Gambia Travel Guide

Overview

Capital:

Banjul.

Geography:

The Gambia, situated on West Africa's Atlantic coast, is a thin ribbon of land, at no point wider than 50km (30 miles), running east-west on both banks of the River Gambia. In the east, where the river dwindles, the country is barely 15km (9 miles) wide. The smallest and westernmost mainland African nation, The Gambia is essentially an enclave of Senegal with whom it shares 740km (460 miles) of land border. To the west though, The Gambia is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and has 80km (50 miles) of coastline.

The country is predominantly a low plateau, which decreases in height as it nears the Atlantic coast. The plateau is bisected by the river and is broken in a few places by low flat-topped hills and by the river's tributaries. The landscape is essentially flat, with the highest point just 53m (174ft) above sea level. In the west of the country, near the coast, the riverbanks are backed mainly by mangrove swamps, while in the inland area, which extends from central Gambia to the eastern border, the river is lined by steep, red ironstone banks covered with tropical forest.

Away from the river, find wooded, park-like savannah, with large areas carpeted by a variety of trees such as baobab, silk-cotton, mahogany and oil palm. On the coast, the river meets the Atlantic with impressive sand cliffs and 50km (31 miles) of beaches, the best of which are broad, palm-fringed and strewn with shells.

Getting There

Getting There By Air

Direct flights from London to Banjul are few and far between, however, Titan Airways (www.titan-airways.com) offers a direct flight service, flying from London Gatwick (LGW) weekly between May-Oct and twice weekly from London Gatwick (LGW), Birmingham (BHX) and Manchester (MAN) between Nov-April. Most holidaymakers arrive by charter flight. There are competitively priced charter flights. Brussels Airlines (www.brusselsairlines.com) flies to Banjul from Brussels.

Travellers from North America generally fly via Europe or Dakar as there are currently no direct scheduled flights available.

Air Travel Note

There is no airport bus to Banjul city centre but there are plenty of private tourist taxis available. Shuttle buses and minibuses are often arranged by hotels and resorts.

Departure Tax

Included in the air fare.

Flight Times

From London - 6 hours 30 minutes; New York – 12 hours 45 minutes (including stopovers).

Getting There By Road

All road borders are shared with Senegal and connections between the two are reasonably efficient. Private taxis can be hired between Dakar (Senegal) and Barra, from which there is a regular ferry service to Banjul. The journey takes around 35 minutes.

There is a second crossing point at Farafenni, en route from Dakar to Janjangbureh or westwards to Barra. To reach Banjul from Farafenni, you may also follow the Trans-Gambia Highway which connects northern and southern Gambia via the Senegambia Bridge. Once across, drive westwards to Banjul following the South Bank Road then continuing on Brikama Highway then Banjul Serrekunda Highway.

Government buses also run between The Gambia and Senegal, via Barra to Kaolak and Dakar; you may also travel via a Gambian coach service.

Getting There By Water

The Gambia isn’t very accessible by boat. Although there are freighters sailing to Banjul and it is possible to take a cabin on board one of these, it isn’t done regularly or cheaply.

Getting Around

Getting Around By Air

There are currently no domestic flights available within The Gambia.

Bike

Available to hire at many hotels and resorts, these are a cheap and convenient way to explore the country as the landscape is flat and distances are short. If you get tired, load the bike onto a bus or bush taxi for a small luggage fee.

Breakdown Services

There is no automobile association or official organisation, but there are lots of improvised garages along major roads where minor repairs can be made.

Car Hire

Greater Banjul has a few local and international providers including Avis (www.avis.co.uk). Alternatively, the resort areas are best equipped to supply hire vehicles. It is more common to hire a car and a driver for a daily rate, especially for longer journeys. You can also pick up a vehicle at Banjul International Airport. Driving can be difficult due to variable road conditions; some minor roads become impassable during the rainy season (June to October). Please note that hired cars cannot be driven out of the Gambia into Senegal. Most companies will require you to be 25 years old to rent a car. UK Nationals using a UK driving license may drive for up to three months.

Coach

The Gambia Transport Service Company (www.gtsc.gm/) connects the major cities and towns throughout the day although departures are irregular and journey times often long.

Documentation

An International Driving Permit is accepted for up to three months. A temporary licence is available from the local authorities on presentation of a valid national licence.

Getting Around By Rail

There is no passenger railway in The Gambia.

