Check current flight, airport, entry, border and travel warning information that could affect a trip to The Gambia.
The Gambia Status
WATCH
Travel to The Gambia is operating normally overall, with international flights, Banjul International Airport and land-border crossings functioning. Travellers should nevertheless be aware of current warnings concerning crime, possible unrest and security conditions near the southern border with Senegal’s Casamance region.
Current Travel Conditions
What Travellers Should Know
Visa requirements
Visa requirements vary considerably by nationality. Some visitors can enter without obtaining a visa in advance, while others require a visa before travel or may be eligible for one on arrival. Check the requirements applying specifically to your passport.
Passport requirements
Your passport must meet The Gambia’s entry requirements and remain valid for your stay. Travellers should also make sure they receive the correct immigration stamp when entering the country.
Airport Security Fee
Travellers using Banjul International Airport should be prepared to pay the Airport Security Fee when entering and leaving the country. The current fee is US$20 on arrival and US$20 on departure, with exemptions for certain passengers.
Senegal border
The Gambia is almost entirely surrounded by Senegal, and road crossings between the two countries are an important part of regional travel. Travellers should use official immigration crossings and complete the required immigration procedures.
Casamance border area
Additional caution is recommended near The Gambia’s southern border because of the long-running separatist conflict in Senegal’s Casamance region. Sporadic fighting has occurred near the border in the past.
Overland travel
If travelling close to or across the southern border, stay on established main roads and avoid travelling at night. Security checkpoints are common on major roads throughout The Gambia.
Crime
Petty theft, burglaries and other crime occur, particularly around Banjul and tourist areas. Travellers should avoid displaying valuables and take additional care on isolated beaches and after dark.
Yellow fever
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required when arriving from a country classified as having a risk of yellow fever transmission. Travellers may also need proof of vaccination when continuing from The Gambia to another country.
Healthcare
Medical facilities are limited. Travellers should have appropriate travel insurance, including emergency medical evacuation coverage where possible.
Rainy season
Heavy rainfall between July and September can cause local flooding, including around Banjul. Travellers should check road and weather conditions during periods of heavy rain.
Latest Travel Changes
International travel operating normally
No major nationwide disruption affecting commercial flights, Banjul International Airport or ordinary immigration procedures has been identified.
Current security advisory
The current U.S. travel advisory places The Gambia at Level 2 because of crime, unrest and inadequate health infrastructure.
Southern border caution continues
Official guidance continues to advise additional caution around the southern border because of security conditions in Senegal’s neighbouring Casamance region.
Flooding remains a seasonal concern
The current rainy season can bring heavy rainfall and local flooding. Travellers using roads should check local conditions following periods of intense rain.
Before You Travel
Check your airline, passport and visa requirements before departure because Gambian visa rules vary by nationality.
Keep cash available for the Airport Security Fee because card-payment facilities at Banjul International Airport may not always be available.
If travelling overland between The Gambia and Senegal, use an official border crossing and make sure immigration authorities properly process your entry and departure.
Take additional care when travelling close to the southern border and avoid travelling through the Casamance border area at night.
During the rainy season, check local weather and road conditions because heavy rainfall can cause temporary flooding.
Travel Status is designed to highlight significant changes that could affect a trip. It is not a replacement for official immigration, airline or government advice.