The Gambia
Gambia travel guide for Americans
US citizens need a visa (e‑visa or visa on arrival) for Gambia; apply before travel unless you plan to get a 90‑day visa on arrival at Banjul airport. Change if you hold a valid multiple‑entry Schengen visa (check).
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GuideThe Gambia
Key facts
- Visa required
- e‑visa or visa on arrival (90 days)
- Visa feecheck
- USD 30 (e‑visa) or USD 35 (on arrival)
- Currencycheck
- Gambian dalasi (≈ 0.014 USD)
- Plug type
- Type G, 230 V 50 Hz
- Tipping
- 10 % in restaurants, guides and drivers
Quick answer
Apply for a Gambian e‑visa before you travel (recommended) or obtain a visa on arrival at Banjul International Airport for a stay up to 90 days. No visa‑free entry for US passports.
Entry requirements for US citizens
Passport: valid at least 6 months beyond intended departure.
Visa: e‑visa (online) or visa on arrival (pay USD 35, 90‑day stay).
Proof of onward travel or sufficient funds may be requested.
US embassy contact
The United States does not have an embassy in The Gambia. The nearest US diplomatic mission is the Embassy in Dakar, Senegal.
Address: 2 Avenue Cheikh Anta Diop, Dakar, Senegal.
Phone: +221 33 825 20 00 (check).
Emergency consular assistance: +1 888‑407‑4747 (US State Department).
Typical costs in USD
Accommodation: $50‑$150 per night for mid‑range hotels on the Atlantic coast.
Meals: $5‑$15 per meal at local restaurants.
Transport: $0.30 per km for hired car, $2‑$5 for short taxi rides.
Visa fee: $30‑$35 as noted above.
Flights from the US
Main gateway: Banjul International Airport (BJL).
Typical routing: US East Coast → Istanbul → Banjul (≈ 13‑15 h total travel time, plus layover).
Check the flight‑time planner tool for exact times from your city.
Electric plugs and voltage
Plug type G (UK three‑pin). Voltage 230 V, frequency 50 Hz. Bring a UK‑style adapter.
Tipping etiquette
Restaurants: 10 % of the bill (often added to the check).
Guides and drivers: 10 % of the service fee or $5‑$10 per day.
Hotels: small tip for housekeeping ($1‑$2 per night).
Emergency numbers
Police: 117
Ambulance: 116
Fire: 118
- All numbers are toll‑free within The Gambia.
Questions people ask
Do Americans need a visa for Gambia?
Yes. US passport holders must obtain a visa, either by applying online for an e‑visa before travel or by paying USD 35 for a visa on arrival at Banjul airport for up to 90 days.
How much does a trip to Gambia cost in USD?
A typical 5‑night stay on the Atlantic coast costs roughly $800‑$1,200 total, covering accommodation ($250‑$750), meals ($150‑$300), transport ($100‑$200) and a $30‑$35 visa fee.
Where is the nearest United States embassy in Gambia?
The US does not have an embassy in The Gambia; the nearest mission is the US Embassy in Dakar, Senegal. Consular emergencies can be reported to the State Department hotline at +1 888‑407‑4747.
What plug type does Gambia use?
Gambia uses Type G plugs (UK three‑pin) with 230 V, 50 Hz electricity.
Is tipping expected in Gambia?
Yes. Aim for 10 % in restaurants, and similar amounts for guides, drivers and hotel staff.
Verify with the official source
Draft, not field-verified
Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
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