Regulations

Drive on the right and overtake on the left, but beware that drivers often stick to whichever bit of road is in the best condition. There are almost no streetlights, so take care after dark.

Speed limits are 70kph (43mph) on major highways and 25kph (16mph) in residential areas.

Getting Around By Road

Driving is often difficult and slow. Roads in the city centre, around resort towns and those leading to the hotel areas from the airport are reasonably good. However, venture away from those areas and you’ll find more unpaved roads or heavily potholed roads. Vehicles often have to weave slowly and dramatically or drive adjacent to the road on a dirt track to avoid potholes.

Although locals will as a rule drive on the right side, they will often drive on the most accessible portion of the road. Be cautious when driving.

There is a limited number of streetlights in The Gambia. Make sure your car has working headlights and drive with caution during the night. It may also be worth bringing a small torch.

During the rainy season, roads will often become flooded. Take caution when driving in less built-up areas.

Road Classification

There are two main roads: North Bank Road (north of the River Gambia) and South Bank Road (south of the river). Both are surfaced with tarmac and in a reasonably good condition. The main roads close to the coast are better but don’t allow you to get far off the beaten track before they deteriorate.

Road Quality

Major roads in The Gambia are paved, as well as roads in city centres and around resort towns and the airport. Throughout the country, most minor roads are unpaved, and potholes and free-roaming livestock are common. Streetlights and signage are sparse in The Gambia. Driving at night can be dangerous due to the lack of streetlights – ensure your car has fully-functional headlights.

Side Of Road

r

Taxi

Bush taxis: Apart from private taxis, shared taxis (cars known as ‘sept-place’, minibuses or vans known as ‘Gelli-gellis’) are the only form of public transport between towns and villages. They wait at their starting point until full then travel along fixed routes, stopping wherever passengers want to get on or off. They are not allowed to enter some areas of the tourist coastal region or Cape Point. Fares are fixed.

Private taxis: There are two types; neither have meters. Tourist taxis are painted green and are licensed by the Gambian Tourist Authority (GTA) to operate mainly from ranks in the resort areas; each rank has a noticeboard listing tariffs by destination. Local taxis are painted yellow with green stripes and can be hailed in the street; fares are lower and should be agreed in advance. Both types of taxi can travel anywhere in the country.

Urban Travel

Bush taxis (shared cars, minibuses or vans) and private taxis are the only form of public transport in Gambian towns.

Getting Around By Water

There are nearly a dozen points where travellers can cross the River Gambia by boat. Vehicle and passenger ferries between Banjul's commercial port and the town facing it across the river mouth, Barra, runs in each direction every day (from 0700-2100). Tour operators run adventure and fishing trips using small motorboats or large converted pirogues and offer day cruises along the river with lunch or dinner and a live band.

Travel Advice

Before you travel 

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance 

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency. 

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice. 

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This information is for people travelling on a full 'British citizen' passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government's understanding of The Gambia's current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in The Gambia set and enforce entry rules. If you're not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Gambian High Commission in the UK.  

Passport validity requirements 

To enter The Gambia, your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.  

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen. 

Visa requirements 

You do not need a visa to visit The Gambia. You'll get a stamp in your passport that allows you to stay for 28 days when you arrive.  

You can get 2 extensions of 28 days from the Immigration Office in Banjul or the tourist police stations in the Tourism Development Area.

You'll need a residence permit for longer stays. For more information contact the Gambian High Commission in the UK. 

Airport tax 

You must pay an Airport Security Fee when you arrive in and leave the country. The fee is 20 US dollars, which can also be paid in euros, British pounds, or local currency. Visa credit cards are accepted but card machines are often out of service. You can pay the fee at marked kiosks in Banjul International Airport. Children aged 1 or under and passengers transiting are exempt. 

Entry through land borders 

If you are driving across the border in a private vehicle you may be asked to pay a vehicle registration fee. 

Vaccine requirements 

To enter The Gambia, you must have a certificate to prove you've had a yellow fever vaccination if you're coming from a country listed as a transmission risk.

You may need a yellow fever certificate for onward travel to some other countries, due to the risk of yellow fever in The Gambia.

For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro's The Gambia guide.  

Customs rules 

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of The Gambia. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. 

Terrorism  

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.      

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad. 

Terrorism in The Gambia 

Although there is no recent history of terrorism in The Gambia, attacks cannot be ruled out.

