The Gambia: main airports
The Gambia is served by Banjul International Airport, the country's only international airport, the smallest country by area on the African continent.
The country stretches along the Gambia River, offering Atlantic beaches, nature reserves for birdwatching and a long tradition of tourist hospitality, especially for the British and Scandinavian market.
The Gambia: recommended activities
The Gambia: visa and entry requirements
Citizens of ECOWAS countries, the UK, the EU (including Italy), as well as many Commonwealth countries, do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days.
Those who do not fall under the exempt nationalities can obtain a tourist visa on arrival at Banjul Airport, indicatively 100-108 USD, plus a separate security fee of 20 USD both on entry and exit (indicative total 120-145 USD); all payments in cash only (USD or dalasi). A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required, along with a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the departure date.
The Gambia: safety
The Gambia is generally safe for visitors in the coastal tourist areas, with contained violent crime.
The usual precautions apply against pickpocketing and persistent vendors in tourist areas. Always check your country's updated travel advisories.
The Gambia: health situation
Vaccinations against hepatitis A and B, typhoid and yellow fever (mandatory for entry) are generally recommended; antimalarial prophylaxis is strongly advised, as malaria is widespread throughout the territory.
Consult a doctor specialised in travel medicine well ahead of departure. It is advisable to drink only bottled water.
The Gambia: currency, payments and connectivity
The currency is the Gambian dalasi (GMD). The official language is English, alongside several local languages (Mandinka, Wolof, Fula).
Taxis have fares displayed on signs outside the terminal, payable in local currency; also bring 20-30 USD in small denomination cash, as many drivers prefer cash to cards.
