Gambia Travel Information

The Gambia, a small West African country, is known for its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and diverse wildlife. Despite its size, the country offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are ten things to do in Gambia that you won't want to miss:

1. Visit the Kachikally Crocodile Pool

The Kachikally Crocodile Pool in Bakau is a sacred site where visitors can see and even touch live crocodiles.

2. Experience the Tanji Fish Market

The Tanji Fish Market is a bustling spot where fishermen bring in their daily catch, and locals gather to buy and sell seafood.

3. Take a River Cruise

A river cruise along the Gambia River is a great way to see the country's natural beauty and wildlife, including hippos, monkeys, and birds.

4. Visit the Abuko Nature Reserve

The Abuko Nature Reserve is a protected area of forest and wetlands that is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, hyenas, and crocodiles.

5. Explore Kunta Kinteh Island

Kunta Kinteh Island, formerly known as James Island, was a major center of the transatlantic slave trade. Visitors can tour the island and learn about its history.

6. Relax on the Beach

The Gambia has many beautiful beaches, including Kololi Beach, which is known for its white sand and clear water.

7. Visit the National Museum

The National Museum in Banjul houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase Gambia's rich cultural history.

8. Take a Cooking Class

Gambian cuisine is known for its spicy flavors and diverse ingredients. Taking a cooking class is a great way to learn about the local cuisine and culture.

9. Attend a Cultural Festival

The Gambia has many cultural festivals throughout the year, including the Roots Homecoming Festival, which celebrates the country's African heritage.

10. Shop at the Local Markets

Gambia has many vibrant markets where visitors can buy local crafts, textiles, and other goods. The Serrekunda Market is one of the largest and most popular.

The Gambia has a tropical climate with two main seasons: a rainy season from June to October, and a dry season from November to May. Here's what you need to know about the climate and the best time to visit:

Climate

During the rainy season, the country receives a lot of rainfall, which can cause flooding in some areas. Temperatures during this season range from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F) and the humidity is high. The dry season is cooler and less humid, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 33°C (64°F to 91°F).

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Gambia is during the dry season, from November to May. The weather is pleasant, with cooler temperatures and lower humidity. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. If you don't mind the rain, the wet season can be a good time to visit, as the country is lush and green, and there are fewer tourists. However, some roads may be impassable during this season, and some activities may be limited.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

Hotels

There are many hotels in Gambia ranging from budget to luxury options. Many hotels are located in popular tourist areas such as Banjul, Kololi, and Kotu. Some hotels offer all-inclusive packages with meals, drinks, and activities included.

Guest Houses

Guest houses in Gambia are often smaller and more affordable than hotels, and are a good option for budget travelers. They offer basic facilities such as a private room and shared bathroom, and are often run by locals.

Lodges

Lodges in Gambia are typically located in rural areas and offer a more immersive experience of the country's natural beauty. They often have fewer amenities than hotels, but provide a more secluded and tranquil environment.

Villas and Apartments

For travelers who want more space and independence, there are villas and apartments available for rent. These are often self-catering, and can be a good option for families or larger groups.

Campsites

For budget travelers or those who want to experience the outdoors, there are campsites available in Gambia. Some are basic and offer few amenities, while others have more facilities and activities.

Taxis

Taxis are widely available in Gambia and are a convenient way to get around. They are relatively inexpensive and can be found in most towns and cities. However, be sure to negotiate the fare before getting in the taxi to avoid any surprises.

Buses

Buses are a cheaper option for getting around Gambia, but they can be crowded and uncomfortable. There are both private and government-run buses available, and routes cover most of the country.

Car Rental

For those who prefer more independence and flexibility, car rental is an option in Gambia. However, driving in the country can be challenging due to poor road conditions and aggressive drivers. Be sure to obtain an international driving permit before traveling to Gambia.

Motorcycles

Motorcycles, or "bikes" as they are known locally, are a popular way to get around in Gambia. They are inexpensive and provide a more adventurous way to explore the country. However, they can be dangerous, so make sure to wear a helmet and drive cautiously.

Ferries

There are several ferries that connect different parts of Gambia, including the capital city of Banjul. Ferries can be a slower but more scenic way to travel, and are often used by locals.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.