Attacks could be indiscriminate including in places visited by foreigners. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Political situation  

Avoid large gatherings and protests in public areas and follow the advice of local authorities. 

Crime 

Be cautious of young men locally known as 'bumsters' who approach tourists, particularly on beaches, offering help or to act as local guides. They may offer to take you on tours into Senegal. It is unlikely they will follow the correct immigration procedures. This could result in you being detained by immigration authorities. They may also ask for money. 

Be polite but firm in refusing unwanted help or attempts at conversation. 

Corruption is present at all levels and you may be asked for bribes. 

Protecting your belongings 

There are reports of passports and other valuables being stolen from hotel rooms. 

Petty theft is a problem in cities and tourist areas. Take care when visiting certain places, especially at night, such as: 

• isolated beaches  
• markets 
• crowded events  
• venues outside the main tourist areas 

Do not take valuables or large sums of money to the beach or display them in public. Take sensible precautions to protect your personal possessions and do not leave valuables in unattended vehicles. Keep a copy of your passport's photo page, and your entry stamp, in a separate place. 

Local travel 

Security checkpoints operate in and around the capital Banjul and are common on all major routes in The Gambia. They are not always well sign-posted. Take care when approaching them and expect your vehicle to be searched if you're stopped by security forces.

Laws and cultural differences  

The Gambia is an Islamic country. Respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions. Make sure your actions do not cause offence, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you intend to visit religious areas. There may be serious penalties for doing something that might not be illegal in the UK but is in The Gambia. 

Ramadan  

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country. During this time, you should be respectful of those who are fasting.  

Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.  

You should also:  

• check opening hours of shops and restaurants  
• be aware that driving may be erratic, particularly when people are trying to get home at dusk  
• be patient and show tolerance 

Personal ID 

As a foreign national, you must carry ID such as a passport. The police will usually accept a printed copy. 

Public offences 

There are severe penalties for any form of sexual offence against a child. There are reports of increased child sex tourism. Report any incidents to the police. 

Detainment 

It is not always possible for the British High Commission to gain early access to detained British nationals in The Gambia. 

Although the law specifies that detainees cannot be held for longer than 72 hours without charge, this is regularly exceeded. 

The death penalty applies for a number of crimes including arson, murder and treason. A pause on the death penalty is in place. 

Illegal drugs and prison sentences 

There is a zero tolerance towards illegal drugs. This includes importing, exporting, or possession of drugs. Do not accept packages on behalf of anyone without knowing the contents. 

Sentences for those found in possession of drugs can be severe, including fines or prison sentences. Cases of entrapment by Gambian authorities are not uncommon. 

LGBT+ travellers 

There is a zero tolerance towards LGBT+ people in The Gambia. Same-sex relationships are illegal and could lead to lengthy prison sentences. 

Gambian law criminalises the act of men dressing as women with a 5-year jail term. 

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers. 

Money 

The Gambia is primarily a cash-based economy. Check with your tour operator or hotel before travelling. An increasing number of hotels and restaurants accept Visa cards but very few accept credit cards. There are not many ATMs outside the tourist area of Senegambia. In other locations, ATMs can be unreliable. 

Transport risks  

Road travel  

If you are planning to drive in The Gambia, see information on driving abroad. 

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in The Gambia for up to 3 months. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence.  

After 3 months you must apply for a Gambian driving licence, you can contact the local police station to ask where the nearest licensing office is. For the application process you need:  

• proof of residency in The Gambia 
• your valid UK driving licence 
• a copy of your passport 

Driving conditions

Driving standards are poor, roads are severely potholed and after dark there is poor road and vehicle lighting.  

There is heavy rainfall from June to October, which can cause localised flooding. Take care if you're travelling in rural areas or on non-paved roads during this period. 

Some local taxis are not roadworthy. 

River travel 

The ferry service from Banjul to Barra is operating but it is often overcrowded and overloaded. Safety measures and maintenance are not up to international standards and ferries lack life saving equipment and rescue services. Consider using the alternative route across the Senegambia Bridge near Farafenni.

There have been several instances of the ferry becoming stranded on sandbanks. If using the ferry, get out of your vehicle quickly after parking to avoid becoming trapped inside your vehicle for the duration of the journey.

Pirogues (wooden dug-out canoes) in The Gambia can be overloaded and safety measures are not up to international standards. They are not recommended for long journeys. If you do travel on one, make sure it has life jackets. 

