Language

English is the official language of Gambia, but local languages like Jola, Fula, Wolof, Serer, Serahule, Manjago, and Mandinka are also widely used.

Currency

The Gambian dalasi (GMD or D) is equal to 100 bututs. Banknotes are available in denominations of 5, 10, 25, 50, and 100, while coins come in D 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50, and 1 bututs. ATMs can be found in urban areas, some gas stations and banks, especially in Banjul. Travelers are advised to be careful when using credit cards to avoid fraud. Some AMEX travelers’ checks are accepted in Banjul banks, but it's easier to exchange currency at the airport or big hotels.

Time

Gambia is located in Greenwich Mean Time (GMT 0) or UTC (Universal Time Coordinated), at UTC+0.

Electricity

Gambia’s main voltage is 220 to 240 Volts (50 Hz G frequency). Hotels typically have type C or F electrical sockets. Outlets all over Gambia are Type G British, a three-pin rectangular plug with a ground pin and two parallel flat pins. The European-style two-pin is also used. Multi-voltage chargers can be plugged into most outlets, just be sure to bring a surge protector, stabilizer or the appropriate adapter.

Communications

Gambia’s international dialing code is +220. Major towns have good telecommunications systems and mobile connectivity. The reception is also good, especially in urban centers. There are roaming agreements with international phone providers with excellent coverage in Banjul and other tourist-centric towns, but the signal may become patchy in remote and rural areas. Internet access is widely available in hotels and cafés with reliable, but slow connections.

Duty-free

Travelers who are over 18 years of age may import: 200 cigarettes (or 250 grams of tobacco or 50 cigars) without paying customs duty. They may also bring in one liter of beer, wine or spirits.

Tourist Office

Gambia Tourism Authority, Kotu: +220-446-2491 or http://www.visitthegambia.gm

Consulates in Gambia

United States Consulate, Fajara: +220-439-2856
British Consulate, Fajara: +220-449-51-33 or +220-449-51-34
French Consulate, Fajara: +220-449-5487 or +220-449-72-31
German Consulate, Banjul: +220-422-77-83
Italian Consulate, Banjul: +220-437-07-27 or +220-439-47-70
Belgium Consulate, Bakau New Town: +220-449-43-63 or +220-446-11-79
Spanish Consulate, Banjul: +220-446-10-83

Emergency

Fire: 118
Police: 117 or +220-422-4914
Ambulance: 116