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The Gambia FAQ

Is tipping customary in The Gambia?

In established restaurants, bars, hotels and taxis a 10% service charge is usually added to the bill - though feel free to tip more than this for exceptional service. At restaurants where a service charge isn’t included, 10% is the acceptable gratuity. Although tipping at other places isn't mandatory it will be much appreciated given the low wages that Gambian service workers are typically paid. Setting aside a small amount for porters, guides and drivers is also a good idea.

What is the internet access like in The Gambia?

Internet cafes with fairly slow connections can be easily found in Banjul and the resort towns on the Atlantic Coast. Towns further inland will usually have at least one internet cafe with unreliable connectivity.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in The Gambia?

Mobile phone coverage is good in The Gambia’s large cities and towns, but less so in rural areas. The major local telephone companies are Gamcell and Africell. Ensure you have global roaming activated before leaving home if you plan to use your mobile phone.

What are the toilets like in The Gambia?

Fairly clean western-style toilets can generally be found in Banjul and the towns on the Atlantic Coast. In towns and villages further inland, squat/pit toilets are the norm. Carry your own supply of soap and toilet paper as this is rarely provided.

What will it cost for a...?

Sandwich = 50 GMD
Litre of bottled water = 30 GMD
Bottle of Jul Brew = 20 GMD
Shwarma = 50 GMD

Can I drink the water in The Gambia?

Tap water isn't safe to drink in The Gambia. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Instead, bring water purification tablets or ask your leader where filtered water can be found.

Are credit cards accepted widely in The Gambia?

Credit cards are generally only accepted at top-end hotels, if arranged at the beginning of your stay, and at some high-end restaurants. American Express and Visa are the most likely to be accepted, though use sparingly as there is a genuine risk of fraud.

What is ATM access like in The Gambia?

ATMs can be found at banks and urban centres in Banjul and around the Atlantic Coast, though they aren’t always reliable. Due to credit card and bank fraud, caution is advised when using these and some ATMs may only allow withdrawals of fairly small amounts. Be sure to have other payment methods on hand when venturing out of the big cities. Visa is the most accepted card.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling in Ghana?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of your trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in The Gambia?

Jan 1 New Year's Day
Jan 24 Milad un Nabi (Birth of the Prophet Muhammad)
Feb 18 Independence Day
Mar 29 Good Friday
Apr 1 Easter Monday
May 1 Labour Day
Jul 22 Revolution Day
Aug 8 Koriteh (End of Ramadan)
Aug 15 Assumption
Oct 15 Tabaski (Feast of Sacrifice)
Dec 25 Christmas Day

Please note these dates are for 2013. For a current list of public holidays go to: http://www.worldtravelguide.net/gambia/public-holidays

Do I need a visa to travel to The Gambia?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. As a general rule most countries expect that you will have at least 6 months' validity on your passport. On arrival visitors may be asked to present return tickets and evidence of means to cover your intended stay.

We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change - it's important that you check for yourself. Residents from other countries must consult the relevant embassies or your travel agent.

  • THE GAMBIA:
    Australia: No - Not required
    Belgium: Yes - In advance
    Canada: Yes - In advance
    Germany: No - Not required
    Ireland: No - Not required
    Netherlands: Yes - In advance
    New Zealand: No - Not required
    South Africa: Yes - in advance
    Switzerland: Yes - In advance
    UK: No - Not required
    USA: Yes - In advance

    Some nationalities require a visa to visit The Gambia. If you require a visa it must be obtained in advance from an embassy overseas. Citizens of the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland and some other countries do not need a visa for a stay of less than 90 days. Citizens of the USA, Canada, South Africa and some other countries do need a visa and should apply to their nearest Gambian embassy and ensure that the visa is obtained before arrival.

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The Gambia at a glance

  • 6
  • Banjul (population 360,000)
  • 1.8 million
  • English (official), Wolof, Mandinka, Fula
  • (GMT) Casablanca
  • Type G (Irish/British 3-pin), Type C (European 2-pin)
  • +220

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