Extreme weather and natural disasters 

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards. 

Flooding  

Localised flooding can occur during the rainy season, which runs from June to October. 

Before you travel check that: 

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need 
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation 

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant. 

Emergency medical number 

There is no equivalent to the UK's 999 emergency number in The Gambia, it is best to visit in-person to ask for emergency contact details at local stations.  

Contact your insurance company quickly if you're referred to a medical facility for treatment. 

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check the current vaccine recommendations for The Gambia
• see how to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you'll face in The Gambia including:

• yellow fever
• malaria and dengue
• Zika virus
• schistosomiasis

UNAIDS estimated that around 24,000 adults aged 15 or over in Gambia are living with HIV. The prevalence percentage was estimated at around 1.4% of the adult population compared to the prevalence percentage in adults in the UK of around 0.2%. You should use normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. 

Medication 

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries. 

If you bring prescription medication into The Gambia, take a copy of your prescription and keep items in the original packaging. Some prescription and over-the-counter medicines like those containing codeine or diazepam are banned under The Gambia's drugs laws. For more information on the legal status of a specific medicine, check with the Gambian High Commission in the UK before you travel. 

In The Gambia you will need to go to a pharmacy to get most over-the-counter medicines. Only a very limited selection are available at supermarkets or other stores. Not all medicines available in the UK will be available in The Gambia.  

If you require specialist medication, check availability before travel or make arrangements to bring your medication with you. The widely used symbols are a green cross or a green 'Bowl of Hygieia' (a chalice or cup with a snake twined around it).  

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro. 

Healthcare in The Gambia 

Medical facilities in The Gambia are very limited and the cost of medical evacuation can be very high. Private clinics will only treat fee-paying patients. 

FCDO has a list of medical providers in The Gambia where some staff will speak English. 

There is also guidance on healthcare if you're living in The Gambia.  

Travel and mental health 

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro. 

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel. 

Emergency services in The Gambia  

There is no equivalent to the UK's 999 emergency number in The Gambia. Individual police stations and fire stations have their own numbers (these are often mobile numbers, as many do not have a landline). There are no publications listing these numbers so it is best to visit in-person to ask for emergency contact details at local stations.  

Contact your travel provider and insurer 

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do. 

Refunds and changes to travel 

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first. 

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including: 

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider 
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim 

Support from FCDO 

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including: 

• finding English-speaking lawyers and funeral directors in The Gambia  
• dealing with a death in The Gambia 
• being arrested or imprisoned in The Gambia 
• getting help if you're a victim of crime  
• what to do if you're in hospital  
• if you're affected by a crisis, such as a terrorist attack 

Contacting FCDO 

Help abroad  

See how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency. 

Help in the UK  

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.  

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)  

Find out about call charges

Get travel advice updates  

Sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.  

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Vaccinations

Title	Special Precautions
Yellow Fever	Sometimes*
Typhoid	Sometimes
Tetanus	Yes
Rabies	Sometimes
Malaria	Yes
Hepatitis A	Sometimes
Diphtheria	Sometimes

Overview:

Visitors are advised to bring sunscreen, insect repellent and indigestion/diarrhoea medicines; all of these can prove expensive in The Gambia. The government plays a dominant role in health services, but private practices exist in the urban and resort areas. Health insurance is strongly advised. Prescription drugs should be carried in their original containers and with a copy of the prescription.

Note: Some over-the-counter and prescription medicines are banned under The Gambia’s drug laws. These include medicines like those containing diazepam or codeine.

Vaccinations Note:

* A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required from all travellers over nine months of age arriving from endemic or infected areas. Travellers arriving from non-endemic zones should note that vaccination is strongly recommended for travel outside the urban areas, even if an outbreak of the disease has not been reported and they would not normally require a vaccination certificate to enter the country.

Food Drink:

Mains water in the urban and resort areas is safe. Elsewhere, water for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should be boiled or otherwise sterilised. Fresh milk should be boiled if unpasteurised; powdered or tinned milk is preferable. Avoid unpasteurised dairy products. Meat, fish and vegetables should be cooked, and fruit peeled. Avoid fruits and vegetables with bruised or broken skin.

