Gambia Travel Advice
The Gambia, often referred to simply as Gambia, is the smallest country on mainland Africa. It is a long, narrow nation that follows the course of the Gambia River and is bordered by Senegal on all sides except for its short Atlantic coastline.
Gambia sees over 100,000 tourists each year the majority of which, according to official statistics, come from the United Kingdom.
The country experiences a tropical climate, with a wet season from June to October and a dry season from November to May. Temperatures are warm year-round, with the rainy season bringing more humidity and heavy rainfall.
The Gambia has a population of around 2.5 million people. The majority of the population lives in rural areas, although there is significant urbanization around the capital, Banjul, and the larger city of Serekunda. The Gambia is ethnically diverse, with the Mandinka being the largest ethnic group, followed by the Fula, Wolof, and Jola groups, among others. The country is culturally rich, with vibrant traditions in music, dance, and storytelling.
The Gambia's economy is primarily based on agriculture, with groundnuts (peanuts) being the most significant cash crop. Other important crops include rice, millet, and maize. Tourism plays a major role in the economy, particularly along the coastal regions. The country attracts visitors for its beautiful beaches, wildlife reserves, and eco-tourism opportunities, such as birdwatching.
Visiting Gambia FAQsHire a bodyguard in Gambia
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Key Information for Gambia
Emergency Services
Police emergency: 117
Medical emergency: 116
Fire Service: 118
Country Overview
Capital City: Banjul
Official State Language(s): English & local languages, Wolof & Mandinka
Official State Religion(s): Islam (Sunni)
State Currency: Gambian Dalasi (GMD)
Current Capital Time:
How safe is Gambia?
The security situation in the Gambia has evolved significantly in recent years.
While the country has seen political stabilization since the end of Yahya Jammeh’s 22-year autocratic rule in 2017, security concerns have been rising due to an uptick in crime, banditry, and local conflicts. Here’s a deeper look at the current security dynamics in the country:
Rising Crime Rates:
The crime rate in The Gambia, particularly in urban centers like Banjul, has been rising steadily. Armed robbery, burglaries, and banditry have become more common. Criminal activities are primarily driven by high unemployment rates and economic challenges, with nearly 48% of the population living below the poverty line. The rise in violent crimes such as murder and armed attacks on wealthy business owners has also been noted.
Efforts like Operation Zero Crime, initiated by law enforcement, aim to increase police patrols and crack down on criminal hotspots, particularly in the Greater Banjul Area and West Coast Region. However, these initiatives are often constrained by underfunded and under-equipped police forces, limiting their reach and effectiveness. The absence of swift legal consequences for criminals, along with ineffective prosecution, has further emboldened offenders, creating a sense of impunity.
Homosexuality is illegal in the Gambia and you should exercise extreme caution during your visit. There have been isolated incidents of foreign nationals being detained by the police in relation to homosexuality. There has also been a recent increase in homophobic violence across the country.
Local Conflicts and Banditry:
The Gambia also faces local conflicts, particularly in areas bordering Senegal's Casamance region. The ECOMIG (Economic Community of West African States Mission in The Gambia) forces have faced resistance, especially in Foni, a region that has experienced tensions related to the presence of rebels and illegal activities such as timber trafficking. Clashes with rebel groups from the Movement of Democratic Forces of Casamance (MFDC) in Senegal have resulted in violence and the displacement of thousands of Gambian citizens.
Local conflicts have also erupted over land disputes and community tensions, as seen in the clashes between the Manduar-Mandinka and Manduar-Touba communities in the West Coast region. These localized disputes have required police intervention but have highlighted the fragility of peace in certain regions.
Political Stability and Challenges:
Since the democratic transition that brought Adama Barrow to power, The Gambia has been praised for improvements in freedom of speech and press freedoms. Media outlets can now report more freely, and many exiled Gambians have returned. Despite these gains, Barrow’s government has struggled with rising insecurity and dissatisfaction with its handling of crime. In a national survey conducted by the Center for Policy, Research and Strategic Studies (CEPRASS), 76% of respondents indicated that crime rates had increased since Barrow's election.
