, and taxis may not accommodate mobility aids. Healthcare facilities are limited, with challenges in specialised care and assistive device availability. Social attitudes regarding disability rights vary.
Travelling to The Gambia with children requires thorough preparation for a rewarding experience. However, partnering with Fleewinter will make it a breeze! Our vehicles, guides and accommodation will be tailored to suit your family requirements.
As in most countries, it is unacceptable to photograph people without their permission. Yet, many Gambians may be all too happy to pose – so use your discretion and ask permission. Photography of religious ceremonies, private functions, sacred sites etc should be avoided.
Loose-fitting, comfortable clothing, preferably in cotton or linen, helps keep you cool in hot climates. A sunhat is also advisable to protect you from the intense midday sun, as are sunglasses offering protection against both UVA and UVB light. A jumper or light jacket may be handy for some excursions and in the evenings in the cooler months. If visiting between June and November, an umbrella or light raincoat may be useful.
Please keep in mind that The Gambia is a Muslim country and you may wish to dress more modestly than you would at home.
The Gambia is considered a safe country but all usual care should be taken, just as you would anywhere in the world. It should be noted that pickpockets are active at busy markets, taxi and ferry terminals etc. Walking on the beach after dark is not advisable. For more information on safety in The Gambia, please refer to the government’s Foreign Travel Advice.
The Gambia offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. Like elsewhere in the world, safety is a crucial factor, it’s important to weigh the risks against the potential rewards. By choosing a reputable tour operator, following local guidelines, and being mindful of your surroundings, you can significantly enhance your chances of having a safe and enjoyable trip to this beautiful nation.
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