Other Risks:

Diarrhoeal diseases including giardiasis are common. Bilharzia (schistosomiasis) is present; avoid swimming and paddling in stagnant fresh water. Hepatitis E is widespread. Hepatitis B is endemic. Cholera is a risk, and up-to-date advice should be sought on the most suitable precautions. Rabies is present in dogs, bats and other mammals in The Gambia. Visitors who are planning on taking part in outdoor activities are at risk.

Currency Information:

Gambian Dalasi (GMD; symbol D) = 100 bututs. Notes are in denominations of D100, 50, 25, 20, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of D1, and 50, 25, 10, 5 and 1 bututs.

Note: Only 25 and 50 bututs and D1 coins are in circulation. Also, in August 2019, the Central Bank of The Gambia released new dalasi notes which don’t include the portrait of former president Yahya Jammeh. The new notes are D200, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5.

Credit Cards:

While some mid-range and top-end hotels will accept American Express, MasterCard and Visa if arranged at the beginning of the stay, most local businesses only accept payment by cash or traveller's cheques. ATMs are available in large urban areas but are few in number and not always reliable. Due to credit card and bank fraud, caution is advised when using credit cards and ATMs.

ATMs:

ATMs are available in large urban areas and at some banks and some petrol stations in Banjul but are few in number and not always reliable. Due to credit card and bank fraud, caution is advised when using credit cards and ATMs.

Travellers Cheques:

AMEX travellers’ cheques can be changed at some bank branches in Banjul.

Banking Hours:

Times may vary depending on the bank and whether it’s in a city or not. Generally, opening hours are Mon-Fri 0800-1600, Sat 0800-1230. Banks may be closed during the middle of the day for lunch.

Currency Restrictions:

There are no restrictions on the import of local or foreign currency. Exported currency must not exceed the amount imported.

Currency Exchange:

There is a bank/bureau de change (Trust Bank) at the airport. The capital, Banjul, and the nearby towns of Serrekunda, Bakau, Fajara and Kololi have a number of banks where foreign currencies can be exchanged. Exchange bureaux can be found in all the main tourist resorts. Some hotels also offer foreign exchange facilities but tend to charge high commissions. As The Gambia is a cash economy travellers are advised to carry sufficient currency to cover expenses of a planned visit.

Currencies

Code	Symbol
GMD	D

Language

The official language is English. The most widely spoken local languages are Fula, Jola, Mandinka, Pulaar, Soninke, Serer-Sine and Wolof.

Overview:

Public holidays are listed here.

.

List Of Public Holidays

Title	Start Date	To Be Confirmed
New Year's Day	2025-01-01 00:00:00	0
Independence Day	2025-02-18 00:00:00	0
Koriteh (End of Ramadan)	2025-03-31 00:00:00	0
Good Friday	2025-04-18 00:00:00	0
Easter Monday	2025-04-21 00:00:00	0
Labour Day	2025-05-01 00:00:00	0
Tabaski (Feast of Sacrifice)	2025-06-07 00:00:00	0
Revolution Day	2025-07-22 00:00:00	0
Assumption	2025-08-15 00:00:00	0
Milad un Nabi (Birth of the Prophet Muhammad)	2025-09-05 00:00:00	0
Christmas Day	2025-12-25 00:00:00	0

Note:

Muslim festivals are timed according to local sightings of various phases of the moon and the dates given below are approximations. During the lunar month of Ramadan that precedes Koriteh (End of Ramadan), Muslims fast during the day and feast at night and normal business patterns may be interrupted. Some disruption may continue into Koriteh itself. Koriteh and Tabaski (Feast of Sacrifice) may last up to several days, depending on the region.

Overview:

The following goods may be imported into The Gambia by travellers over 18 without incurring customs duty:

.

Telephone:

There are telecentres in the major towns but these are under threat from mobile phones. The connection is generally good in main urban centres.

Mobile Telephone:

Roaming agreements exist with most international mobile phone companies. Coverage is good around Banjul and most other towns, but patchy in remote rural areas.

Internet:

Email can be accessed in internet cafes in major towns, where the connection is generally reliable.

Post

The postal service can be slow and unreliable; letters are generally ok but parcels and larger items frequently get lost. The main post office is on Russell Street, Banjul.

Post Office Hours:

Hours may vary but generally, Mon-Thu 0800-1215 and 1400-1600, Fri 0830-1215 and 1430-1600, Sat 0830-1200.

