The Gambia has a subtropical climate
with distinct cool and hot seasons. From November to mid-May, there is
uninterrupted dry weather, with temperature recordings as low as 7°C
(45°F) in Banjul and surrounding areas. Hot humid weather predominates the
rest of the year, with a rainy season from June to October. The temperature may
rise as high as 43.4°C (110°F) during this season but is usually lower
near the sea. The annual rainfall averages about 40 inches.
All nationals except
those of Britain and Commonwealth countries, Belgium, Denmark, Finland,
Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain
and Sweden require visas. Usually issued for 30 days these can be extended free
of charge from the Immigration Office in Banjul. Obtain your visa from your
nearest Gambian Office or representative. Nationals from neighbouring countries
generally do not require a visa. If you are travelling overland through Africa
visas can be obtained from neighbouring countries.
The Gambia has
recently made provisions for those travelling on last minute bookings,
requiring visas. If you are unable to obtain a visa prior to arriving you will
be given a 24 hour visa stamps on arrival and you then have to obtain a visa
from the Immigration Office in Banjul. Please check this as Immigration Rules
and Regulations are subject to change.
Coins comprise 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 bututs and 1 Dalasi. Notes
comprise 5, 10, 25 and 50 Dalasi. In some banks travellers cheques are
exchanged for a higher rate than cash. At the Standard Chartered Bank in
Banjul, UK cheques (up to £50max) will sometimes be cashed provided you
have a cheque guarantee card. American Express Credit Card is accept in most
hotels but it is advisable to arrange this at the start of your
stay.
Banking: Monday to Thursday:
0800-1300 Friday: 0800-1100 Banks are usually closed on
Saturday and Sunday but you can usually change money with a money-changer.
Shopping: Monday to Friday: 0930-1200 and
1430-1800 Saturday: 0900-1200
Governmental
Offices: Monday to Thursday: 0800-1600
Friday: 0800-1230
Gambia International Airlines Services between Banjul, Dakar
(Senegal), Freetown (Siera Leone), and Conakry (Guinea)
River:
The River Gambia is an interesting and dominant feature of the country and is
the major method of transportation. It is possible to take a river three day
trip from Banjul to Basse and return by coach. There are many tourist companies
offering excursions along the river.
Bus:
The bus service is well organised and serves most parts of the
country.
The Africa Guide's recommended Map
Gambia Travel Reference Map (Maps
Worldwide) Published by ITMB Publishing Ltd - Series Africa Format
Folded Map ITMB Publishing specialise in areas that are interesting, exotic
and off the beaten track - wealth of detail - many of the maps are strong on
the physical features of the various countries - there is usually informative
text included with the map, dealing with the history, culture, etc. The maps
are light, practical and should be invaluable for the backpacker, traveller or
tourist
Driving is on the right hand side. and an International Driving Licence is
required. UK Driving Licences are acceptable for short visits. There is a very
limited number of self-drive vehicles for hire. Road conditions can be poor
especially during the rains.
If you need medical care whilst in
the Gambia, it is best to be aware that medical providers may not accept
payment through your insurance company. In these circumstances you will have to
pay in full after your treatment and file a claim with your insurance company
for reimbursement. Therefore you should have access to cash, either from a
credit card or by wire transfer. If you need assistance contact the country's
local embassy or representative.
To be compensated you must be treated
by licensed medical personnel and provide your insurance company with proper
documentation and receipts.
It is advisable to always ensure you have a
comprehensive travel insurance policy which covers you for repatriation to your
home country.
You can check out the following websites which specialise
in long term travellers, adventure travellers, backpackers and workers based
abroad.
Insure and Go - UK Travellers whether it's for a one
off holiday or if you travel many times over the year, if you're off
backpacking before university or you're retired and looking to explore the
world; if you're after winter sports cover or if it's for a business trip, a
wedding abroad or a golfing weekend away, we have a policy at the right price
to ensure you have the peace of mind that you are covered for the unexpected
while you're away.
- UK Travellers Offering a full range of policies,
single trip, young travellers, long stay, annual cover for UK residents. Get
your quote and policy on-line....
Insure My Trip - USA travellers offer 63 different
travel insurance plans from 14 different companies - no other site has such
product depth or comparison features. You can compare each policy giving you
the information you need to make an informed decision about your travel
insurance needs. .
Downunder Insurance - UK - Australia and New Zealand
Travellers offers travel insurance to travellers and residents in the
UK, Australia and New Zealand. Our cover ranges from basic to highly
comprehensive, with affordable policies aimed at backpackers and gap-year
students, but with cover available to travellers and holiday makers up to 55
years of age.
