When to Go to Gambia
To get the most out of your next adventure it makes sense to consider some of the very local factors that combine to make up what you feel is the best time to travel to a destination. Many of these factors are very personal - some people prefer to travel when the weather is not too hot, or sites too crowded - others prefer to travel when a traditional local event is taking place. Taking into account the dates of public holidays can also make sense as these may have an impact on opening times of attractions, shops and restaurants, or might affect public transport or other services. Conversely public holidays can be a time of great local festivities and celebrations providing a feast of local expressionism and culture.
Climate
Located between the Tropic of Cancer and the Equator, The Gambia has a pleasant sub-tropical climate with two distinct seasons. The dry season falls in winter months between November and June resulting from dry savannah winds. During this period there is virtually no rainfall, though evenings can be cool.
The summer months between July and October see the rains, when short dramatic rainstorms characterise the evenings, and humidity is high. Temperatures remain reasonably constant throughout the year with an average mid-day temperature of about 27 degrees C (80F). Night time temperatures drop to between 10-16 degrees C (50-60F).
Seasonality
Enjoying almost constant sunshine, The Gambia can be enjoyed at any time of year as temperatures remain reasonably constant. If you want to see lush green vegetation and tropical flowers in full bloom, then visit during the more humid summer months. For a winter sun destination not far from Europe, then winter months are attractive. As with many other more mainstream beach holiday destinations avoid Christmas, Easter and other popular holiday periods if you want to miss the crowds.
National Holidays
| Date |
Description |
| 20 Mar 08 |
Prophets' Birthday (Muslim) |
| 21 Mar 08 |
Good Friday |
| 24 Mar 08 |
Easter Monday |
| 01 May 08 |
May Day |
| 22 Jul 08 |
Revolution Day |
| 15 Aug 08 |
Assumption Day |
| 01 Oct 08 |
Koriteh Eid Al Fitr (end of Ramadan - Muslim) |
| 08 Dec 08 |
Tobaski Eid Al Adha (Feast of Sacrifice - Muslim) |
| 25 Dec 08 |
Christmas Day |
| 01 Jan 09 |
New Year's Day |