Media:

State-run Gambia Radio and Television Service (GRTS) broadcasts tightly-controlled news that is heavily pro-government. Private media are severely restricted, with radio stations and newspapers having to pay large licence fees. The government operates the only national television station, Gambia Television; Premium TV Network and Gam TV are private satellite channels. QTV is The Gambia’s first private television station. Radio Gambia transmits programmes in English and local languages.

A media bill passed in March 2002 was considered a threat to press freedom. The law set up a commission whose powers range from issuing licences to jailing journalists. In 2004, further legislation was introduced allowing for jail terms for journalists found guilty of libel or sedition. The assassination in 2004 of Deyda Hydara, an editor at The Point newspaper opposed to President Jammeh and one of the press law’s leading critics, further raised the stakes. Daily Observer and The Point are daily newspapers in English. Foroyaa and The Standard are other English publications that report on culture, politics and news.

Kiang West National Park: Marvel at the mangrove creeks

Trek through this stunning national park, the most diverse ecosystem in Gambia, to see more flora and fauna than anywhere else in the country. Straddling the impressive Gambia River, this region boasts extensive mangrove creeks where West African Manatee and Nile and Dwarf Crocodiles reside. Bird lovers will be thoroughly at home, with around 250 bird species flocking the trees. Monkeys are the star attraction, but you might also catch sight of leopards, warthogs, hyena species and much more.

Tanbi Wetlands: Go birdwatching

Birdwatching is the most popular pastime for visitors to Gambia. Take a boat into the mangrove creeks of the Tanbi Wetlands around the mouth of the River Gambia and drift along under canopies of forested wilderness, spotting lagoons, mudflats and tidal creeks. Often visitors will see locals collecting oysters from small boats. Head south to the Tanji Reserve or travel up-country to the world-renowned Bao Bolong Wetland Reserve to spot some of the country's many resident and migrant species.

African music: Dance the night away

The Senegambia Strip in Kokoli is the place to be as the sun sets. Having grown from a row of shacks, it now boasts a variety of fantastic bars, restaurants and live music venues. A number of resorts host dance troupes and live bands for guest entertainments. For real kicks, head to a live session from one of Gambia's many excellent local bands, or a concert featuring stars from neighbouring Senegal, home of Youssou N'Dour, Baaba Maal and many other West African greats.

Microlights: Get a bird’s-eye view of the country

Soar over the fields, villages, creeks and beaches of Gambia by going up in a microlight. Short airborne tours and longer trips can be arranged from the microlight base at the airport. There are various landing spots up and down the country, so you may be able to stop at a few key tourist sites.

Gambian rhythm: Do a little dance

Fancy moving your feet to the local beat? Then book a few lessons with a dance teacher, a master of the kora (Gambia's national instrument) or with a drumming instructor who will be able to help you buy a djembé (drum) from a local craftsman.

River Gambia National Park: Mess about on the river

Take a long-distance boat trip on the River Gambia, the dominant feature of the country. The River Gambia National Park is the most beautiful stretch of riverine vegetation where you can spot monkeys leaping through the foliage, pelicans feasting on fish and hippos relaxing in this peaceful waterway. As you drift up the river, lush rainforests will turn into Savannah and mangrove swamps emerge. A key spot to visit, is the Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Camp (CRC), which looks after and fosters orphaned chimps.

National Museum of Albreda: Learn about the slave trade

Upriver from Banjul, explore Gambian colonial history by visiting the exhibition of the slave trade at Albreda and Jufureh – twin villages that were made famous by Alex Haley's novel Roots. The museum features exhibitions detailing human captives and a replica slave ship – then cross to Kunta Kinteh Island (formerly called James Island), mid-river, to see its ruined fort.

Abuko Nature Reserve: Explore tropical forests

Walk through the tropical forests of the Abuko Nature Reserve, where crocodiles, monkeys, forest antelope and reptiles thrive. There are around 50 types of tropical trees in this area and 290 bird species. Among these birds are the Willow Warbler, Pied Kingfisher and Violet Turacoes. Get a good look at them while trekking the nature trail, a couple hours’ walk through the jungles and savanna.

Banjul: The capital of The Gambia

In the capital, visit the National Museum, which has some interesting ethnographic displays, then admire the colonial architecture in the area near July 22 Square and climb to the top of Arch 22 for great views over the city. Shop in Albert Market, the city’s lively open-air bazaar, for an illuminating glimpse of daily life. Peruse its many stalls for a selection of colourful printed fabrics, carved wooden masks and local produce.