The re-election of Barrow in 2021 means his government will continue to face the challenge of balancing democratic reforms with the urgent need to address economic and security concerns. Discontent is growing due to the perception that the government is failing to ensure law and order, and the unchecked rise in crime threatens to destabilize the progress made since the 2017 democratic transition.
Impact on Tourism and Economy:
The rise in crime and insecurity has significant implications for The Gambia’s economy, particularly its tourism sector, which is one of the country's main sources of income. Increased reports of crime against tourists, including theft, pickpocketing, and occasional violent incidents, have raised concerns about the safety of travelers. Although police patrols are prioritized in tourist areas, the growing insecurity could deter international visitors, further exacerbating the country’s economic challenges.
Travelers should adhere to local laws and customs, as Gambia is a predominantly Islamic country with strict regulations on behavior, public displays of affection, and alcohol consumption. Public displays of affection, especially near religious sites, and sexual activity outside of marriage may lead to legal consequences. It’s important to remain respectful of cultural norms, particularly in more conservative areas. For more information on Islamic culture, please see: Guide to Islamic culture.
Visiting Gambia FAQsHealth Emergencies in Gambia
In the event of a health emergency in The Gambia, it's important to be aware of the country's healthcare infrastructure and challenges. Here’s an overview of the key factors to consider regarding health emergencies:
Healthcare Infrastructure:
Public Healthcare: The Gambia’s healthcare system faces significant challenges. Public hospitals and clinics, especially outside the capital Banjul, often lack essential medical supplies, equipment, and trained staff. The quality of care in public facilities may not meet international standards, particularly in rural areas.
Private Healthcare: Private clinics in Banjul and other major urban areas, such as Africmed Clinic and Medicare Clinic, tend to offer better healthcare services than public facilities. However, private care can be expensive and payment is usually required upfront. These facilities are better equipped to handle emergency situations but can still have limitations in terms of specialized treatments.
Emergency Medical Services:
Ambulances: The ambulance service in The Gambia is limited, with delayed response times due to under-resourced emergency services. In many cases, private transportation may be quicker to reach a hospital. Emergency numbers are available, but ambulances are not always reliable.
Emergency Treatment: Major hospitals in Banjul, like Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital, handle most medical emergencies. However, for serious health issues or surgeries, medical evacuation to nearby countries like Senegal or further afield (e.g., Europe) may be required.
Common Health Risks:
Malaria: Malaria is endemic in The Gambia and poses a significant risk. Antimalarial medications, such as Malarone or doxycycline, should be taken, and measures to avoid mosquito bites (like using insect repellent and bed nets) are essential. Malaria can be life-threatening if untreated, so early diagnosis and treatment are crucial.
Yellow Fever: The yellow fever vaccine is mandatory for travelers entering The Gambia. Proof of vaccination is required at the point of entry, and it’s important to carry an International Certificate of Vaccination.
Other Infectious Diseases: Risks of other diseases like typhoid, hepatitis A, cholera, and meningitis are present, particularly in rural areas with poor sanitation and water quality. Vaccinations and preventive measures like boiling water or drinking bottled water are strongly recommended.
Medication Availability:
Pharmacies: Pharmacies are available in urban areas, but the availability of medications, especially specialized ones, can be limited. Counterfeit medications can also be an issue, so it is important to purchase from reputable sources. It is recommended to bring a personal supply of necessary medications when traveling.
Medical Evacuation:
Given the limitations in healthcare, particularly for complex emergencies or surgeries, travelers should have comprehensive health insurance that covers medical evacuation. In the event of a severe health issue, evacuation to Dakar (Senegal) or even Europe may be necessary. Costs for medical evacuation can be extremely high, so insurance is crucial.
