Gambia Holidays

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Beaches | Hotels | Food & drink | Nightlife | Events | Things to do | Weather | Important information | Reviews |

What are the best beaches in The Gambia?

It’s known as the Smiling Coast for two reasons - firstly because the ocean gives way to a large river that curves into the land, and secondly, because everyone wears a big grin on beach holidays to The Gambia! These are our favourite places to take in the unique ocean and river views:

What are the top hotels in The Gambia?

The Serrekunda area is the most popular with visitors due to its buzzing urban life, while further along the coast you’ll find pockets of peace in nature. We think you’ll love these hotels whichever way you’d like to go. Here are a few of our faves:

What’s the food like in The Gambia?

The complex and rich flavours of Gambian dishes often come from the variety of sauces and rubs they like to use. You’ll also see baobab juice everywhere, something we can only get in powdered form at home, so make sure to try it fresh! When it comes to food though, these dishes are sure to tickle your tastebuds:

The coastal area is packed with excellent international restaurants, but we also love to chow down on some local favourites at these eateries:

Where's the best nightlife in The Gambia?

If you book an All Inclusive holiday to The Gambia, you’ll be treated to fab evening entertainment wherever you stay. Outside of hotels, The Senegambian Strip is the liveliest place to be at night and is best experienced by taking a stroll and following the music. New bars and clubs spring up (and change names!) all the time, but these are some longstanding favourites in the Kololi area:

What events can I go to in The Gambia?

Traditional drumming and dances animate the streets throughout the year, so you’re sure to catch something even on a last minute holiday to The Gambia. If you like to know what to expect though, then try planning your visit around one of these fun annual events:

Things to do in The Gambia

See a total knockout

If you get the chance to see local wrestling on your Gambian holidays, take it! It takes true skill to battle it out on the sands with this much style. You can catch a show at Sanyang Beach on Sundays or look out for big matches at the Independence Stadium.

Get lost in nature

Nature-lovers will already know that The Gambia is one of Chris Packham’s top spots in the world for birding. Take a tour with his favourite guide Malick Suso, who’ll lead you up the magical river that hundreds of exotic birds call home.

Make a meal of it

If you’re keen to take home a skill from your holidays in The Gambia, you should head to the Yabouy Home Cooking centre. You’ll make memories with local legend Ida, donning traditional dress as you visit the vibrant Tanji fish market, then learn to prepare a Gambian feast with your catch of the day!

Get snap happy

The Kachikally Crocodile Pond & Museum is a truly unique experience that the kids will love, too. The crocodiles live in the nature park around a pool used for fertility rituals and are tame enough for you to get up close. If you’re not quite feeling brave enough, you can still look from a distance and learn more about the area at the museum!

What's the weather like in The Gambia?

If you’re looking to escape the winter chill on your 2022 holiday, then The Gambia is perfect for a big dose of sunshine and warm seas. Due to the sub-tropical climate, the ideal time to visit is the dry season between November and May. The temperature remains high from June to October, but increased humidity and heavy rainfall are common.

Important Information about travelling to The Gambia

How long does it take to fly to The Gambia?

Flights from the UK to The Gambia take around five and a half hours.

What’s the time difference between the UK and The Gambia?

There’s no time difference between the UK and The Gambia.

What currency do they use in The Gambia?

The official language in The Gambia is English, though residents speak many local languages such as Mandinka and Pulaar.

What language do they speak in The Gambia?

The official language of The Gambia is Spanish.

Will Covid-19 affect my holiday to The Gambia?

We are currently closely following the Covid-19 situation and how it affects travel. You can find out the most up to date information about travel to The Gambia on the FCDO website.

Do I need any vaccinations to visit The Gambia?

Please check with your healthcare provider for all up to date vaccination advice before booking your holiday.

Do I need a visa to travel to The Gambia?

You don’t need a visa to travel to The Gambia for under 28 days.

Customer reviews

At On the Beach, we’ve sent many satisfied customers to The Gambia for a bit of sunshine. But don't just take our word for it, read some of their 5-star reviews below.