The Gambia is one of the easiest winter-sun escapes from the UK: about six hours’ flight, no time difference in winter and dry, sunny weather from November to May. The Atlantic coast has relaxed resorts and long beaches, while the Gambia River and its creeks are among the best birdwatching areas in Africa.
This guide covers where to stay, what to do and when to go. For our hand-picked trips, see our The Gambia holidays page.
The quick answer
- For beaches and restaurants, stay at Kololi or Kotu.
- For quieter beaches and eco-lodges, head to the south coast.
- For birds and village life, add a night or two upriver.
- Combine with Senegal for a two-country trip.
- Go between November and May.
Where to stay
| Area | Best for | What it feels like |
|---|---|---|
| Kololi & Kotu | Beach and restaurants | The main resort strip near Bijilo forest park |
| Cape Point & Bakau | Quieter beaches | Fishing-village feel near Banjul |
| South coast | Eco-lodges, empty beaches | Tanji, Sanyang and Kartong |
| Upriver | Birds, wildlife | River lodges, chimpanzee islands, creeks |
Most visitors stay on the coast and add an overnight trip upriver. Our tours combine The Gambia with Senegal’s Sine-Saloum delta and Dakar.
Things to do
- Birdwatching — more than 500 species recorded, from the coast to the river creeks.
- River trips — boats through mangrove creeks and the River Gambia National Park.
- Kunta Kinteh Island — a UNESCO World Heritage Site telling the story of the transatlantic slave trade.
- Kachikally crocodile pool — in Bakau.
- Abuko Nature Reserve — monkeys and birds close to the coast.
- Banjul — the Albert Market and Arch 22.
When to go
The dry season, November to May, is best: sunny, 30–33°C on the coast, and prime birdwatching season. July to September is the rainy season, hot and humid but lush.
Getting there and entry
Direct flights from London Gatwick and Manchester take about 6 hours, mainly in winter, and there’s no time difference with the UK in winter. Visa rules for UK visitors can change, and a yellow fever certificate may be required. Check the FCDO travel advice for The Gambia before you go.
Money and local costs
The Gambian dalasi is the currency; cards work in larger hotels, but carry cash for markets, tips and excursions. Malaria is present, so antimalarials are recommended.
Food and drink
Try domoda (groundnut stew), benachin (the one-pot rice dish), grilled ladyfish and fresh juices made from baobab and wonjo (hibiscus).
Ask us about winter sun in The Gambia →
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit The Gambia?
November to May, the dry season, which is also the best time for birdwatching.
How long is the flight?
About 6 hours direct from London Gatwick or Manchester, with no time difference in winter.
Is The Gambia good for birdwatching?
Yes — one of Africa’s best destinations, with more than 500 species in a small area.
Can I combine The Gambia with Senegal?
Yes, our tours combine both countries.
Do I need malaria tablets?
Yes, antimalarials are recommended. See a travel clinic before you go.
Planning a Gambia holiday?
Tell us whether you want pure beach time or birds and the river too, and we will plan it.
