Gambia Travel Guide

Like a long splinter inserted into the side of Africa, just at the bulge, The Gambia is a low, narrow strip of a country that stretches inland from the beautiful West African coast, following the course of the majestic River Gambia. It may be the smallest country in Africa, sandwiched between north and south Senegal, but it is fast becoming noticed by the British package tour trade as a very acceptable alternative to the crowded resorts of Europe.The Gambia's 'discovery' as a tourist destination was aided by the best-selling book, turned television series, 'Roots' by Alex Hayley, detailing the life of his grandfather, allegedly captured in the country and transported to America as a slave.The capital of The Gambia, Banjul, stands on the south side of the magnificent river estuary, a worthy commercial centre that for tourists is little more than the gateway to the hotels spread along the 25 miles (40km) of beautiful sandy coastline. These palm-fringed Atlantic-washed beaches have been dubbed 'the smiling coast', as much for their tropical splendour as for the friendliness of the local people, who welcome visitors whole-heartedly at the nature reserves, quality hotels, and craft markets. All this is just six hours' flying time from London, close to the Equator on the same latitude as Barbados.

---

Gambia Climate and Weather

Sited between the Tropic of Cancer and the Equator, The Gambia enjoys constant sunshine and barely fluctuating high daytime temperatures all year round. The rainy season is between July and October, when humidity is high and short, spectacular rainstorms characterise the evenings. Between November and June there is virtually no rainfall. During winter months evenings can be cool.

---

Gambia Currency

Money: The Gambia's currency is the Dalasi (GMD), which is divided into 100 bututs. Dalasi are difficult to obtain outside of The Gambia but there is a bureau de change at the airport. Currency can also be exchanged at banks in the capital, Banjul, and at some hotels and tourist resorts. Commission tends to be high. It is advisable to bring travellers cheques or cash because only a few places accept credit cards. Street moneychangers give the best rates, but take care not to be conned and make sure you know the current exchange rate before trading with them. Note that currency must be declared on arrival and the export of foreign currency is limited to the amount imported. Travellers cheques are accepted, US dollars and Pounds Sterling are the preferred currency. Some hotels and restaurants accept MasterCard and Visa, but it is unwise to rely on them and a charge may be levied. ATMs are limited to a few areas, and accept Visa but not MasterCard.

Currency Exchange Rates
GMD 1 =	US$ 0.05	£ 0.02	C$ 0.05	A$ 0.05	R 0.33	EUR 0.03	NZ$ 0.07

Note: These currency exchange rates are not updated daily and should be used as a guideline only.

---

Gambia Health Overview

No inoculations are compulsory for entry to The Gambia, but it is recommended that prospective travellers take medical advice at least three weeks before departing for the country. Recommended vaccinations include typhoid, yellow fever, meningitis, Hepatitis A and polio. Malaria is prevalent throughout the year, but the greatest risk is between June and November; travellers should obtain up to date medical advice on the appropriate prophylactics, as some (e.g. chloroquine) are not adequate for The Gambia. Visitors are advised to carry with them preparations for dehydration, stomach upsets, insect bites and cuts, as well as mosquito repellent and sun block, because these are not readily available in The Gambia. Food poisoning is a major risk in The Gambia and travellers are advised to make sure their food and water are safe; drink only bottled water, ensure meat and vegetables are well cooked and avoid unpeeled fruit and vegetables. Emergency medical facilities are of a low standard. Travel insurance is recommended.

---

Gambia Passport & Visa Requirements

Entry requirements for Americans: United States citizens must have a passport and visa to enter Gambia.
Entry requirements for UK nationals:UK nationals must have a valid passport. No visa is required (irrespective of the endorsement in passport with national status) for a stay of up to 90 days.
Entry requirements for Canadians:Canadians must have a passport and visa to enter Gambia.
Entry requirements for Australians:Australians must have a valid passport but no visa is required to enter Gambia for a stay of up to 90 days.
Entry requirements for South Africans:South Africans must have a valid passport and a visa to enter Gambia.
Entry requirements for Irish nationals:Irish nationals must have a valid passport. No visa is required for a stay of up to 90 days.
Entry requirements for New Zealanders:New Zealand nationals must have a valid passport but no visa is required to enter Gambia for a stay of up to 90 days.
Passport/Visa Note:All visitors require a return ticket or proof of onward travel, sufficient funds to cover their stay and all necessary documents for next destination. Those requiring visas to enter Gambia and who are unable to obtain these in their country of origin are issued with a visa on arrival. Tourists on a package tour, or arriving on a charter flight are also able to obtain a visa on arrival. This must be extended within 48 hours of arrival at the Immigration Headquarters in Banjul.

