Gambia holidays

Sunworshippers: From bustling Kololi Beach and its calm waters to the secluded, unspoilt sands of Bijilo, you’ll find plenty of places to relax and soak up the tropical sunshine.

Birdwatchers: Gambia is a birdwatcher’s paradise! With more than 500 species, check out Tanji Bird Reserve for the best sightings or hop in a canoe and sail upstream at dawn. For the greatest chance of seeing migratory birds, head here between November and April.

Shopping: You can pick up almost anything at Gambia’s traditional markets, whether you’re after some authentic drums, handmade clothes or a wood carving. At the heart of Banjul, is where you’ll find Albert Market. As its biggest, you’ll find all sorts across its stalls, but the great-smelling street food is bound to lure you in first. If it’s souvenirs you’re after, then don’t pass up the chance to visit Senegambia Craft Market.

Language: English is the official language, but there are at least 10 other languages. Most locals are bilingual, speaking English as well as their own tribal tongue.

Currency: The currency used  is the Gambia Dalasi (GMD).

Local time: There is no time difference between Gambia and GMT/UK time.

Fly to: Banjul International Airport ( BJL), which is around 50 minutes transfer time or less from Banjul Beach, Bijilo, Brufut Heights, Kololi Beach and Kotu Beach.

Flight time from the UK: Around 6 hours.

Tourist information:  Further tourist information can be found at the official website for tourism in Gambia.

Visa / health: Before you travel, check the latest advice from The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office.

By minivan: Often shared with other passengers or hired by large groups, these vans are a great way to hop from one resort to the next.  

By taxi: It’s likely you’ll find tourist taxis near your hotel, in the city and along the coast. Often pricier than bush taxis, these vehicles are fully insured and regulated by the GTA (Gambia Tourism Authority. There should be a price board on display, so the fare is fixed before you set off.

By ‘bush taxi’: You can’t miss these green and yellow cars. Popular with the locals (and cheap), they’re a great way to zip around, but make sure you check the price before you get in.

Kartong Festival: Early in February, this colourful celebration brings the sleepy village of Kartong to life; it’s a vibrant festival paying tribute to Gambian music, arts and culture.

Roots Festival: Every other May, this lively event comes to the quiet fishing village of Albreda. Inspired by historian Alex Haley’s book Roots, it explores the country’s history and its role in the transatlantic slave trade.

The Fanal Parade: Held between Christmas and New Year, watch as brightly lit bamboo boats covered in white paper are carried through the streets. Accompanied by music, this end-of-year celebration has a great atmosphere.

National Independence Day of The Gambia: Each year on 18th February, Gambia celebrates its independence from Great Britain. Taking place in McCarthy square in Banjul, expect a parade of army, civil servants and schoolchildren.

Gambia passport requirements state that British citizens must hold a full UK passport, which is valid for at least the duration of their stay.

Do I need a visa?

If you’re taking Gambia holidays for less than 28 days, you do not need a visa. On arrival, your passport will be stamped, stating the date by which you must leave. If you intend to stay any longer, you’ll need to apply for an extension. 

For up-to-date advice on entry requirements please visit the FCDO website.

Should I get travel health insurance?

You should have comprehensive travel health insurance whenever you go abroad. It protects you against the financial cost of unexpected events, such as illness and accidents. With a good policy behind you, the cost of things like medicines, treatment and even returning to the UK can be covered. However, it’s worth reading through your documents to check what is and isn’t included, especially if you’re planning on doing any extreme sports such as scuba diving.

 For up-to-date advice on travelling to Gambia, please visit the FCDO website.

Any other tips?

• While the locals are very friendly, it’s always worth asking permission if you want to take a photograph of someone.
• The markets can be overwhelming to begin with, and as a tourist, you’re likely to attract some attention. Don’t be afraid to say ‘no’ to anyone trying to sell you something you don’t want, or to the locals offering their services as guides. Be polite, but firm.
• Don’t use tap water for anything other than washing. Stick to bottled water and avoid ice cubes, salads and fruits which  may have been washed under the tap.