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Official Name: Republic of the Gambia
Capital: Banjul
Official Languages: Arabic
National Languages: Mandinka, Fula, Wolof, Serer, Jola
Independence: (from the UK) 18 February 1965
Population: 1,882,450 (2013 census)
Currency: Dalasi
Time Zone: GMT+0
Get travel insurance to The Gambia from Direct Travel Insurance. We offer low cost and high quality travel insurance to The Gambia and most of the world.
The Gambia is the smallest mainland country in Africa. It is surrounded by Senegal, with a small coastline to the Atlantic Ocean. The Gambia River flows through the centre of the country. The capital city of Banjul is on St Mary’s Island, and is populated by less than 35,000 people.
The Gambian economy is dominated by tourism, farming, and fishing.
If you are travelling to The Gambia for less than a month, you will not need a visa, and you will be given a 28 day stamp in your passport. Your passport should be valid for the duration of your stay.
Malaria is present in all areas of The Gambia year-round. You are advised to visit your GP four to six weeks before you travel to ensure that any necessary vaccinations or medication are up to date and available. Medical facilities in The Gambia are limited, and some medicines available on prescription or over the counter in the UK are banned under Gambian drug laws. If you need to take any medication with you when you travel, you should take a copy of your prescription, and keep any medication in its original packaging. If you are unsure of the customs procedures, please check with the Gambian Embassy before you travel.
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office do not currently advise against travel to The Gambia. This information can be updated at any time, and can be checked via the FCDO website at https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/gambia. Direct Travel Insurance are unable to offer cover for any areas or country to which the FCDO advises against travel.