Note: Passport and visa requirements are liable to change at short notice. Travellers are advised to check their entry requirements with their embassy or consulate.

---

Gambia Basics

Time: Local time is GMT.
Electricity: 230 volts, 50Hz. UK-style, square three-pin plugs are standard.
Language: The official language of The Gambia is English, and Gambians are educated in English. There are several tribal languages, but overall the use of English prevails.
Health: No inoculations are compulsory for entry to The Gambia, but it is recommended that prospective travellers take medical advice at least three weeks before departing for the country. Recommended vaccinations include typhoid, yellow fever, meningitis, Hepatitis A and polio. Malaria is prevalent throughout the year, but the greatest risk is between June and November; travellers should obtain up to date medical advice on the appropriate prophylactics, as some (e.g. chloroquine) are not adequate for The Gambia. Visitors are advised to carry with them preparations for dehydration, stomach upsets, insect bites and cuts, as well as mosquito repellent and sun block, because these are not readily available in The Gambia. Food poisoning is a major risk in The Gambia and travellers are advised to make sure their food and water are safe; drink only bottled water, ensure meat and vegetables are well cooked and avoid unpeeled fruit and vegetables. Emergency medical facilities are of a low standard. Travel insurance is recommended.
Tipping: A 10% service charge is usually added to hotel and restaurant bills, and further tipping is discretionary. Generally all services rendered require a small 'cadeau' (gift or tip).
Safety: Crime involving tourists is rare in The Gambia. It is wise, however, not to carry valuables or large sums of money or display them in public. The most popular beaches are manned by tourist police or hotel security officers. Take precautions on more isolated beaches, in unlit areas and in spots away from the 'tourist track'. Driving in The Gambia can be hazardous and many taxis are not roadworthy. Security checkpoints are common on all major roads within the country. Road travel from The Gambia to Casamance in southern Senegal should be avoided because of a recent increase in fighting between rebel factions.
Customs: The Gambia is a Muslim country and therefore it is disrespectful to dress immodestly away from the beach, swimming pools or tourist centres. Religious customs should be respected, particularly during the month of Ramadan when eating, drinking and smoking during daylight hours should be discreet as it is forbidden by the Muslim culture. Homosexuality is illegal. It is prohibited to photograph military institutions.
Business: Business is conducted formally in The Gambia and a formal dress code is to be observed. Punctuality is expected. Business cards are catching on and advisable to bring along. Greetings are important and a formal handshake is the norm for men and women; it is important to acknowledge every member at a meeting. A personal approach to business is favoured and Gambians like to get to know the person with whom they are conducting business. Business hours are generally 8am to 4pm Monday to Friday.
Communications: International Direct Dialling is available and the country code for The Gambia is +220. The outgoing international code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0027 for South Africa). No area codes are required. There are GSM mobile telephone networks, but not all countries have roaming agreements; US mobile phones will not work. Coverage is limited to Banjul and a few other areas. Internet cafes are available in Banjul and the major tourist resorts.
Duty Free: Visitors arriving in the Gambia are permitted to bring the following goods into the country without paying duty: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco; one litre of spirits and one litre of wine or beer; 284ml of perfume; and a still camera and film for personal use.

---

Gambia Airports

Banjul International Airport

Location: The airport is situated 15 miles (24km) from Banjul.
Time: Local time is GMT.
Contacts: Tel: +220 447 2831.
Transfer to the city: Taxis are available to the city centre (30 minutes).
Car rental: Car rental is available at the airport (Hertz).
Facilities: Facilities include a bank, restaurant and bar, post office, duty-free shopping and a tourist help desk.
Parking: There is a well-secured, spacious car park.
Departure tax: None.

---