FAQs for visiting Gambia
You can find the following embassies in Gambia for the US and UK:
U.S. Embassy Banjul
92 Kairaba Avenue,
Fajara,
The Gambia
Telephone: +220 439 2856 or +220 437 6169 ext. 213
Emergency telephone: +220 437 5270
Email: [email protected]
British High Commission Banjul
48 Atlantic Road,
Fajara,
PO Box 507 ,
Banjul,
The Gambia
Telephone: +220 449 4508
Telephone: +220 449 5134 or +220 449 5133
Email: [email protected]
The visa requirements for visiting Gambia depend on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Here’s a breakdown of the main options:
Visa Exemptions:
Citizens of ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) member countries do not require a visa to enter The Gambia. This includes countries like Nigeria, Senegal, Ghana, and Sierra Leone.
Citizens of some countries, including the UK, the US, and the EU, do not require a visa for short stays (typically up to 90 days) for tourism or business purposes.
Visa on Arrival:
For travelers who are not from visa-exempt countries, Visa on Arrival is available at Banjul International Airport. However, it’s always recommended to check with the Gambian embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information regarding eligibility for Visa on Arrival. You may be required to provide supporting documents, such as proof of accommodation and return flight details.
E-Visa:
The Gambia currently does not have an official e-Visa system in place. However, some third-party services may claim to offer online visa processing, but it is safer to go through official Gambian diplomatic missions for accurate visa information.
Traditional Visa:
If you are not from a visa-exempt country or unsure about the Visa on Arrival option, you can apply for a traditional visa through a Gambian embassy or consulate before traveling. Documents required typically include:
- A completed visa application form
- A valid passport (with at least six months remaining)
- Two passport-sized photos
- Proof of onward or return travel
- A visa fee
- Proof of accommodation
Extensions:
If you plan to stay longer than the allowed visa-free period or the time granted on your visa, you can apply for a visa extension at the Department of Immigration in Banjul.
The Gambia has not experienced significant terrorist attacks within its borders in recent years, but concerns around terrorism financing and international extremist connections persist.
A prominent case highlighting The Gambia's vulnerabilities to global terrorism involved Mohammad Bazzi, a Gambian national with close ties to Hezbollah and former dictator Yahya Jammeh. In 2024, Bazzi pleaded guilty in a U.S. court to charges of financing Hezbollah, one of the most well-known terrorist organizations in the world. He was involved in illegal financial activities, including funneling money to Hezbollah through complex schemes involving businesses and property.
Bazzi’s financial networks extended beyond The Gambia, with ties to countries like Lebanon, Belgium, and the U.S., showing how international terrorist groups can exploit financial loopholes in smaller nations. This case exposed the broader risks facing The Gambia from international terrorism financing networks, despite the absence of direct terrorist attacks within the country.
The Gambia’s role in global terrorism financing underscores a growing concern about the potential for exploitation by transnational terrorist networks in West Africa. Although the country itself remains relatively stable, its geographic proximity to unstable regions like Mali and Senegal's Casamance region, where insurgent and extremist activities are more common, presents an ongoing security challenge. Additionally, regional instability can create pathways for the recruitment and financial support of terrorist organizations, even in countries like The Gambia that have not faced major attacks.
To mitigate these risks, The Gambia continues to cooperate with international partners, including the United States, to strengthen its counterterrorism and anti-money laundering efforts. This collaboration is essential to disrupt terrorist financing and prevent the country from becoming a hub for international terrorist operations.
In summary, while The Gambia has avoided direct terrorist attacks, the case of Mohammad Bazzi and the country's vulnerabilities to international financial networks show that it remains susceptible to terrorism-related financial crimes. Close cooperation with international agencies will be key to preventing future risks from escalating.
Before visiting Gambia, it's essential to ensure you're up to date on several vaccinations and immunizations to protect against potential health risks. Here are the recommended vaccines:
Yellow Fever (Mandatory):
Yellow fever vaccination is required for entry into The Gambia. You must carry an International Certificate of Vaccination as proof. This is essential due to the risk of yellow fever in the region.
