HEALTH & SAFETY

Health and safety in The Gambia

Preparing properly before you travel is one of the best ways to enjoy a relaxed holiday in The Gambia.

Health advice, entry requirements and local conditions can change, so we always recommend checking the latest official travel advice before you leave, arranging appropriate travel insurance and seeking professional health advice in plenty of time before your holiday.

This page provides practical guidance to help you prepare, together with links to more detailed information elsewhere on our website.

Is The Gambia safe to visit?

No holiday destination can be guaranteed to be completely risk-free, and conditions can change. The best source for current information is the latest UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office travel advice.

As you would when travelling anywhere, take sensible precautions with your belongings, be aware of your surroundings and follow advice from local authorities, your hotel and our resort team.

Standards and regulations in The Gambia can also differ from those visitors are used to in the UK. We work with our accommodation and local partners to identify areas where health and safety can be improved, but travellers should remain aware that local infrastructure and standards may be different.

Travel insurance for The Gambia

We strongly recommend arranging appropriate travel insurance before travelling.

Your policy should be suitable for your individual circumstances and cover the activities you plan to take part in. Pay particular attention to medical treatment, emergency assistance, cancellation and curtailment.

If you're planning activities such as diving, canoeing or other adventurous experiences, check that these are included within your policy rather than assuming standard cover will apply.

Read more about holiday insurance ›

Vaccinations, malaria and travel health

Health recommendations can change, so we don't recommend relying on old vaccination lists or advice from previous visits.

Seek advice from an appropriate healthcare professional or recognised travel-health service well before departure. They can advise you based on your health, itinerary, length of stay and the latest recommendations for The Gambia.

Current official health guidance identifies mosquito-borne illnesses, including malaria, among the health risks travellers should consider, so getting personalised advice before travelling is important.

We've also put together a dedicated guide to medication and health preparation for The Gambia.

Travelling with medication

Rules governing medicines can differ between countries, and medication that is commonly prescribed or available in the UK may be regulated differently elsewhere.

If you take regular prescription medication, check the current requirements before travelling. Keep medicines in their original packaging and carry supporting documentation where appropriate.

You should also make sure you have enough medication for your holiday and consider how you would manage an unexpected delay to your return journey.

See our Gambia medication guide for further information and links to authoritative health advice.

Protecting yourself from mosquitoes

Mosquito bite prevention is an important part of preparing for a Gambia holiday.

Follow the advice given by your healthcare professional. Sensible measures can include using an appropriate insect repellent, covering exposed skin where practical and making use of mosquito screens, nets or air-conditioned accommodation where available.

Advice on malaria prevention and other mosquito-borne illnesses should always be based on current professional guidance rather than previous experience of travelling to the destination.

Sun and heat

The Gambia's warm climate is one of the reasons people love visiting, particularly during the UK winter, but strong sunshine and high temperatures mean it's sensible to take care.

• Use appropriate high-factor sun protection.
• Drink water regularly, particularly during excursions and outdoor activities.
• Consider taking a break from direct sunshine during the hottest part of the day.
• Wear a hat and suitable clothing when spending long periods outside.
• Take extra care during your first few days while you adjust to the heat.

If you're planning when to travel, our Gambia weather guide explains the climate and seasonal differences throughout the year.

Looking after your belongings

As in many holiday destinations, petty theft can occur, so taking straightforward precautions is sensible.

• Avoid carrying unnecessary amounts of cash or valuables.
• Use hotel security facilities where available.
• Keep passports and important documents secure.
• Take particular care with valuables in crowded places and markets.
• Avoid leaving valuables unattended on the beach or in vehicles.
• Keep separate copies of important travel documents.

If you're heading out in the evening, use sensible judgement and ask your hotel or our local team for advice if you're unfamiliar with an area.

Getting around safely

Road conditions, driving standards and lighting can differ considerably from those in the UK, particularly away from the main resort areas.

Most visitors use taxis, organised transfers and excursions rather than driving themselves. When taking a taxi, agree your fare before travelling and ask your hotel or our resort team for advice if you're unsure about local transport.

For more practical information, read our guide to getting around The Gambia.

Excursions and activities

Exploring beyond your hotel can be one of the highlights of a Gambia holiday, whether you're visiting local communities, watching wildlife, travelling by river or exploring neighbouring areas.

For organised activities, listen to the safety briefing provided, use any protective equipment supplied and make the operator aware of relevant medical conditions or mobility requirements.

It's also worth checking that your travel insurance covers any particular activities you intend to undertake.

Explore excursions and experiences in The Gambia ›

Respecting local customs and laws

The Gambia has its own laws, traditions and social customs, and visitors should be respectful of them throughout their stay.

Be particularly considerate when visiting local communities, religious sites and places away from the principal tourist areas. If you're unsure about appropriate behaviour, photography or clothing, ask your guide, hotel or our resort team.

Local laws may also differ significantly from UK law, so always check the latest official travel advice before departure.

If you need help while you're away

If something goes wrong during your holiday, seek assistance promptly rather than waiting until you return home.

Your travel documentation and digital property guide contain useful destination and holiday information. Depending on the situation, assistance may also be available from your hotel, our local representatives, your travel insurer or the appropriate local authorities.

If you have questions before travelling, our team is also happy to help with the practical aspects of your holiday.

Frequently asked questions

Is The Gambia safe for a holiday?

Many people travel to The Gambia for holidays each year, but no destination can be described as completely risk-free. Check the latest official UK travel advice before departure and follow sensible precautions while you're away.

Do I need vaccinations for The Gambia?

Vaccination recommendations and entry requirements can change and can also depend on your individual circumstances and travel itinerary. Seek current advice from an appropriate healthcare professional or recognised travel-health service before travelling.

Do I need malaria tablets for The Gambia?

Malaria is among the health risks identified in current official guidance for The Gambia. Speak to a healthcare professional about appropriate malaria prevention for your individual circumstances rather than relying on general or historic advice.

Do I need travel insurance for The Gambia?

We strongly recommend appropriate travel insurance. Make sure the policy meets your individual needs and covers medical treatment, emergency assistance and any activities you intend to take part in.

Can I take prescription medication to The Gambia?

Some medicines can be regulated differently from the UK. Check the current requirements for your medication before departure and carry medicines in their original packaging with supporting documentation where appropriate.

Who should I contact if I need help during my holiday?

The appropriate contact will depend on the situation. Your hotel, our local representatives, your travel insurer and local authorities may all be relevant. Your digital travel documentation contains additional information to keep with you during your stay.