Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Gambia?
What is the Climate Like in Gambia?
How Safe is Gambia?
Visit Janjangbureh and Basse
What Should I Take To Gambia?
Canadian Embassy in Gambia
The Gambia is also called “The Smiling Coast of Africa”. Its beautiful coastline and temperate weather attracts travellers from all corners of the globe.
Gambia is biologically diverse and is home to many national parks with a wide variety of species.
The country was once heavily involved in the slave trade. As a result, there are many monuments and museums that serve to educate travellers about the trade.
Whether you are looking to relax on the beach, seeking an adventure, or dive into a different culture, Gambia has something to offer for every traveller.
Do I Need Vaccines for Gambia?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Gambia. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccines for Gambia: typhoid, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, cholera, yellow fever, rabies, meningitis, and influenza.
| Vaccine | How Disease Spreads |
|---|---|
| Typhoid | Contaminated Food or Water |
| Hepatitis A | Contaminated Food or Water |
| Hepatitis B | Contaminated Body Fluids (Sex, needles, etc.) |
| Cholera | Contaminated Food or Water |
| Yellow Fever | Mosquito-borne |
| Rabies | Infected Animals |
| Meningitis | Usually Airborne Droplets |
| Influenza | Airborne Droplets |
Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required for entry to Gambia.
Malaria is an ongoing threat in Gambia. It is strongly recommended individuals take antimalarial medication before visiting Gambia. Other measures such as repellents and netting will provide more protection.
Gambia is in the ‘meningitis belt’, a section of Africa known for meningitis transmission. Meningitis vaccination is recommended for individuals travelling from December to June.
‘Banjul Belly’ or travellers diarrhea is common and precautions should be taken. Make sure to add a traveller’s diarrhea kit to your packing list.
Visit our vaccinations page to learn more. Travel safely with Passport Health and schedule your appointment today by calling or book online now.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Gambia?
Yes, travelers visiting Gambia must have a visa and and passport valid for the duration of their stay.
| Is A … | A Gambia Entry Requirement? |
|---|---|
| Passport | Yes |
| Passport Validity | Valid at time of entry |
| Blank Passport Pages | One page for entry stamp |
| Visa | Yes |
| Vaccinations | Evidence of yellow fever vaccination required |
Proof of yellow fever vaccination is also required for entry.
Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.
What is the Climate Like in Gambia?
Gambia has a wet and dry season. The wet seasons lasts from June to October. The dry season ranges from November to May.
The months of November to March are cool and involve a sporadic breeze. January to April is characterized by the Harmattan winds that blow from the Indian to the Atlantic Ocean. In Gambia the average daytime temperature is around 26 degrees.
How Safe is Gambia?
There has been a rise in attacks on tourists. It is important to exercise a high degree of caution while travelling in Gambia.
Pickpocketing is very common, as is theft from hotel rooms and vehicles. Men called “bumsters” will often target tourists and offer themselves as tour guides. Beware of “bumsters” as they often demand high payments that are not agreed upon, politely decline any offers.
While in Gambia, monitor local media to avoid demonstrations and other large gatherings which often result in violence.
Many of the roads in Gambia, are narrow, poorly lit, and require a four wheel drive. Avoid driving in rural areas after dark. Police road blocks are common, and you may be asked for identification. Always cooperate with the authorities and stop at all police roadblocks and checkpoints.
For river crossings, wooden pirogues are often used. Do not use wooden pirogues as they lack security measures and are prone to overcrowding.
Visit Janjangbureh and Basse
The town Janjangbureh, known as “Georgetown” is the old ‘second’ city of colonial times. Janjangbureh is one of the oldest river towns in Gambia. It serves as the administrative headquarters for the central river region.
Basse is another a river town with a lively feel. It is one of the major trading centers along the river. Basse is linguistically diverse with languages such as Arabic, French, Wolof, Serer, Mandinka, and English being spoken.
An excursion to Janjangbureh and Basse is ideal for a traveller seeking an adventure.
What Should I Take To Gambia?
Here are some essential items to consider for your trip to Gambia:
- Boots for Bush Treks or Safaris – Nothing is worse than sore feet, make sure you’re protected.
- Cover-Ups – Gambia is a very modest society. Men and women may need to cover up in some areas.
- Long Sleeves, Pants, and Hats – These will help protect you from the sun as well as mosquitos.
- Personal Medical Kit – Some medical supplies can be difficult to find in Gambia. Make sure you bring a fully-stocked first-aid kit with you.
Canadian Embassy in Gambia
Canadian consular services can help travellers with many issues they may face including passport services. There are no consular services in Gambia. For any consular needs, contact the British in-country:
British Embassy in Gambia
48 Atlantic Road,
Fajara,
Banjul, The Gambia
Tel.: 220 4495133
Ready to start your next journey? Call us at or book online now!