Routine Vaccinations: Make sure you're up to date on standard vaccines, including:
- Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
- Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTP)
- Polio
- Varicella (Chickenpox)
- Influenza
Malaria: Malaria is widespread in the Gambia, and while there is no vaccine available, taking antimalarial medication is crucial for preventing infection. Both locals and visitors are at a high risk of contracting malaria, especially in rural regions and during the rainy season.
Hepatitis A: This is recommended for all travelers, as you can contract Hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Gambia.
Hepatitis B: If you plan to have close contact with local residents or engage in activities that may expose you to bodily fluids, such as healthcare work, this vaccine is recommended.
Typhoid: Particularly advised if you're traveling to rural areas or eating outside of major tourist hubs where food hygiene may be less regulated.
Rabies: While rabies is rare in urban areas, it can pose a risk in rural regions, particularly if you plan to work with animals or participate in outdoor activities that may bring you into contact with stray animals, bats, or wildlife. Vaccination is recommended for long-term travelers or those who will be engaging in activities with higher exposure risks.
It is strongly advised to consult a healthcare provider or visit a travel clinic at least 4–6 weeks before traveling to The Gambia. This allows sufficient time to receive any required vaccinations and get personalized health advice based on your medical history and travel plans. It also ensures that you have enough time to complete any necessary vaccine series and obtain preventive medications.
Public Transportation in Gambia:
Public transportation in The Gambia is fairly limited, particularly outside of urban areas. Here’s an overview of the main options available:
Taxis:
Taxis are the most common form of public transportation in urban areas like Banjul and Serrekunda.
There are two main types of taxis: standard taxis, which can be hired privately, and shared taxis, where multiple passengers share the ride along fixed routes. Fares should be agreed upon before starting the trip, as most taxis don’t use meters.
Green taxis, typically used by tourists, are available in resort areas and are more expensive than local taxis, but provide a more comfortable and secure service.
Minibuses (Gele-Gele):
Minibuses, also called "gele-gele", are widely used for longer distances between towns and for travel within cities. They are the most affordable option but can be crowded and are often poorly maintained.
These minibuses operate on fixed routes, and passengers can hop on or off at various stops along the way.
Buses:
Public buses are available but are less common and tend to be used mainly by locals. The buses can be slow and uncomfortable due to overcrowding and traffic.
Ferries:
Ferries are important for crossing the River Gambia, particularly on the Banjul–Barra route. The ferry system is often crowded, and schedules can be irregular. Travelers should be prepared for delays.
Driving in The Gambia:
If you plan to drive in The Gambia, here’s what you need to know:
Driving License:
Visitors can drive in The Gambia using an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a valid foreign driving license for short stays (up to 90 days).
If you plan to stay longer, you may need to obtain a Gambian driving license, which can be arranged through local authorities.
Road Conditions:
Roads in urban areas like Banjul and the major highways connecting cities are generally in decent condition, but rural roads can be in poor shape, particularly during the rainy season when roads become muddy and difficult to navigate.
Many roads are unpaved and may require a four-wheel-drive vehicle in more remote areas.
Traffic Rules:
Driving is on the right-hand side of the road.
Road signage and traffic enforcement are limited, and driving standards may be less regulated than in other countries. Defensive driving is essential as local driving habits can be erratic.
Fuel Availability:
Gas stations are available in urban areas but may be sparse in more remote regions, so it’s advisable to refuel before embarking on longer journeys.
In summary, public transportation in The Gambia is functional but can be uncomfortable and unreliable. Taxis and minibuses are the most common forms of transport, while driving with an international license is possible, though it requires caution, especially outside urban areas.
Our closest office
For any enquiries about our security services in Gambia, please contact our London office and our team will assist you.
Intelligent Protection International
330 High Holborn
WC1V 7QT
London
United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 207 4566740
Email: [email protected]
Disclaimer
You are responsible for your own safety abroad and for making the decision to travel. The information contained in this Travel Advice for Gambia is provided for information only.
Whilst care is taken to ensure that this country brief is as up-to-date and accurate as possible, it is provided on an “as is” basis without any representation or endorsement made and without warranty of any kind, express or implied. Intelligent Protection International Limited does not assume responsibility and shall not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.