Katchikali Crocodile Pool: Mind your fingers

Meet a friendly croc at this ancient site, sacred to the Mandinka tribe, in the coastal village of Bakau. The crocodiles, though wild, are well fed and docile. Fertility rites are sometimes held here.

Makasutu Culture Forest: Take a cultural tour

Join a cultural tour of this beautiful forest park, learning about local medicinal plants and woodland fauna, then take a boat trip by dugout canoe and enjoy a spirited display of local-style music and dance in this award-winning eco-attraction. During your walk, look out for massive termite mounds, which can reach a staggering two metres.

Wassu stone circles: Solve a mystery

In Eastern Gambia, catch sight of the fascinating circles of standing stones around Wassu, the most ancient human-made structures in the country and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The origin of these megalithic circles, which stand between 1m (3.2ft) and 2.5m (8.2ft) tall, is shrouded in mystery but they are thought to mark the prehistoric burial grounds of a society long-since vanished.

Bask on the beach

Gunjur and Kartong are southern Gambia's most pristine beaches and home to a number of excellent eco-retreats. Alternatively visit Kotu, the best beach along Gambia's main resort strip. Be wary, though: the seas can get a little rough.

Borreh: Watch a wrestling match

Gambia’s national sport, borreh (wrestling) was in danger of slipping into the history books until it was revived under President Jammeh. The sport now features in most national events and festivals. Similar to Greco-Roman wrestling, contests, played out against a theatrical backdrop, are ferocious and frequently bloody.

Overview

Hunt down souvenirs and local handicrafts in the various bengdulas (craft markets), dotted around Banjul and the resort areas. Banjul's Albert Market and the sprawling commercial heart of the busy town of Serrekunda are particularly colourful places to browse. Popular purchases include colourful batik wall hangings, handmade clothing, woodcarvings, bead jewellery and traditional djembé drums. Beaded belts and ladies' handbags are also popular, as are books and albums made from recycled paper and West African handicrafts using straw, beads, leather, cloth or metal. Fajara, Kololi, Serrekunda and Brikama have a few shops and market stalls which supply African tribal curios such as masks and textiles.

Opening Hours

Hours may vary but generally, Mon-Thu 0900-1700, Fri 0900-1230, Sat 0900-1300. Some shops may stay open later in tourist areas.

Overview

The Gambia has a thriving delicious local cuisine with lots of fresh produce to try and is available at restaurants and hotels. Some hotels and restaurants organise Gambian-style barbecue-buffet nights featuring freshly grilled local fish and chicken, spicy stews and rice dishes. International food is also available at most tourist hotels and restaurants.

Regional Specialities

Tipping

Tips are discretionary. A 10% service charge is sometimes included in hotel and restaurant bills.

Drinking Age

18 but not strictly adhered to as so few people consume alcohol.

Hotels

By West African standards, The Gambia has a fairly developed, growing tourist industry. The mainstay are large package-oriented resorts although smaller boutique hotels, are also emerging. The most popular hotels are located in the string of low-key, low-rise beach resorts near Banjul. Standards tend to be modest, but the high-end places have attractive swimming pools, bars, restaurants, shops, sporting facilities, spacious gardens and the option of a room with air conditioning.

Grading: There is no official accommodation grading system. Tour operators classify properties according to their own criteria.

Camping Caravaning

The Gambia has no public campsites, but a few of the lodges in the suburban and rural areas allow visitors to pitch a tent in their grounds for reasonable rates. Many have shower and toilet facilities, activities and electricity.

Other

History

Before the arrival of the Europeans in the 15th century, the nation’s history was preserved in oral traditions. Ancient stone circles, known as the Wassu stone circles, are evidence of an early population; however, not much is known of it.

According to thecommonwealth.org, the area now known as The Gambia was part of the Ghana Empire ruled by the Serahuli between the 5th and 8th centuries. It later became part of the Mali Empire under the Susu and Mandinka in the 13th century, which declined by the 16th century.

In the 15th century, Europeans started to explore the river and coast area – the River Gambia soon became a busy trading zone for gold and slaves. During the colonial period, several European powers contested ownership of the river with Britain eventually prevailing, and The Gambia became a British Protectorate in the early 1820s, surrounded by French-ruled Senegal.

