Gambia Travel Information
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Getting Around Gambia
Buses
The most common way of travelling in The Gambia for locals is by collective taxis otherwise called "Bush" taxis. These are mainly 7-passenger cars, vans, minibuses and busses. They do not have a single colour and they operate a shared service between both short and long distances. They have a set fare. You should ask for the fare before you board the vehicle. They make several stops on the way to allow passengers to board or disembark.
Taxis
For those wishing to adventure out on their own or in small groups, there are three different taxi services in The Gambia.
Tourist Taxis
These are mostly painted green and have a "tourist taxi" sign on their cars. These taxis are licensed by the Gambia Tourism Authority and are dedicated to serve tourists and other visitors. They are normally parked outside the hotels in the resort areas. They operate on a queue system and have a published tariff for all distances within The Gambia and outside. However, it is recommend you check the tariff with the driver before departure. It is normal to tip these drivers.
Yellow and Green Taxis
These are mainly 4-passenger saloon cars painted in these colours, which run a shared taxi service between short distances or parked at the roadside for individual hire (also called a "town trip").
Collective (Bush) Taxis
The most common way of travelling in The Gambia for locals is by collective taxis otherwise called "Bush" taxis. These are mainly 7-passenger cars, vans, minibuses and busses. They do not have a single colour and they operate a shared service between both short and long distances. They have a set fare. You should ask for the fare before you board the vehicle. They make several stops on the way to allow passengers to board or disembark.
Car Hire
There are several car rental companies in The Gambia. Check with your hotel receptionist, local operator, or at the airport for details. Visitors wishing to rent a self-drive should possess either an International Driving Permit, which is accepted for a period of three months or a UK driving license, which can be used for a short visit.
Driving
Driving in on the right hand side. Roads within the capital are mainly tarred, outside roads can be very bumpy and potholed - thus driving should only be undertaken with great care.
Trains
There are no trains in the Gambia.
Boats
Ferries cross the River Gambia at several points through the country. The most popular route is between Banjul and Barra (on the north bank of the River). Ferries on this route take vehicles and passengers and operate hourly throughout the day. An excellent way to discover the country, Gambia River cruises can be taken along the river, either on short half day trips or longer.
Other
Consider hiring a bicycle and exploring on two-wheels, the are few hills in The Gambia!