Book cheap flights to Gambia

The Gambia’s dry summer season falls between November and February – the optimal time to spot wildlife and different bird species. The capital city of Banjul plays host to a number of colourful festivals during January, with traditional music, art and dance filling the city streets with vibrant Gambian culture. The shoulder months of October and March-May offer great discounts on tours and accommodation, while days are still pleasantly warm with minimal rain. To avoid the crowds and maximise on dirt-cheap specials, the rainy season (between June and September) is the best time to go – just be aware that many places close during this time.

South African passport holders do require a visa when travelling to the Gambia. Leave enough time for visa processing. Ensure your passport has two blank pages for entry stamps and a validity of at least six months.

The Gambian Embassy is situated in Pretoria.

Address: Brookfield Office Park, 261 Middlel Street, Nieuw Muckleneuk, 0181

Phone: ( 27) 012 004 0374

The South African Honorary Consulate is located in Banjul:

23 Sait Matty Road, Bakau, Banjul

Tel: ( 220) 4462 555 / 755

Email: saconsul@premiumtv.gm

The Gambia is a spectacular holiday destination, but be vigilant of your surroundings and keep your wits about you to avoid petty theft and scams.

Avoid engaging in small talk with locals that seem to be harassing you. There are a number of popular scams to be aware of, especially hardship stories of unemployment, as well as offering marijuana to tourists with police waiting in the wings for a hefty bribe.

Respect the local customs and ask before taking a photo of someone you don’t know. Avoid discussing politics as critical opinions against the government are considered criminal.

When swimming, beware of strong currents at the beach and heed the flag warnings.

To get around, stick to green tourist cabs (more expensive, but safer); yellow ones are geared for the locals and can be hazardous. When crossing the Gambia River, make use of the Gambia Port Authority’s Banjul-Barra or Yelitenda-Farafenni ferries, as they are a lot safer than privately-operated pirogues, which have been known to sink!

Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required if travelling from an infected area. Malaria and water-borne diseases are rife throughout the year, especially between June and November, so take the necessary precautions and wear insect repellent at all times. You may want to consider being immunised against typhoid, hepatitis A and meningococcus. Avoid uncooked food and stick to bottled water.

A comprehensive travel-insurance policy to cover theft and medical expenses is always recommended.