Located in Western Africa, Gambia is the smallest mainland country in the continent, often referred to as ‘The Smiling Coast’ for its beautiful beaches along the Atlantic Ocean and its friendly locals. The country is also blessed with vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and rich wildlife.

Why Visit

BEACHES

Despite its small size, Gambia offers beautiful golden beaches filled with palm trees and relaxation, with over 80 kilometers of coastline dotted with palm trees, golden sands, and crystal-clear waters that attract both locals and tourists seeking a relaxing getaway. With a year-round sunshine, there is no need to wait for summer to visit. 

WILDLIFE

The Gambia is a great destination for wildlife enthusiasts, as it offers a variety of unique and diverse habitats to explore and see animals such as monkeys, baboons, hyenas, warthogs, and various bird species in their natural environment. The Kiang West National Park is particularly known for its abundant wildlife, including the rare and endangered Western Giant Eland.

PEOPLE

People in Gambia are extremely friendly and hospitable, one of the reasons why the country is known as the “Smiling Coast of Africa“. Gambians are relaxed and laid-back, and love to share their culture.

AFFORDABLE

Gambia is one of the most affordable destinations in West Africa with low-cost accommodation, food, and transport options available for travelers on a budget. Local street food and markets offer delicious and affordable options for those looking to experience the local cuisine without breaking the bank.

Gambia postcards

Located in Western Africa, Gambia is the smallest mainland country in the continent, often referred to as ‘The Smiling Coast’ for its beautiful beaches along the Atlantic Ocean and its friendly locals. The country is also blessed with vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and rich wildlife.

Gambia postcards

Why Visit

BEACHES

Despite its small size, Gambia offers beautiful golden beaches filled with palm trees and relaxation, with over 80 kilometers of coastline dotted with palm trees, golden sands, and crystal-clear waters that attract both locals and tourists seeking a relaxing getaway. With a year-round sunshine, there is no need to wait for summer to visit. 

WILDLIFE

The Gambia is a great destination for wildlife enthusiasts, as it offers a variety of unique and diverse habitats to explore and see animals such as monkeys, baboons, hyenas, warthogs, and various bird species in their natural environment. The Kiang West National Park is particularly known for its abundant wildlife, including the rare and endangered Western Giant Eland.

PEOPLE

People in Gambia are extremely friendly and hospitable, one of the reasons why the country is known as the “Smiling Coast of Africa“. Gambians are relaxed and laid-back, and love to share their culture.

AFFORDABLE

Gambia is one of the most affordable destinations in West Africa with low-cost accommodation, food, and transport options available for travelers on a budget. Local street food and markets offer delicious and affordable options for those looking to experience the local cuisine without breaking the bank.

Bucket list

What to expect

LANGUAGE: English is the official language in Gambia, as it is a former British Colony. There are other tribal languages like Mandinka and Wolof, but the majority of gambias are bilingual. 

ELECTRICITY: In Gambia the standard voltage is 220 V and the frequency is 50 Hz. That’s the standard voltage (220-240V) in the UK, Europe, Australia and most of Asia and Africa; If you are traveling from the US you will need an adaptor. 

CURRENCY: The Gambian Dalasi is the currency of Gambia. Other foreign currencies, like dollars and euros, might be accepted in some tourist places and hotels but won’t be accepted in smaller establishments. The Dalasi isn’t a strong currency and fluctuates constantly, it’s better to exchange your money at the airport, banks or in the black market. There are ATM’s along the coast, but not up-country. Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and restaurants, but cash is recommended. 1 USD equals 50.95 gambian dalasis (as of 2023).

CLIMATE: Gambia has a tropical climate with distinct dry and rainy seasons. The weather is always warm, thanks to its position on the equator. Dry season is from mid-October to May, and rainy season from June to October.

SAFETY: Gambia is relatively safe, as violent crime is pretty much non-existent, but travelers should exercise caution in crowded areas, markets, and on public transportation due to the risk of pickpocketing and other petty crimes. Visitors should also be aware of the potential for scams and should avoid walking alone at night.

How to get around

In Gambia, the main mode of transportation is road transport.

Taxis are available in most towns and cities, and the fares are generally affordable, although prices can vary. Private hire cars and minivans, known locally as “Bush taxis,” are also available and can be a cheaper option than regular taxis but can be less comfortable and less reliable.

Buses are available for travel between major cities and towns, but they are generally less comfortable and less reliable than taxis. Ferries and boats are also available for travel across the River Gambia, which runs through the country.

For those who prefer to travel independently, car rentals are available from major cities, but driving conditions can be challenging due to poor road conditions, lack of road signs, and erratic driving habits of other road users. Finally, bicycles are also available for rent in some areas, and they can be a fun and affordable way to explore the country at a leisurely pace.

Visa Policy

All foreign country citizens can visit the Gambia without both a visa and entry clearance for up to 90 days with exception of: Afghanistan , Argentina , Brazil , China, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Georgia, Guatemala, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Japan, Jordan, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan , Lebanon, Marshall Islands, Mexico, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nicaragua, Oman, Palestine, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Qatar, Saudia Arabia, Thailand, Syria, United States, Uruguay, Vietnam and Yemen.

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