Climate
Located midway between the Tropic of Cancer and the Equator, The Gambia enjoys virtually uninterrupted sunshine and high daytime temperatures with almost no rainfall from November to June. The average year-round temperature is 30°C.
Currency
The Gambia's currency is the Dalasi, with £1 Sterling buying around 38 Dalasi (May 08).
As with all currencies, the Dalasi rate to the Pound can fluctuate. Dalasi are available in the UK but you will get a better exchange rate in The Gambia.
Please visit www.xe.com to recieve the current rate.
The largest note that is available is the 100D and the smallest is 5D - it is always worth trying to keep your smaller denominations as many stall traders will not have enough small notes for change if you pay with a larger note.
Although some restaurants and hotels in The Gambia do accept credit cards, it is not wise to rely on them. Debit cards are still more restricted. And Solo and Switch cards are not accepted. We recommend taking travellers cheques.
Language
The Gambia is a former British Colony and the official language is English but there are also several tribal languages including Mandinka and Wolof. Educated in English, most Gambians are at least bilingual.
Health and Medication
Although inoculations are not compulsory for entry from the EU, certain medication, including anti-malarial tablets, will be recommended.
Children and pregnant women may require special vaccination procedures. We advise that you take medicines to treat dehydration, small ailments, stomach upsets, insect bites and cuts, along with mosquito repellent and high factor sun creams.
Sexually transmitted diseases (including Aids) are a serious threat to health throughout the world. Please exercise caution when on holiday. Up to date advice can also be found from the World Health Organisation at www.who.int/ith and the Department of Health leaflet (Ref T6) 'Health Advice to Travellers' is available free from your GP, travel agent or by phoning FREE on 0800 555777.
Malaria
The Gambia is just one of many countries where the risk of contracting malaria is very real but this is an avoidable illness provided adequate precautions are taken. Before booking your holiday, we strongly suggest you seek the advice of your GP who will prescribe appropriate anti-malarial medication. It is also advisable to use an effective insect repellent to avoid being bitten and to continue taking the tablets throughout your stay and after your return to the UK. For more information visit www.malariahotspots.co.uk
We strongly suggest you consult your doctor before booking.
Visa
British passport holders on our transfers do not require a visa for entry to Gambia. Passports must be valid for six months from date of entry. For other nationalities please call our office for details or contact the Gambian High Commission - The telephone number in London is 0207 937 6316.
For long stay holidays, travellers must have their passport stamped at the Immigration Office in Banjul every 28 days. Children under 16 years must have their own passport, although children and spouses already included on a family passport can continue to travel on this document until the passport is renewed, however spouses travelling alone must have their own passport.
Home Office Identity and Passport Service Information »
FCO Travel Advice & Know Before You Go Campaign »
Dress Code
Dress code is generally casual in all our hotels, with smart casual wear for the evening. Cool, long-sleeved cotton tops and sun-hats are also recommended as protection from the sun when sightseeing.
Excursions
Excursions are available and can be arranged and paid for locally in the hotels. Fishing equipment is usually readily available to hire.
Time Difference
+0 hours GMT
Electricity
220V, 50Hz 220V. Plugs with two round pins (European standard). Power cuts are frequent due to the lack of power production.
More About The Gambia
For more information about our holidays to The Gambia please visit our website at The Gambia Experience.
