Gambia Travel Guide

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Passports and Visas

All visitors require a return ticket or proof of onward travel, sufficient funds to cover their stay in Gambia, and all necessary travel documentation for their next destination. Those requiring visas to enter Gambia, AND arriving from countries that do not have an embassy or consulate of Gambia, may be issued with a visa on arrival. Passengers on a package tour, or arriving on a charter flight, are also able to obtain a visa on arrival; but, if required, an extension of stay must be obtained within 48 hours from the Immigration Headquarters in Banjul. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required to enter Gambia, if arriving in the country after leaving or transiting through an infected area. If a yellow fever certificate is required, but missing, the passenger will be vaccinated on arrival. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Americans

US citizens must have a passport that is valid upon arrival in Gambia. A visa is required.

UK Nationals

British citizens must have a passport that is valid upon arrival in Gambia. For British passport holders (irrespective of the endorsement contained therein regarding their national status), no visa is required for a stay of up to 90 days.

Canadians

Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon arrival in Gambia. A visa is required.

Australians

Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid upon arrival in Gambia. No visa is required for a stay of up to 90 days.

South Africans

South African citizens must have a passport that is valid upon arrival in Gambia. A visa is required.

Irish Nationals

Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid upon arrival in Gambia. No visa is required for a stay of up to 90 days.

New Zealanders

New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid upon arrival in Gambia. No visa is required for a stay of up to 90 days.

Healthcare

No inoculations are compulsory for entry to Gambia, but it is recommended that travelers take health advice at least three weeks before departing for the country. Malaria is prevalent throughout the year, but the greatest risk is between June and November; travelers should obtain up to date medical advice on the appropriate prophylactics, as some (e.g. chloroquine) are not adequate for Gambia. Visitors are advised to carry preparations for dehydration, stomach upsets, insect bites and cuts, as well as mosquito repellent and sun block, as these are not readily available in Gambia. Water borne diseases such as Schistosomiasis do occur and travelers should not swim or raft in contaminated fresh water. Travelers should 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 so travel insurance with provision for emergency repatriation is recommended.

Safety

Crime involving tourists is rare in the Gambia and safety is not a major concern. 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 Gambia can be hazardous and many taxis are not roadworthy. Security checkpoints are common on all major roads within the country. Road travel from Gambia to southern Senegal should be avoided due to fighting between rebel factions in the area.