The Gambia, a small country located in West Africa is bounded by Senegal along a narrow Atlantic coastline. Because of this, this hidden gem is known for its beaches. These popular beaches matched with the perfect weather in the Gambia is the ideal place for your summer getaway!

This country is also home to Jufureh (Juffure), the reputed ancestral village of the Kunta Kinte, who is the main fictional character in the well-known novel ‘Roots’ written by Alex Haley.

So, if you’re interested and you want to explore more about this hidden gem in Africa, then you’re in for a great trip! Book a flight, pack your things and get ready for a memorable adventure!

Oops! There’s one problem. Unfortunately, US citizens are required to obtain a visa before entering the Gambia. But don’t worry, we got your back! In this article, we listed down all the information that you might need in case you’re planning to apply for a Gambia Tourist Visa. This will help you know the requirements and all other information that you would lead you to have that visa.

Facts about The Gambia

Language

There are 10 languages spoken in The Gambia. However, English is their official language that is used in schools and public offices.

Currency

Gambian dalasi

Religion

The majority of the Gambians are Muslims, making it up to 90% of the population. The rest are Christians, which is around 9% and 1% of people who still practice traditional beliefs.

Capital

The Gambia’s capital is Banjul which offers access to the country’s beaches.

Main Requirements in Applying for Gambia Tourist Visa

1. A valid passport

2. One passport-sized photo with a white background. (Write your name and passport number at the back and sign; Also, do not staple the picture to the form)

3. Signed and completed application form.

4. Prepaid self-addressed or return envelope (FedEx/UPS or Priority/Express Mail)

5. For minors: Must submit a parental consent if unaccompanied by parents.

Visa Fee for Gambia Tourist Visa:

Regular visa: $100.00

An additional fee of $50 for express service

Mode of payment: Money order only payable to the Embassy of The Gambia

Processing time: For regular services of processing of visa, it takes 5-10 business days. For express services, it takes 1-3 business days only.

Important things to remember

Please make sure that the mailing option includes tracking services so that you can track whether the Embassy has received your application or not.
Do not call the embassy to ask about your application unless you have not received your passport back after 10 business days.
Personal or telephone interview may be required for applying for a visa.
Only the Gambia Embassy in DC and The Gambian Mission at the United Nations in New York City issues Gambian Visa within the US.

Embassy in the United States

Embassy of the Republic of The Gambia
Address: 5630 16th St NW Washington, DC 20011

Contact number:
Tel: +1 202.785.1399
Email: info@gambiaembassydc.org

Office hours:
09:30 AM - 04:00 PM (Mon-Thu)

Frequently Asked Questions on Applying for a Gambia Tourist Visa

1. When should I apply for a visa?

The best time to apply for a Gambian visa is at least a month before your target departure date.

2. Is it safe to travel to The Gambia?

The Gambia is relatively safe for tourists. However, as a traveler, it is still important to be cautious anywhere you go. Tourists are advised to watch out for what they call “Bumsters”. Bumsters are unemployed men who try to fraud tourists into giving them their money. Although most of them are harmless, it is still better to be aware of the surroundings.

3. Should I get travel insurance before my departure?

Getting travel insurance is advisable anywhere you go. That includes the Gambia, although it is not really dangerous in the country, it’s still better to be safe than sorry.

4. How to get there?

Unfortunately, there are no direct flights from the US to the Gambia. You need a connecting flight to go there. The main airport in the Gambia is Banjul International Airport or Yundum International, which is located in Banjul, the country’s capital. Check Skyscanner to see more available flights going to The Gambia.

5. When is the best time to visit The Gambia?

Because of its location, the Gambia is considered a subtropical country having only a dry and wet season. The dry season occurs between November until early June, while the rainy season is between late June until October. So, to fully enjoy your time in the Gambia, it is advisable to visit between November to June, when the weather is cool and the roads are passable. It is also the best time to visit beaches for a perfect sunbathing experience.

6. Will I have a hard time communicating with the locals?

No, not at all. The Gambia’s official language is English, so going around the Gambia won’t be a hassle for tourists since many of them speak English. You don’t need a travel guide or a translation app during your trip, so you can totally enjoy your travel.

7. Why should I visit The Gambia?

If you’re a beach lover and want to have a great experience swimming with your family or friends, The Gambia is the place for you, because of its location which is along the small Atlantic coastline, it is popular for its beaches. Some of the places you shouldn’t miss here are the Kunta Kinteh Island, Kachikally Museum and Crocodile Pool, and Abuko Nature Reserve. The country’s wetland reserve also includes monkeys, leopards, hippos, hyenas and rare birds which will give you the chance to see different animal species.

Aside from all the places that you can explore in the Gambia, it is also safe for tourists to go around the country, making your trip less worrying and fulfilling.

So if the Gambia isn’t on your bucket list yet, then you might be forgetting something. This small West African country deserves a spot on your travel plans.