The Gambia

Visitor Information

Climate | Latest Travel Advice | Visas & Immigration | Money | Local Time | Getting Around | Public Holidays | Electrical Power | Travel Insurance

CLIMATE

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.

Climate Chart for Banjul

For today's weather forecast see     CNN - Africa Weather Forecasts

LATEST TRAVEL ADVICE

Foreign & Commonwealth Office (London)
US State Department - Travel Warnings

VISAS & IMMIGRATION

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.

Tourist Offices and Embassies for The Gambia located around the world

MONEY

Official Currency:    100 Bututs=1 dalasi
Current Exchange Rate:    Today's Exchange Rate

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 & BUSINESS HOURS

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

LOCAL TIME

Gambia has the same time as that of GMT.

TRANSPORT & GETTING AROUND

Air:	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.
Self Drive / Car Hire:	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 Other Maps & Atlases for Sale
	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.

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

ELECTRICAL POWER

TRAVEL INSURANCE

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.