The Gambia, a small country in West Africa, is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. Home to iconic landmarks like the Kunta Kinteh Island, Abuko Nature Reserve, and the vibrant capital Banjul, The Gambia offers a unique blend of historical sites and natural beauty. The country's geography is dominated by the Gambia River, with mangrove swamps and sandy beaches along its coast.

Gambian culture is a vibrant mix of ethnic groups, reflected in its colorful markets, traditional music, and cuisine featuring dishes like domoda (peanut stew) and benachin (jollof rice). Known for its birdwatching opportunities, as "The Smiling Coast of Africa," and for its role in Alex Haley's "Roots," The Gambia presents a captivating destination that combines cultural richness with stunning river and coastal landscapes.

Documents

Driving

Currency

Legal

Safety

Flights

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into The Gambia.
Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date from The Gambia.

Visa Requirements

Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from several nations, including most Commonwealth countries, ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) countries, and the EU, can enter The Gambia with a valid passport and stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa.
Visa-required countries: Travelers from nations not on the visa-exempt list must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering The Gambia, either through an embassy or upon arrival (subject to approval).

Special Entry Provisions

Holders of valid, multiple-entry Schengen visas (previously used in a Schengen state) can enter The Gambia without an additional visa.
Citizens with valid, multiple-entry US or UK visas (previously used in the issuing country) can enter without a Gambian visa.
Holders of valid residence permits from Schengen states, the US, or the UK can enter without a visa.

ID Card Entry

No countries are permitted to enter The Gambia using only a national ID card. A passport is mandatory for all travelers.

Visa Types

Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for 90 days within 180 days. Can be single, double, or multiple entry, with validity up to 3 years.
Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 90 days. Valid for one year with a 90-day stay period, allowing application for a residence permit.

Important Links

Official The Gambia e-Visa application portal: https://www.evisa.gov.gm/
Visa regime information: https://www.mia.gov.gm/visa-information
The Gambia Immigration Services: https://www.immigration.gov.gm/

Additional Considerations

Length of stay: Visa-free stays are typically limited to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Purpose of visit: Different rules apply for work, study, or long-term stays; contact the nearest Gambian embassy or high commission.
COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements (e.g., vaccination certificates or testing) via the Ministry of Health.

Driving in The Gambia

Current Toll Roads

As of 2025, The Gambia has no official toll roads. Major routes like the Banjul-Serekunda road are publicly funded, but tolls may be introduced on key routes in the future due to infrastructure needs.

Toll Rates and Payment

Toll rates: Not applicable yet; monitor updates from The Gambia Road Authority.
Payment Methods:
- Cash: Gambian Dalasi (GMD) would be accepted if tolls are introduced.
- Credit/Debit Cards: Unlikely to be accepted initially; cash is king.
- Electronic Toll Collection: No system currently exists.

Driving in The Gambia

Drive on the right side of the road.
Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants, though enforcement is limited.
Speed limits:
- Urban areas: 40 km/h
- Rural roads: 80 km/h
- Highways: 110 km/h
Road conditions: Poor outside major cities like Banjul and Serekunda; unpaved, damaged, and unlit roads are common, especially during the rainy season (June to October).
International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license for stays up to 3 months; longer stays require a Gambian driver’s license.

Important Considerations

Vignette System: The Gambia has no vignette system, but road taxes or checkpoints may apply—check locally.
Road Safety: Roads are hazardous due to poor maintenance, aggressive drivers, livestock, and pedestrians. Avoid night driving outside urban areas.
GPS and Maps: GPS is unreliable in rural areas; keep an updated physical map and a reliable communication device.
Emergency Number: Dial 117 for police or 116 for ambulance (national emergency number 112 also works, but service may be limited).

Useful Links

The Gambia Road Authority: https://www.mot.gov.gm/roads (Ministry of Transport, Works and Infrastructure).
Ministry of Infrastructure: https://www.infrastructure.gov.gm/
E-The Gambia Services Portal: https://www.gov.gm/

The Gambia Currency

The official currency of The Gambia is the Gambian Dalasi (GMD).

Key Information

Banknotes: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 GMD
Coins: 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 bututs; 1 GMD
Symbol: D

Currency Exchange

Exchange services available at banks, Banjul International Airport, and major hotels in Banjul and Serekunda.
ATMs are limited but available in major cities for direct GMD withdrawals (major UK, US, and Euro cards may be accepted).

Payment Methods

Cash is preferred, especially outside urban areas.
Credit/debit cards are rarely accepted, limited to major hotels and some businesses in Banjul and Serekunda.

Travel Tips

Inform your bank of travel plans, though card use may be unreliable.
Carry sufficient cash for small purchases and rural areas.
Check for currency conversion fees when exchanging or using cards.
For current exchange rates, visit the Central Bank of The Gambia website: https://www.cbg.gm/exchange-rates

Legal Essentials for Traveling in The Gambia

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in The Gambia, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including lengthy prison sentences. Even small quantities can lead to criminal charges.
Alcohol & Smoking:
- Public intoxication is frowned upon and may result in fines.
- Smoking banned in indoor public spaces and on public transport.
Cultural Sensitivities: Avoid discussing sensitive political or religious issues, especially related to the government or regional tensions.
LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are illegal, with penalties up to 14 years in prison. 2SLGBTQI+ travelers should carefully consider the risks of traveling to The Gambia.
Photography: Restricted near government buildings, military sites, or sensitive installations. Always ask permission for portraits of locals.

Duty-Free Limits

Alcohol: 1L spirits | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
Cash: Declare amounts over $10,000 USD (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

Narcotics, weapons, endangered species products.
Counterfeit goods (may face fines or confiscation).

Luggage Issues

Report lost/damaged luggage within 7 days at the airport via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR).

Complaints

Submit grievances to The Gambia Tourism Office or local police stations.

Beach Access

Public beaches must allow free access within 2.5 meters of the shoreline. Wheelchair access is legally mandated on major beaches like those in Bakau and Kotu.

Key Resources

The Gambia Tourism Agency: https://www.visitthegambia.gm/tourist-rights (Tourist rights & complaints).

Gambia Travel Safety

The Gambia is generally safe for travellers, with low crime rates and a reputation for hospitality. However, travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in The Gambia.

Safety Overview

Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) is rare but possible in crowded areas like markets or tourist sites in Banjul and Serekunda. Violent crime against tourists is extremely uncommon.
Solo/Female Travelers: The Gambia is considered safe, with locals often going out of their way to assist visitors. Avoid isolated areas at night.

Road Safety

Driving can be challenging due to narrow roads, aggressive drivers, and poor rural road conditions.
Avoid night driving outside urban areas due to limited lighting and road hazards.
Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory, though enforcement is limited.

Health Risks

Food/Water Safety:
- Avoid tap water; drink bottled or purified water.
- Practice safe eating habits to prevent travelers’ diarrhea.
Vaccinations:
- Recommended: Hepatitis A, typhoid, polio, hepatitis B, rabies (for long-term stays), and COVID-19.
- Yellow Fever: Required only if arriving from a risk country.
Insect-Borne Diseases: Use insect repellent to guard against malaria, dengue, and yellow fever.
Altitude Sickness: Minimal risk, as no areas exceed 53 meters (no significant elevation).

Medical Facilities

Hospitals: Private facilities like the Medical Research Council Unit in Fajara offer higher standards. Rural areas often lack advanced care.
Pharmacies: Available in cities; stock essential medications, but supplies can be limited.
Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation.

Emergency Contacts

General Emergency: 112 (works for police, ambulance, and fire).
Police: 117 | Ambulance: 116 | Fire: 118.
Tourist Police (Banjul): +220 422 8155.