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 may be issued with a visa on arrival, but visitors should check with the embassy before travel. Tourists on a package tour, or arriving on a charter flight are also able to obtain a visa on arrival.
Americans: United States citizens must have a passport and visa to enter Gambia.
UK nationals: UK nationals must have a passport.
No visa is required (irrespective of the endorsement in passport with national status) for a stay of up to 90 days.
Canadians: Canadians must have a passport and visa to enter Gambia.
Australians: Australians must have a passport but no visa is required to enter Gambia for a stay of up to 90 days.
South Africans: South Africans must have a passport and a visa to enter Gambia.
Irish nationals: Irish nationals must have a passport. No visa is required for a stay of up to 90 days.
New Zealanders: New Zealand nationals must have a passport but no visa is required to enter Gambia for a stay of up to 90 days.
Health
No inoculations are compulsory for entry to The Gambia, but it is recommended that prospective travelers take medical 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 The 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 The 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 is recommended.
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.
