Landmarks and scenery of The Gambia
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Travel Guide · Africa

The Gambia

The smiling coast of Africa — Atlantic beaches, river birdlife, and the warmest welcome in West Africa.

Entry Requirements

Visa requirements for The Gambia depend on which passport you hold. Check the Traveller visa tool to see whether your passport needs a visa and, if so, how long you can stay.

Check if you need a visa for The Gambia

Emergency Numbers

Police
117
Ambulance
116
Fire
118

Currency

Name
Gambian Dalasi
Code
GMD
Symbol
D

USD, EUR and GBP accepted at hotels. ATMs in Banjul and tourist areas.

Power Outlets

Outlet type
Type G
Voltage
230V
Frequency
50Hz

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) — no daylight saving

Best Time to Visit

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

The dry season November to March is the cooler, drier window and prime birding season.

Major Airports

  • BJL

    Banjul International Airport

    Banjul · only international airport

Tipping Customs

Restaurants10%
GuidesD500–1000 per day

Dress Code

What "modest dress" usually means

Shoulders and knees covered, nothing tight or sheer, no low-cut tops, no visible underwear or midriff. Loose, breathable fabrics work best in warm climates. In most places this is a social expectation rather than a legal rule — the country-specific notes below add any extras (headscarves at mosques, long trousers in temples, etc.).

  • Beachwear fine on resort beaches; cover up in villages and towns
  • The country is predominantly Muslim — modest dress in rural areas

Social Etiquette

  • English is the official language; Mandinka, Fula and Wolof are widely spoken
  • Haggling is expected in markets; a tourist tax applies to all beach hotels
  • 'Bumsters' (local men offering guide services on tourist beaches) can be persistent — a polite firm 'no thank you' usually works

Local Laws

Laws change. Verify current rules with your country's official travel advisory before departure.

  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate required
  • Photography of government, military, airports and bridges prohibited
  • Homosexuality is criminalised — travellers should be discreet

Common Phrases

EnglishLocalPronunciation
Hello (Mandinka)Salaam aleikumsah-LAHM a-LAY-koom
Thank you (Wolof)Jërëjëfjeh-reh-JEF

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