The drive for Gambian independence gained momentum after World War 2 and in 1961 the first universal franchise election was held, with Dawda Jawara winning. The Gambia became the last of Britain’s West African colonies to attain full independence, mainly because it was so small and poor that doubts surfaced about its economic viability. A merger with Senegal was suggested but rejected when the issue of how to share power could not be resolved. Eventually, in 1965 The Gambia achieved independence and Jawara became the country’s first Prime Minister before assuming the role of President when the country became a republic in 1970 as a member of the Commonwealth.

A period of hope and relative prosperity matched by an era of political stability followed and with elections conducted every five years, The Gambia is one of the oldest multi-party democracies in Africa. However, dissatisfaction within the military and a failed coup in 1981 led to the establishment of the Senegambia Confederation in 1982, which aimed to unify the political, economic and defence structure of the two countries. The confederation lasted until 1989 when the project was aborted.

Nonetheless, close relations have remained between the two since the divorce. A bloodless coup in 1994 caught everyone by surprise but was welcomed by the majority of the population and Yahya Jammeh, a military man, assumed control and promptly banned political activity. In response, Western governments withdrew support for the country and the tourist industry collapsed, only recovering when Jammeh called elections in 1996, which he won.

Since the turn of the century, The Gambia has had a period of relatively high economic growth backed by a tourist boom and apparent stability. The country retains strong connections with Britain and is one of the few parts of West Africa where English, rather than French, is the official language. Under the surface, however, Jammeh became increasingly repressive and was involved in human rights violations. His time in office saw the oppression of LGBTQ+ people, anti-government journalists and opposition parties.

In December 2016, Adama Barrow won the democratic election; however, Jammeh refused to concede and, after being threatened by the African Union, fled to Equatorial Guinea in January 2017. In 2018, The Gambia officially rejoined the Commonwealth after the nation announced its exit in 2013.

Did you know?

• Contemporary Gambian music fuses Western sounds with Sabar, the traditional drumming and dancing of the Wolof and Serer peoples.

• The River Gambia is navigable deep into the continent, which made it a frequently-used site for the slave trade. Once slave trading was declared illegal in the 19th century the river became a strategic factor in its end.

• The Gambia is the smallest country on mainland Africa.

Religion

Over 90% Muslim, with the remainder holding either Christian or animist beliefs.

Social Conventions

Handshaking is a common form of greeting; Salaam aleikum (Peace be upon you) is the traditional greeting. Naka nga def (Wolof for: How are you?) is widely used on the coast; Kori tanante (Mandinka for: How are you?) is widely used inland. Gambians are extremely friendly and welcoming, and, in general, visitors should not be afraid to accept their hospitality.

You should exercise common sense in their dealings with the persistent would-be guides, known locally as bumsters, who operate in some tourist areas. Many Gambians are Muslim, and their religious customs and beliefs should be respected by guests; however, most understand western customs and the English language. Visitors should remember that the right hand, not the left, must be used for the giving or receiving of food or objects.

Casual wear is suitable, although beachwear should only be worn on the beach or at the poolside. Only the most exclusive dining rooms encourage guests to dress up for dinner. Traditional culture in music, dancing and craftsmanship flourishes in the many villages in up-country Gambia. Travellers are advised not to photograph Banjul airport or military bases, and to ask the permission of any locals if wishing to photograph them and their village.

Best Time To Visit:

The Gambia lies in a region that arguably has the most agreeable climate in West Africa; the weather is subtropical, with distinct dry and rainy seasons. Temperatures highs tend to average 29°C (84°F) – 34°C (93°F).

From mid-November to early June, coastal areas are usually dry, while the rainy season lasts from mid to late June to October. Inland, the cool season is shorter, and daytime temperatures are very high between March and June. Sunny periods occur on most days, even during the rainy season, when showers can be short and spectacular. Most charter flights run from November to May, coinciding with the time of year when the temperature is pleasant and humidity is low.

November is The Gambia’s least rainy month, offering a less humid and sunny holiday. Christmas and Easter are the two busiest travel periods, while the shoulder seasons represent the best times to arrive if you wish to escape the crowds. June to August, although rainy, offer a great alternative and lush green vegetation. Bird watchers will revel in this period, as colourful species in their breeding plumage emerge.

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Required Clothing

Lightweight or tropical for most of the year, with rainwear for the rainy season.

Dialing Code:

+220

Area(sq km):

11,295

Population:

2.416.668

Population Density(per sq km):

202

Population Year:

2020

EU Member:

No

Main emergency number

16