Gambia

In The Gambia, emergency resources may be limited and there may be delays in response. Emergency services may not be available in your language.

Although The Gambia is considered to be one of the safest African countries, petty crime and theft against tourists are increasing. Theft of passports and also valuables from hotel rooms is increasing. Some tourists have had their passports stolen by individuals posing as security at the international airport, therefore, ask to see a photo ID badge. Tourists have been mugged when walking on the beach alone at night. Pickpocketing is common in markets, on ferries, and along the beaches in resort areas.

In general, while travelling, avoid carrying large amounts of cash and keep valuables out of sight. Arrange for alternative ways to access your money since credit cards are not widely accepted and there are very few ATMs. Travellers may have trouble exchanging currency other than British Pounds outside of the resort areas and the city of Banjul.

Road travel may be dangerous due to poor road conditions, poorly lit roads at night and reckless driving. Exercise extreme caution if driving in rural areas or driving during the rainy season when roads may be washed out. Avoid travelling after dark

Politely avoid conversation or help from young unemployed men, referred to as “bumsters” who hustle tourists to try to receive money from them.

Travellers are advised against accepting “free rides” from anyone in a vehicle without a yellow license plate. Public taxis are safe and inexpensive.

Travellers are advised to carry proof of prescriptions for medications as some citizens have been detained for possession of unmarked pills. There are heavy penalties for illegal drugs, and many prescription drugs may be considered illegal in The Gambia.

LGBTI travellers should note that there is no social tolerance for same-sex relations and same-sex relations are illegal. Private citizens have the power to make arrests for offences “against the order of nature” according to the Gambian Criminal Code. Increasingly, there has been homophobic rhetoric from the government.

Travellers should take note of whether they will be travelling during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. During this time, respect the religious practices of the country and avoid eating, drinking and smoking in public between sunrise and sunset. Always dress and behave conservatively to respect local customs.

Seek advice from local authorities as to which beaches are safe.

Tourism infrastructure is limited outside of Banjul.

Taking photographs of airports, embassies and government and military installations is illegal.

Avoid land travel through the Casamance area along the border with southern Senegal. Travellers have been attacked on roads leading north from Ziguinchor to Banjul. There have been reports of armed banditry, and the personal security situation is unpredictable.